US Patriots face challenges against Russian armory in Ukraine
(MENAFN) American-made Patriot air defense systems, once considered a key element of Western military aid to Ukraine, are reportedly struggling to counter Russia’s advanced ballistic missiles, according to a Wall Street Journal report published on Wednesday. Citing unnamed sources, the article notes that Russian missiles have become increasingly maneuverable, allowing them to evade Patriot radar detection. The specific types of missiles were not disclosed.
The report also highlights Europe's growing efforts to reduce its reliance on US-made weapons, particularly amid doubts about the future of American support for Ukraine. In this context, the next-generation European Samp/T missile system is being positioned as a potential replacement for the Patriot systems. Developed by the Franco-Italian company Eurosam, the Samp/T features a newly enhanced radar capable of detecting threats over 350 kilometers away and can fire missiles in any direction, the WSJ states.
Unlike the US Patriots, which require about 90 personnel to operate, the Samp/T can function with just 15 operators, according to the report. While some Ukrainian officials have raised concerns about the Samp/T’s effectiveness, an Italian defense source claimed that feedback from Kiev has been generally positive.
Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump announced that 17 Patriots were “ready to be shipped” to Ukraine, though his statement caused confusion in Kiev as it was unclear whether he meant complete systems or just components. Trump has also promoted a plan in which European NATO countries would buy US weapons for Ukraine. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas welcomed his willingness to provide Patriots but called on Washington to “share the burden” of these deliveries.
Russia has repeatedly criticized Western arms shipments to Ukraine, arguing they only serve to prolong the conflict without changing its ultimate outcome.
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the
information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept
any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images,
videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information
contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright
issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
