The Biden administration is currently in talks with Israel and Ukraine regarding the potential transfer of aging Patriot air defense systems from Israel to Ukraine amidst the ongoing war with Russia. An administration official and a source familiar with the discussions have confirmed the urgent need for air defenses in Kyiv.
While no final agreement has been reached yet, the US and Germany have already sent Patriot systems to Ukraine. The administration is hopeful that these efforts will succeed given the effectiveness of the Patriot batteries currently in use in Ukraine.
It remains uncertain how long the process of transferring the systems would take, with the likelihood of them first being refurbished in the US before being sent to Ukraine. This potential transfer would signify a significant shift in Israel’s stance on the conflict in Ukraine, as they have been cautious not to criticize Russia.
Israel has previously refrained from providing weapons to Ukraine, opting instead to assist in the development of an air defense system. The ongoing discussions were first reported by the Financial Times.
In April, the Israel Defense Forces announced plans to retire its Patriot systems, which were integrated into the military in 1991. While the Patriot missiles are not Israel’s primary air defense system, they have conducted numerous interceptions over the years.
Last week, the Biden administration announced its prioritization of critical air defense capabilities for Ukraine to ensure its survival amid the conflict. Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder emphasized the US commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense needs in the face of an existential threat.
