Kyiv Is Left Defenseless Due to a Shortage of Missiles for Patriot Air Defense Systems – WSJ

Ukraine has practically run out of interceptor missiles for its Patriot air defense systems, which are capable of effectively shooting down ballistic missiles. The shelling on July 6 exposed this grim reality as the enemy intensifies its campaign of strikes against Ukrainian cities. 

The lack of a missile defense shield is leading to a rise in civilian casualties, even though the Defense Forces are capable of intercepting most long-range drones.

Currently, Ukraine is one of about 20 countries waiting in line for Patriot interceptors. The situation is complicated by the fact that global stocks of these air defense systems are quite limited, and the production process can take more than two years.

To address this problem in the future, Kyiv is currently working to develop its own missile defense system. At the same time, Ukraine is seeking licenses from the U.S. to begin manufacturing interceptor missiles domestically; however, neither project is likely to close the current gap in the missile defense system anytime soon.

This was reported by The Wall Street Journal.

On July 6, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko called for an urgent meeting of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine. According to him, participants must agree on a comprehensive plan to enhance the capital’s resilience amid intensifying Russian attacks.

Air Force spokesman Yuriy Ignat stated during a televised marathon that a stockpile of interceptor missiles is necessary to intercept ballistic missiles. He noted that Ukraine has enough Patriot systems, but a steady supply of missiles for them is needed.