Patriot production in Ukraine could begin within weeks, Poland to assist - Minister
Illustrative photo: Patriot missiles will be manufactured in Ukraine (Vitalii Nosach / RBC-Ukraine)
Anti-ballistic missiles for the Patriot air defense systems could begin to be produced in Ukraine within a few weeks, this was announced by Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, according to PAP.
Responding to a question about Poland's role in the planned production of PAC-3 missiles in Ukraine, the minister said that transferring such technology to Ukrainian forces would not be possible without Poland's involvement.
"Our country is one of four NATO members — alongside Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands — that have been granted status in Ankara allowing the transfer of technologies related to the production and maintenance of Patriot missiles," he said.
Kosiniak-Kamysz stressed that Poland will cooperate with Ukraine on Patriot missile production, preparations for which could begin within weeks.
He noted that the manufacturing process is complex, especially given that even the US faces shortages of these missiles.
"That is why this must be done very quickly. We are determined. Poland is ready to begin maintenance work and take further steps immediately," the Polish defense minister said.
Patriot production license
As reported yesterday, July 8, following a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, US President Donald Trump said that the United States would grant Ukraine a license to manufacture Patriot missiles.
Experts told RBC-Ukraine that building the necessary production facility could take at least a year.
According to their estimates, it could then take an additional two years before the first missile is produced.
