Minister of Defence Yuriko Backes emphasised in an interview with RTL that Luxembourg and its allies stand to glean valuable insights from Ukraine’s cyber warfare experiences.
Recent cyberattacks targeting Luxembourg underscore the urgency of bolstering defences. Drawing on Ukraine’s expertise in combating such threats, the IT Coalition aims to fortify cybersecurity measures. However, paramount to the coalition’s objectives is extending solidarity and support to Ukraine amid the ongoing Russian invasion.
Luxembourg takes on a pivotal role in coordinating efforts within the coalition, evaluating needs, and facilitating procurement processes through the NSPA, NATO’s logistics service agency.
Beyond Luxembourg and Estonia, eight other nations contribute financially, with Backes seeking additional participants to bolster resources. With a budget of €30 million already deemed “substantial,” effective communication infrastructure remains a priority. Ensuring secure channels between command centres and frontline operations is imperative to prevent interception.
In terms of armament, France and Germany lead in artillery shell procurement as part of the so-called “Rammstein Group.” Additionally, Luxembourg collaborates with the other Benelux nations or participates in initiatives like the Czech-led effort to source ammunition outside the EU. The Grand Duchy’s financial contributions extend to supporting training programmes for Ukrainian F-16 pilots.
Acknowledging the protracted nature of the conflict, Luxembourg remains committed to long-term assistance for Ukraine. Minister Backes underscored the enduring resolve of Russia, signalling the necessity for sustained support in the years ahead.
In 2023, Luxembourg purchased 6,000 rounds, worth just over €11 million, for Ukraine. Over the past two years, around €170 million drawn from the national defence budget has gone to Ukraine. Looking ahead, Luxembourg has earmarked a specific budget of at least €70 million for 2024.
The Luxembourg military satellite LUXEOSys is set to provide imaging capabilities to NATO partners by the end of 2025. The satellite will be launched into space by a rocket owned by billionaire Elon Musk’s SpaceX company, either towards the end of 2024 or the beginning of 2025.
Full report by RTL Télé (in Luxembourgish)
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