Kosovo Security Force receives 12 Mercedes-Benz UNIMOG trucks, Maqedonci says dozens more vehicles will arrive in 2027

The Kosovo Security Force (KSF) has received 12 UNIMOG – Mercedes-Benz 5T, 4×4 military trucks purchased for its use, Defence Minister Ejup Maqedonci announced.

The handover ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Albin Kurti, KSF commander Lieutenant General Bashkim Jashari, German Ambassador to Kosovo Rainer Rudolph, and Daniel Zittel, a representative of Daimler Truck Defence and Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks.

According to Maqedonci’s announcement, cited by “Bota sot”, the new vehicles are part of investments aimed at strengthening the KSF’s transport and logistics capabilities.

The UNIMOG trucks are suited to travel over difficult terrain. They will be used to transport personnel, equipment and supplies, and to resupply units in various operational situations.

The minister said dozens more purchased trucks are expected to arrive in 2027, while the KSF will also receive vehicles donated by Germany.

In 2024, Kosovo received five Rheinmetall KX 8×8 trucks as a German donation. Two more trucks of this model and four UNIMOG – Mercedes-Benz fire trucks are expected to be received in 2027, also as donations.

With the 12 UNIMOG trucks and eight Rheinmetall trucks that arrived this week, the number of vehicles received in these two categories has reached 35, Maqedonci said.

He said the new equipment would improve logistical support and enable KSF units to operate more efficiently.

“Logistics is an essential part of operational readiness,” Maqedonci said, highlighting the need for investment in equipment, infrastructure and personnel capabilities.

The minister expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Kurti, KSF commander Bashkim Jashari, German Ambassador Rainer Rudolph and the representative of the German companies for their cooperation and assistance in developing the KSF’s capabilities.