Two new German Patriot systems now protect Ukrainian cities
Two new Patriot systems from Germany already protect Ukrainian cities (photo: Getty Images)
Two Patriot air defense systems recently delivered by Germany are already protecting Ukrainian cities and critical infrastructure, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense reported.
"Two more Patriot air defense systems have begun protecting Ukrainian cities and critical infrastructure. As previously reported by Ukraine's Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal, this was made possible thanks to recent agreements with the German government," the statement said.
The Ministry of Defense recalled that Patriot is a US-made surface-to-air missile system. It is one of the most advanced air defense systems in the world.
It is designed to destroy aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles. Patriot is capable of intercepting high-speed and complex targets, providing layered protection for strategic facilities and large cities.
The ministry outlined the main advantages of Patriot:
- Versatility. The system destroys various aerodynamic and ballistic targets, including hypersonic ones. Patriot missiles can intercept hypersonic missiles Zircon and Kinzhal, which reach speeds of up to 11,000 km/h and up to 16,000 km/h, respectively.
- High efficiency. The highly accurate Patriot radar uses technologies that allow it to detect and track multiple targets simultaneously. Patriot missiles, especially the PAC-3 MSE version, have high precision and can hit targets with direct guidance, which is essential for protecting against ballistic missiles.
- Multitasking. One Patriot battery can simultaneously detect up to 100 targets and track up to eight targets.
- Automation. The ability to operate in automatic mode allows Patriot to respond instantly to threats, which is critical for intercepting hypersonic missiles.
- Range and altitude. Patriot can engage aerial targets at altitudes of up to 24 km and at distances of up to 160 km, covering large areas.
"Currently, Patriot air defense systems are protecting Ukrainian cities and critical infrastructure, reducing losses from enemy cruise and ballistic missile strikes on energy facilities and civilian objects," the Ministry of Defense said.
Patriot and other assistance from Germany
Recently, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said that Germany had transferred two additional Patriot air defense systems and a ninth IRIS-T air defense system to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
According to him, next year Germany will also transfer a significant number of AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles from German stockpiles to strengthen Ukraine's air defense.
In addition, Germany plans to provide Ukraine with €11.5 billion in assistance in 2026. The relevant expenditures are included in the country's budget.
