A European plan has been devised to supply Ukraine with another Patriot air defense system to protect its cities from Russian airstrikes. The plan involves contributions from various European countries, with each providing different components of the system.
The Netherlands is supplying the radar and three missile launchers, while a coalition led by Germany is contributing some interceptor missiles. A mobile fire control center has been promised by an undisclosed source. Additionally, as many as eight countries will provide additional missiles, launchers, and training for Ukrainian personnel to operate the system.
The former Dutch defense minister, Kajsa Ollongren, described the effort as assembling a “Patriot puzzle” to put all the pieces together into a functional air defense system for Ukraine.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has emphasized the urgent need for at least seven Patriot batteries to defend the country from attacks. President Biden has committed to delivering five Western air defense systems to Ukraine.
Romania, Germany, Italy, and the United States have all pledged to provide Patriot systems, with the fifth system likely to be assembled through the piecemeal approach. Allies have been collaborating to gather spare parts from various sources across Europe to construct a complete Patriot system for Ukraine.
