Patriot Missile Delays Push Europe to Seek Alternatives

US allies, including Germany, Poland, Japan and Saudi Arabia, face uncertainty over when they will receive PAC-3 missiles ordered for Patriot air-defense systems, according to the Financial Times.

Although manufacturer Lockheed Martin plans to expand production significantly, company executives say the US government ultimately determines the order in which deliveries are made.

Demand for advanced air-defense systems has surged as a result of both the war in Ukraine and the conflict with Iran, putting growing pressure on Western missile stockpiles.

PAC-3 interceptors are among the most effective defenses against ballistic and hypersonic missiles and are considered particularly important for Ukraine.

The delays have heightened concerns among European allies about their reliance on US defense supplies and Washington’s procurement priorities.

Several countries are now accelerating the development of domestic air-defense capabilities or exploring alternative suppliers.

The conflict with Iran has also underscored how rapidly demand for advanced military technology can outpace manufacturers’ ability to increase production.

(mja)