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Romania Moves Closer to Transferring Patriot Systems to Ukraine: Bill Submitted to Parliament

The Patriot surface-to-air missile system / Photo credit: The Allied Air Command
The Patriot surface-to-air missile system / Photo credit: The Allied Air Command

Romanian Defense Ministry submits bill to Parliament on sending Patriot systems to Ukraine

The Romanian Ministry of Defense has submitted a bill to Parliament proposing the transfer of Patriot missile systems to Ukraine, according to Radio Liberty.

The bill suggests transferring one of the seven Patriot systems purchased from the U.S., specifically the 3+ version, which is the most advanced configuration of the Patriot system used by both the U.S. and nearly 20 other allies.

Read more: ​How Ukrainian Ballistic Missile With a Range of 600-700 km Might Look Like, What Analogs Are There in the World?

Currently, four Patriot systems have arrived in Romania, with two already in operational use. The remaining three systems are expected to arrive soon.

Patriot air defense system
Patriot air defense system

In accordance with the National Defense Council's requirements, Romania must negotiate with its NATO allies, including the U.S., to acquire a new Patriot system to replace the one being transferred to Ukraine.

The cost of purchasing the new system will be covered by international funds allocated for Ukraine. However, the Romanian Parliament must also approve the acquisition of the new system, which is expected to cost approximately $60 million in fees and commissions. This expenditure will be financed by the Romanian defense budget.

Patriot air defense system
Patriot air defense system / Open source photo
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