Spain and Greece hesitant to transfer aging Patriot interceptors to Ukraine
Spain and Greece have not agreed to hand over Patriot PAC-2 missiles whose service life is nearing expiration, despite NATO and EU urging them to do so.
Ukraine's request for Patriot interceptor missiles includes a target of 300 to 360 units, according to President Zelensky. Greece holds at least 200 PAC-2 missiles whose 23-year shelf life is soon to expire, and Spain has indicated it could supply five interceptors, though exact numbers are unclear. NATO and EU officials are pressing Athens and Madrid to move these aging missiles to Kyiv, noting that once the guaranteed period ends the missiles require recertification.
About 95% of Patriot interceptors sent to Ukraine come through a NATO-backed program funded by European nations buying directly from the United States. A global shortage, worsened by the war in Iran, has left U.S. stocks low, raising doubts about continued replenishment while U.S. forces are engaged elsewhere. Allies are assessing how to facilitate the transfer of the soon-to-expire stock from Greece and Spain.
Why it matters
Ukraine's air defence relies on Patriot missiles, and expired stock could affect its ability to counter attacks.
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