Ukraine to receive more Patriot air defense systems from the US
The United States plans to deliver Patriot air defense systems, which are deployed in Israel and are currently undergoing major repairs, to Ukraine by the summer, The New York Times reported.
According to the source, in addition to Kiev, negotiations are underway with European Union countries to deliver another Patriot system via Germany or Greece.
The aid is said to be coming amid Russia's increasing rocket attacks on Ukrainian territories. As you know, 12 civilians were killed in an attack on Kiev on April 24.
Ukraine currently has eight Patriot systems, six of which are operational and two are under repair. With the Israeli system due to arrive by the summer and additional equipment expected from Europe, that number could reach 10.
However, experts say the system is a relatively old model. It is estimated that the Patriot complex will cost around $1 billion to build and will require 90 military personnel to maintain it.
For your information, the United States and European countries have a total of more than 180 Patriot systems. 40 of them are located in European countries. The systems being delivered to Ukraine will serve to strengthen the country's air defense capabilities.
Recall that President Zelensky had expressed hope for additional military assistance through mineral cooperation agreements with the United States. The Trump administration had previously proposed the option of purchasing Patriot systems through Europe .
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