Asger Risom
New deliveries from Israel and Greece or Germany could boost air defense to ten batteries
Ukraine’s air defense capabilities may soon expand with the arrival of two additional Patriot missile systems, potentially raising the country’s total to ten batteries. As reported by tech.wp.pl, the move would mark a significant development in Kyiv’s efforts to counter sustained Russian aerial assaults.
The report, originally cited by The New York Times, indicates that Israel and either Germany or Greece are the likely suppliers. This would represent a shift in policy, particularly from Israel, which has previously refrained from directly arming Ukraine. The batteries could arrive as early as summer 2025.
Patriot Inventory Grows
Ukraine currently operates eight Patriot systems, six of which are fully functional, while two are undergoing maintenance. The inventory includes contributions from the United States (three batteries), Germany (two), a joint German-Dutch unit, a Romanian battery, and a partial system from the Netherlands.
Analysts note that while the Dutch system is incomplete, it still contributes to Ukraine’s layered air defense. The newly expected Israeli system stems from a decision made in April 2023, when Israel announced plans to decommission its Patriots, creating a potential pathway for transfer to Ukraine.
A Proven Defense Against Russian Attacks
The Patriot system, officially known as the MIM-104, is a U.S.-made surface-to-air missile platform developed by Raytheon. It has earned global acclaim for its effectiveness in intercepting enemy aircraft and missiles. Ukrainian military officials consider it one of the most reliable systems currently deployed, with a proven track record even against Russia’s hypersonic Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missile—long touted by Moscow as virtually unstoppable.
Performance varies by configuration. Basic versions reach speeds of Mach 3 (approx. 3,700 km/h), while advanced PAC-2 and PAC-3 MSE variants exceed Mach 5 (approx. 6,100 km/h). These systems can engage targets up to 160 kilometers away and, in the case of PAC-3 MSE, intercept ballistic missiles within a 40-kilometer radius.
With Russia escalating its missile and drone campaigns—most notably the large-scale attack on Kyiv on April 24—the anticipated Patriot reinforcements could play a critical role in defending Ukrainian cities and strategic infrastructure.