Ukraine in Talks with US for Joint Patriot Air Defense Systems Production

Kyiv is engaging in discussions for collaborative efforts with Washington to establish the joint production of Patriot air defense systems, stated Ukrainian Ambassador to the US Oksana Markarova in an interview with European Pravda on April 23.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has emphasized Ukraine’s requirement for 25 Patriots to safeguard the nation against Russian assaults. However, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has indicated a current focus on securing seven systems to protect Ukraine’s biggest cities.

The potential joint production of Patriots was highlighted as a key agenda item during Zelenskyy’s recent visits to the US, as noted by Markarova. “This is a major global strategic task and an element of economic cooperation. But it is also an increase in combat capability and production of the capabilities that Ukraine needs immediately,” the ambassador said.

Reports suggest that representatives from Ukrainian and US industries have convened to explore investment opportunities and collaborative ventures, encompassing not only weaponry but also the requisite materials for commencing production.

“We should start producing a lot of products ourselves, at least components, and at most already completed products,” Markarova added.

Ukraine has existing agreements for joint defense production with several nations, including the US. In December 2023, Kyiv and Washington inked a statement of intent to undertake cooperative production of armaments. The agreement is anticipated to facilitate the establishment of manufacturing facilities in Ukraine, catering to the military’s needs for air defense systems, ammunition, and associated repair and maintenance services.