German arms exports hit record high in 2024 amid Ukraine conflict
Germany recorded a record amount in arms exports in 2024, reaching a value of CAD 19.3 billion. Ukraine was the main recipient due to the ongoing conflict with Russia.
According to the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs, this data covers the period from January 1 to December 17. As "Stern" magazine noted, this year's arms export value has surpassed the previous record from 2023, when licences were issued for arms exports worth CAD 17.8 billion.
Ukraine as the main recipient
The high level of arms exports is linked to the ongoing war in Ukraine. As the primary recipient of German military equipment, Ukraine received licences to import arms valued at CAD 11.8 billion, representing 62 percent of Germany's total exports this year.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs explained that the German government financed most of this. In comparison, in 2023, licences for arms exports to Ukraine amounted to CAD 6.4 billion.
