Trump: Ukraine may get license for 'less sophisticated' Patriot missiles
Ukraine could obtain a license to produce missiles for Patriot air defense systems, but only a "less advanced version" of them, U.S. President Donald Trump said on Sept. 13, while speaking with reporters aboard his plane.
US President Donald Trump hinted on September 13 that the United States may grant Ukraine a license to produce a less advanced version of Patriot interceptor missiles. During a briefing aboard Air Force One, Trump mentioned the possibility of a "less sophisticated" version of the missiles, though he did not specify which model or whether US defense contractors had approved the proposal.
Trump also emphasized that the US is producing more Patriot missiles than ever before, rapidly replenishing stockpiles of advanced weapons previously supplied to Ukraine.
In July, Trump had previously stated that the US would authorize Ukraine to manufacture Patriots, showing them how to produce them quickly. However, he later clarified that the US had not agreed to transfer the technology, stating that discussions were ongoing. Trump argued that sharing sensitive military technology could pose risks, as recipients might eventually use it against the United States.
Ukraine has sought permission to produce Patriot interceptors to counter Russian ballistic and cruise missile attacks, which have depleted its air-defense stocks and those of its partners. The Patriot system is crucial for defending against ballistic missiles, as many Western-supplied systems are less effective against such threats.
Even if Washington grants the license, establishing production in Ukraine is unlikely to provide an immediate solution, as constructing factories, organizing supply chains, and increasing production would take years. Additionally, sensitive components could remain subject to US export restrictions.
In early September, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that building factories, organizing supply chains, and increasing production would take years. Ukraine is working to secure approximately 1,000 Patriot missiles with support from allies and an EU loan, with most of those interceptors expected to arrive over several years rather than immediately. Meanwhile, Kyiv has urged its partners to release additional missiles from existing stockpiles while negotiations over licensed production continue.
Written by urgent.news from Kyiv Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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