Exclusive: Ukraine's Vulnerability: Patriot Missiles Run Dry
In a stark revelation, Ukraine's Achilles' heel has been exposed to the world as its Patriot missile launchers, once a symbol of defense, now lie dormant in a cornfield, their canisters empty, last fired ten weeks ago.
The US-made Patriot interceptor, a coveted weapon globally, is at the center of a supply crisis. Dozens of countries are scrambling to bolster their defense systems, yet Ukraine, ravaged by Moscow's relentless attacks, finds itself in a dire predicament. CNN, granted exclusive access, witnessed the idle Patriot system, a stark contrast to the urgency of Ukraine's situation.
Dmytro, the chief engineer, expressed the anguish of having equipment without the ability to intercept missiles. Ballistic missiles soar overhead, while civilians live in fear. The emotional weight of this reality is palpable. The absence of interceptors, a feeling akin to learning to walk or breathe, leaves a profound impact.
The Patriot launcher, part of a sophisticated system, is remotely operated, with drivers far from the action. The decision to intercept is a complex judgment, made by the unit commander, considering the threat to civilians and critical infrastructure. Heorhi, a crew member, described the magical feeling of launching an interceptor, a testament to the system's power.
The global demand for Patriot interceptors, exacerbated by their use in the Gulf, has left Ukraine in a vulnerable position. The conflict in the Middle East, with its high missile launch rates, has directly impacted Ukraine's ability to defend itself. The Gulf states' liberal use of interceptors, averaging 225 per day in the early war days, has created a production gap, with manufacturers struggling to keep up.
Ukraine's desperate need for interceptors is evident. President Volodymyr Zelensky has pleaded for 5% of the US stockpile to survive the winter, but currently, only 1% is available. The complex issue of building their own interceptors under license from the US and its manufacturers is a topic of negotiation. Zelensky has offered ownership and control to Raytheon and Lockheed Martin, emphasizing the focus on production volume.
The political landscape adds another layer of complexity. Trump's offer of licensing to Ukraine during the NATO summit in Ankara was met with skepticism. The White House, in response to CNN's interview with Zelensky, emphasized the security of US technology, leaving the future of Patriot interceptors in Ukraine uncertain.
Dmytro, when asked about the possibility of building a Patriot battery immediately, was realistic. The technical expertise and complex procedures required make it an impossible feat without intellectual property concerns. Ukraine's vulnerability highlights the global arms race's impact, leaving a nation's defense in the hands of international supply chains and political negotiations.
