Ukraine needs all the Patriot SAMs available in the world to protect itself from Russian missiles
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Dmytro Kuleba, has asked NATO member states to transfer all available Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine. This took place during separate meetings with the foreign ministers of Poland, Spain, and Denmark. Kuleba emphasized that Ukraine is the only country in the world that has to defend itself against ballistic missile attacks on a daily basis, so the need for Patriot air defense systems is critical.
During the dialogue with Polish Minister Radoslaw Sikorski, the issues of assistance in protecting Ukrainian airspace and violations of Polish airspace by Russian missiles were discussed. Kuleba also asked Spain for additional air defense systems capable of intercepting ballistic missiles. With Danish Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen, they discussed Ukraine’s urgent military needs, including air defense systems and missiles.
Kuleba emphasized the importance of international support in strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities and the importance of joint efforts to achieve peace in Europe. He also expressed gratitude to Denmark for its work on a new military aid package for Ukraine.
American Patriot air defense missile systems have already demonstrated the ability to shoot down Russian ballistic missiles, including the Kinzhal type. Recently, the Russian army has intensified its missile terror against Ukraine, attacking critical infrastructure and civilians, so the need for air defense is urgent.
Despite President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s recent statements that there will be no transfer of Patriot systems from the United States, Ukraine continues to actively call on the international community to strengthen its air defense, particularly after the increased intensity of missile attacks by Russia.
Reference: Ukraine is the largest country in Europe with 600 thousand square kilometers. One Patriot battery covers an area of 50 km to 160 km, depending on the configuration and type of threat. So, to cover a large territory of Ukraine, dozens, if not hundreds of these systems are needed. Currently, Patriot is the only system in the world capable of shooting down ballistic missiles, which was demonstrated in Ukraine. At the same time, these air defense systems are extremely expensive and time-consuming to produce. A queue at the production facility for years to come.
