International News: Ukraine, which is lagging behind in the war, seems to be facing another setback. It may take a long time for Ukraine to get additional Patriot missile defense systems from Germany. According to a report in the German newspaper BILD, Germany does not have the capacity to immediately provide Patriot systems to Ukraine from its defense budget. America will make new Patriot units and give them to Germany, only after which they can be sent to Ukraine. This entire process may take at least 6 to 8 months.
Germany has already given 3 Patriot systems to Ukraine after the reduction in military aid from the US, and now it has only 3 operational units left, which it wants to keep deployed for its own security. Europe also lacks air defense systems, making it difficult for Ukraine to get immediate help. At present, Russian air attacks have intensified, and Ukraine needs air defense as soon as possible.
Can Patriot Stop Kinzhal
Amid reports of Ukraine getting Patriot systems, questions are also being raised about the capability of the Patriot missile defense system. British expert Alexander Merkoris has claimed that the Patriot system will not be effective in stopping Russia's hypersonic missiles, such as the 'Kinzhal' (Kh-47M2 Kinzhal). According to him, Patriot was originally designed to stop ballistic missiles, but hypersonic missiles with a speed of more than 12 thousand km/h can challenge it.
Mid-Air Maneuvering Challenge
Russia's Kinzhal missile not only attacks at very high speeds, but it can also maneuver in mid-flight, making it even more difficult to intercept. In such a situation, how effective the Patriot systems Ukraine is getting will be against Russian attacks is a big question.
Wait Until 2026 Too Long?
The increase in the air defense strength of the Ukrainian army will not happen for many months. Eight Patriot complexes ordered by the previous government will be delivered to the Air Force by the end of 2026 (earlier), and the rest by 2029. In such a situation, it is difficult for the Ukrainian army, which has suffered losses in the war, to survive for such a long time. Because Russia's attacks are constantly increasing.
