Germany has reportedly placed a quiet order for over 1,000 Mercedes-Benz Zetros military trucks to bolster Ukraine’s logistics and supply capabilities, according to Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ). This follows the delivery of roughly 340 vehicles since the onset of Russia’s invasion. While official announcements remain scarce, FAZ suggests the procurement is part of Berlin’s ongoing military assistance to Kyiv. Daimler Truck, the manufacturer, declined to comment, and the German government has maintained confidentiality over the program details. The trucks are expected to be delivered gradually as production ramps up. Designed for challenging terrain, the Zetros is a heavy off-road vehicle capable of transporting fuel, supplies, and troops, and can evacuate wounded personnel. The vehicle is operational in over ten countries and can carry a payload of up to 25 tons. The Zetros lineup ranges from 4×2 to 8×8 configurations, powered by up to 510-horsepower Allison 4500SP diesel engines, with Euro III or Euro V standards and manual, automatic, or hybrid transmission options. Recent reports indicate that Germany is updating these trucks for “drone war” scenarios, reflecting evolving battlefield requirements.
