U.S. may offer Poland to give Patriots to Ukraine, replacing them with 'Iron Dome'
Patriot (photo: GettyImagеs)
The United States is considering a three-way exchange of air defense systems involving NATO, Poland, and Ukraine, according to Politico.
In this scenario, Poland, as a NATO ally, would receive American "Iron Dome" systems, and a portion of their Patriot systems would be transferred to Ukraine.
This development came about after Israel declined requests from Washington and Kyiv to send the "Iron Dome" – a highly effective missile defense system that is also capable of countering mortars and artillery – directly to Ukraine.
What is "Iron Dome"
The "Iron Dome" is a mobile, all-weather air defense system developed by the Israeli company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems.
The system is capable of intercepting and destroying tactical unguided rockets and artillery shells launched from distances of 4 to 70 kilometers, with trajectories that pose a threat to populated areas. Since 2015, the system has also been equipped to intercept and destroy mobile unmanned aerial vehicles (drones).
Furthermore, the "Iron Dome" has the capability to engage aircraft flying at altitudes of up to 10 kilometers.
Poland's defense procurement
Indeed, Poland has been actively acquiring various military equipment to strengthen its national defense capabilities.
Among its acquisitions, Poland has ordered Abrams tanks and nearly five hundred High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) from the United States.
As reported by The Telegraph back in May, Poland's aim is to build the largest ground army in Europe, driven by concerns about potential threats from Russia in the region. This demonstrates Poland's commitment to enhancing its military capabilities and preparedness in the face of evolving security challenges.
Patriot in Ukraine
It's important to note that Ukraine currently possesses two Patriot air defense systems. One was provided by the United States, and the other was delivered jointly by Germany and the Netherlands.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine would need 50 Patriot batteries for effective defense against Russian attacks.
The Patriot air defense system has already demonstrated its effectiveness in Ukraine. On May 4, over Kyiv, the Patriot system successfully intercepted a Russian hypersonic missile, the Kh-47 Kinzhal, marking a significant achievement in Ukraine's air defense capabilities.
