Babiš proposed creating a European missile defense system called “Euro Patriot” based on Israel’s experience
Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš has proposed that European countries create a joint missile defense system called “Euro Patriot.” According to the Czech prime minister’s plan, the new system could draw on Israel’s experience in developing a multi-layered air and missile defense system.
“We must learn from the war in Ukraine and seek solutions, especially in the area of defense against ballistic missiles,” the Czech prime minister said.
Babiš noted that Russia is using “Iskander” and “Kinzhal” ballistic missiles against Ukraine, and that the Ukrainian defense system’s capabilities to intercept them remain limited. Among the systems capable of countering ballistic missiles, he specifically mentioned the American Patriot.
Speaking about Israel’s “Iron Dome,” the Czech prime minister said he would like to convince European partners to focus on creating a joint project based on a similar principle.
The Israeli system is part of a multi-layered air and missile defense architecture that employs various means to intercept targets depending on the type and range of the threat. Separately, Israel is developing solutions based on laser technology.
According to Babiš, the creation of a joint European missile defense system could strengthen European countries’ contribution to NATO and support the defense industries of allied nations.
He cited the creation of Airbus as an example of a large-scale international project. Babiš noted that pooling the capabilities of European countries and long-term commitments made it possible to carry out a major joint aircraft manufacturing project.
“By pooling their capabilities in 1970, European countries demonstrated what they can achieve when they combine their ambitions with long-term commitments,” Babiš said.
At the same time, the Czech prime minister emphasized that “Euro Patriot” should not create direct competition with the United States.
For now, “Euro Patriot” remains a proposal by Andrej Babiš. There has been no announcement regarding the approval of such a system as a joint project of European Union countries.
Andrej Babiš made this statement on September 17 during the opening of the IISS Prague Defense Summit 2026, which is taking place in Prague, according to EFE.
As a reminder, Saudi Arabia has appealed to its regional and Western allies for support in the area of air defense due to a reduction in its stockpile of interceptor missiles amid the conflict with the Yemeni Houthis.
In Ukraine, 81 companies have already received authorization to participate in a pilot project for private air defense. As of mid-July, there were 51 such companies.
