**Germany to Discuss Funding US Missile Systems for Ukraine**
In a move that could boost Ukraine’s defense capabilities, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is set to travel to Washington to discuss the possibility of Germany funding American Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine. This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has consistently asked Western allies for more defensive capabilities to protect critical infrastructure and civilian areas from frequent Russian missile and drone attacks.
**A Boost in Defense Capabilities**
Patriot, a mobile surface-to-air missile defense system developed by Raytheon Technologies, is considered one of the most advanced air defense systems in the US arsenal. It has been in service since the 1980s and can intercept aircraft, tactical ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles. The system’s radar has a range of over 150 km (93 miles), making it an effective tool against enemy attacks.
**Why Ukraine Needs More Patriots**
Ukraine has asked for more defensive capabilities to fend off daily missile and drone attacks from Russia. While the Patriot system is effective in intercepting missiles and aircraft, its high cost makes it less efficient in shooting down low-budget drones. However, Ukrainian officials say that Patriots are essential in defending key targets from Russia’s escalating long-range attacks.
**Cost of the Patriot System**
A newly produced single Patriot battery costs over $1 billion, including $400 million for the system itself and $690 million for the missiles in a battery. The cost of individual interceptors is estimated at around $4 million per missile. Despite its high price tag, the US has already sent an undisclosed number of Patriots to Ukraine, with President Donald Trump announcing that the European Union would cover the costs.
**Analysis**
The proposed funding of Patriot systems by Germany and other Western allies could be a significant boost in Ukraine’s defense capabilities. The system’s effectiveness in intercepting missiles and aircraft makes it an attractive option for countries under attack from enemy forces. However, its high cost may make it less appealing to countries with limited budgets.
In a statement, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that supplying more Patriots to Ukraine would delay the chances of peace. This highlights the ongoing tensions between Russia and the West over Ukraine’s involvement in the conflict.
As the situation on the ground continues to escalate, one thing is clear: Ukraine needs all the defensive capabilities it can get. The proposed funding of Patriot systems by Germany and other Western allies could be a crucial step in bolstering Ukraine’s defenses against Russian aggression.
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