PAC-3 missil avfyres i ørkenomgivelser

Latest News on the Patriot Air and Missile Defense System

The Patriot system is currently used by 19 countries, with 240 units delivered worldwide. The demand for air defense missile systems, including Patriot, is expected to grow at an annual rate of 5% between 2025 and 2030. The U.S. has also recently approved major arms sales, including a sale to Germany, valued at approximately $5 billion.

Other current news items regarding Patriot include:

  • U.S. Transfers Patriot Missiles to Ukraine

  • Netherlands Rebuilds Its Patriot Units

  • Ukraine Enhances Patriot System Protection

U.S. Transfers Patriot Missiles to Ukraine

In late January 2025, the U.S. sent approximately 90 Patriot missiles from Israel to Ukraine via Poland to strengthen Ukraine’s defenses against Russian attacks. These missiles came from Israel’s decommissioned Patriot stockpiles. This type of support aligns with previous U.S. approvals of arms sales and transfers to allies, such as the sale of 600 Patriot missiles to Germany in August 2024.

Netherlands Rebuilds Its Patriot Units

On January 16, 2025, Raytheon was awarded a $529 million contract to supply the Netherlands with a new Patriot unit, including radar, launchers, and support equipment. This order replaces components previously donated to Ukraine, with delivery expected by 2029. Growing demand for Patriot systems has led to increased production of critical components, including Boeing’s expansion of PAC-3 seeker production in August 2024.

Ukraine Enhances Patriot System Protection

In early January 2025, Ukraine’s largest steel producer, Metinvest, developed armored protection for the control modules of Patriot systems. These steel shields, consisting of nearly 200 plates, protect the equipment and crew from shrapnel and debris during Russian attacks.