Spain and Greece refuse to give Ukraine Patriot missiles nearing expiration
Greece and Spain are holding stocks of Patriot interceptor missiles that are nearing their expiry dates and could bolster Ukraine’s air defenses.
The Telegraph reports that Spain and Greece have refused to transfer their aging Patriot interceptor missiles to Ukraine. Both nations possess some of the largest stocks of these crucial defense systems in Europe, but must be replaced soon. President Zelensky has requested between 300 and 360 such missiles to protect Ukraine against potential Russian attacks during the winter months.
NATO and EU officials are urging Athens and Madrid to hand over their Patriot PAC-2 missiles, whose shelf life is rapidly approaching its end. Greece reportedly possesses at least 200 PAC-2 missiles, with their 23-year shelf life estimated to expire soon. Spain's assistance has been confirmed, with the country agreeing to provide five interceptors.
However, the European Union's High Representative Kaja Kallas stated that it would be beneficial to offer Ukraine missiles nearing the end of their shelf life. Experts agree that providing these missiles, whose effectiveness is guaranteed for a set period, would be more advantageous than those with a longer lifespan. The supply of Patriot missiles to Ukraine has been facilitated through a NATO-backed program, but a current shortage of these missiles due to tensions with Iran creates uncertainty over future replenishment.
Written by urgent.news from Ukrinform - Politics's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
