Russia exploits global Patriot interceptor shortage
Explosion in Kyiv, June 2 (Photo: REUTERS/Gleb Garanich)
Russia is taking advantage of a critical shortage of Patriot
missile interceptors to intensify attacks on Ukrainian cities, The Guardian reported
on June 2.
Open-source data and repeated statements by Ukrainian official show that U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems remain the only reliable tool for Ukraine to shoot down incoming ballistic missiles.
The Guardian noted that Lockheed Martin manufactures roughly 600 interceptor missiles a year, and U.S. Gulf allies have expended more than 1,100 of them in the first two months of the Iran war, causing a sharp deficit.
The shortage of interceptors has already affected Russian tactics in the war against Ukraine, The Guardian said, noting that access to Patriot interceptors has long been a point of contention between Kyiv and the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.
The shortfall has become more acute amid Kremlin threats to
conduct “systematic” strikes on Kyiv, the report added. The Guardian also
warned the deficit could have long-term consequences for NATO readiness as the
threat from Russia to Europe grows. Countries that operate the Patriot include
Germany, the Netherlands, Greece, Spain, Poland, and Sweden.
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