According to anonymous AP sources cited by Ukrayinska Pravda, a crisis in the supply of air defense weapons arose after the US transferred a significant portion of its European stockpiles to the Middle East to defend against Iranian drones and missiles.

Since the start of the conflict with Iran, the US has used approximately 65% of its Patriot interceptor missiles, according to estimates by the Center for Strategic and International Studies. US forces in Europe are also facing critical shortages of ATACMS missiles.

Official spokespeople for NATO and the Pentagon have rejected claims that they are unable to defend European territory, calling reports of munitions shortages false. NATO said its arsenal was sufficient both to defend Alliance territory and to continue supporting Ukraine.

Dwindling stockpiles have increased the need for alternatives such as the Franco-Italian SAMP/T NG system. At the same time, production capacity is expected to increase.

Europe’s first Patriot missile production facility is set to open in Germany in September. Deliveries could begin early next year, with Germany, the Netherlands, Romania and Spain among the countries that have already placed orders.

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