The German Air Force has successfully completed training for the fourth group of Ukrainian personnel on the Patriot air defense missile system. Although the details on the number of trainees and training duration remain unspecified.
Germany has already supplied Ukraine with three Patriot systems, with the latest one arriving in April and operational by July. Given that Germany’s total stock of the Patriot systems was 12 in 2021, this contribution represents 25% of its inventory. With each trained Ukrainian crew, an additional Patriot transfer to Ukraine becomes more viable.
Read more: Ukrainian Patriot System Intercepts russian Kinzhal Missiles Over Kyiv (Video)
Additional Patriot systems may arrive from other allies as well. The U.S. reported transferring the third Patriot between late September and mid-October, and Romania has requested parliamentary approval to transfer one of its systems, though a precise date remains unknown. The Netherlands also pledged to send components for one system, including the AN/MPQ-53 radar and three launchers, with other essential parts potentially sourced from partner nations.
Meanwhile, Raytheon, the system’s manufacturer, has committed to supplying five complete Patriot batteries to Ukraine by the end of 2024. In addition to Germany, the U.S. may also be hosting training programs, preparing Ukrainian crews to handle the complex system effectively.
Read more: Romania Relies on NATO Air Defense After Patriot System Sent to Ukraine
