Recent reports suggest that the United States has approved the deployment of a second Patriot system in Ukraine in response to Russian airstrikes.
Designed by U.S.-based defense contractor Raytheon, the Patriot missile system is known for its advanced technology, including a powerful mobile radar and launchers capable of intercepting incoming projectiles.
Ukraine is believed to have at least 2 Patriot missile defense systems, with one donated by the U.S. and another contributed jointly by Germany and the Netherlands.
The newly approved Patriot system coming from Poland, previously used to secure returning American troops, will soon be installed on Ukraine’s front line.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed the need for “at least seven Patriot systems” to defend the country’s major cities against the frequent bombardment by Russia.
The scarcity of these systems is evident, with only 14 Patriot systems deployed worldwide, costing approximately $1 billion each.
As Ukraine faces intensified air attacks, the call for more Patriots and other air defense systems continues. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz recently pledged to send additional Patriots along with other defense equipment to Kyiv.
NATO nations are stepping up their support, with commitments from Denmark and Norway to provide 100 interceptor missiles to bolster Ukraine’s defenses.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin will convene a meeting in Brussels to address Ukraine’s ongoing weaponry needs, particularly focusing on air defenses. The gathering will involve senior military and defense officials from over 50 countries to assess the progress of the conflict.