NATO backs European coalition to produce 1000 Patriot missiles amid Ukraine-Russia conflict
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On Wednesday, the NATO Support and Procurement Agency disclosed that it would assist a number of countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, Romania, and Spain, in acquiring Patriots. These missiles are utilized for defense against maneuvering and ballistic missiles, as well as enemy aircraft, according to the Associated Press.
The missile production and supply contract has been awarded by NATO to the joint venture company COMLOG, the military alliance reported, additionally noting plans to expand European missile production.
The contract bolsters industrial and military capacities in Europe. The bulk order allows MBDA to set up a Patriot missile production plant in Germany, as well as the manufacturing of main components, as declared by NATO's Thomas Gottschild, the managing director of MBDA Germany. MBDA Germany collaborated with Raytheon to form the joint venture company COMLOG.
"Europe will produce 1000 anti-aircraft Patriot missiles on its own," said Kajsa Ollongren, the Dutch Defense Minister, as quoted by The Telegraph.
The procurement could potentially enable allies to divert more of their own defense systems towards Ukraine, the Associated Press suggests.
Russia's assault on Ukraine
"Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian civilians, cities and towns show how important modern air defenses are," NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated in a release. "Scaling up ammunition production is key for Ukraine’s security and for ours," he further added as reported by AP.
The announcement regarding the ramp-up of missile production comes amid extensive Russian assaults on Ukraine. Over one week of continuous air strikes employing missiles and drones have caused around 50 deaths and 330 injuries in Ukraine.
