Spain, Greece have hundreds of Patriot missiles nearing expiration

Spain and Greece possess numerous interceptors for Patriot air defense systems that are nearing the end of their service life, yet they remain hesitant to transfer these missiles to Ukraine, according to a report by The Telegraph on October 9. Both the European Union and NATO are urging the countries to provide the missiles to Kyiv due to the threat of potential large-scale Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure.

Greece reportedly possesses at least 200 Patriot PAC-2 missiles, with their 23-year lifespan drawing to a close. The current stockpile of such missiles in Spain is unknown. However, Spain's foreign minister previously stated that Madrid would supply Kyiv with five interceptor missiles. Negotiators have refrained from publicly naming the countries to avoid straining relations with them.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas raised the issue during discussions in Ireland last month, stating, "We know that some of the countries have interceptors that will expire soon; so it would be very good if those would be given to Ukraine." According to a diplomatic source, Greece and Spain are being advised to consider this decision.

"It would make sense if at least the interceptors that are close to their expiry date go to Ukraine," the source emphasized. After their service life expires, Patriot missiles must undergo recertification, a process that involves replacing outdated components, such as batteries and rocket motors, and assessing the condition of other parts.

Fabian Hoffmann, a missile-weapons expert at the University of Oslo, noted that the missiles may still function after their service life ends, but the manufacturer no longer warrants their reliability.