Israel's older Patriot systems may soon enhance Ukraine's defense
The United States is discussing sending Israeli Patriot systems to Ukraine. Eight older batteries could significantly enhance the country's air defence capabilities and offensive operations. Analysts describe the weapon's functionalities.
Ukraine has frequently appealed to Western allies to supply air defence systems, particularly American Patriot systems. This weaponry is crucial for strengthening the country's air defence, although it can also be used offensively (such as in the downing of a Beriev A-50 early warning aircraft).
Recently, the United States announced it is pausing deliveries of Patriot interceptors to other countries to prioritize shipments to Ukraine. At the same time, Romania and the Netherlands have confirmed the transfer of missile systems. This may not be the only such gesture, as the Financial Times reports on discussions regarding sending Israeli missile systems as well.
Israeli Patriots for Ukraine?
Initial reports of transferring Israeli weaponry appeared in May when citizens started collecting signatures for a petition to the government. The chances for this are exceptionally high, especially since the United States is encouraging such action.
The Israeli batteries are older versions compared to the current Patriot systems in Ukraine. However, this is not a significant disadvantage. According to military analysts, the older, retired PAC-2 model is still fully compatible with the newer ones. Most importantly, Israel also has sufficient stocks of interceptors, which have a more excellent range and a more robust warhead than the PAC-3 models currently in use.
Older systems may still be effective against Russian fighters, which drop devastating glide bombs on cities and military positions far from the front lines.
"PAC-2 is actually more useful than PAC-3 for long range intercepts against aircraft, so they'd certainly be useful [in Ukraine]," said Justin Bronk, senior research fellow at the Royal United Services Institute in London.
Officials and analysts believe that the Israeli systems are most likely to be sold to the United States and then transferred to Ukraine. Up to eight Patriot air defence systems could reach Kyiv. However, they note that the critical issue is whether Israel is ready to risk worsening relations with Russia.
