US ramps up Ukraine support with additional Patriot missile system
The USA is set to dispatch an additional Patriot system to Ukraine, as reported by Bloomberg. Jake Sullivan, the US National Security Advisor, emphasized that the administration is making extensive efforts to support Ukraine.
Ukraine is currently highly coveted in anti-aircraft defense. The country's military forces have long sought such support, largely in response to the strategy deployed by Russian forces, which includes widespread shelling and the frequent use of aviation in their attacks.
In this context, assistance for anti-aircraft defense is of immense value, particularly with respect to Patriot batteries. These systems are adept at intercepting almost any threat posed by Russian forces.
The USA recognizes the importance of Patriots for Ukraine, leading the Biden administration to plan the deployment of another battery to the battleground to secure the Ukrainian airspace. Sullivan maintains that providing Patriots should be considered the top priority for Kyiv's allies.
The MIM-104 Patriot System
Since 2023, the MIM-104 Patriot system has been instrumental in defending the Ukrainian skies. Its development began in the 1960s, aiming to replace the aging MIM-23 Hawk system. The first Patriot system envisioned as a long-range anti-aircraft battery, was introduced in 1984.
One of the system's key features, ensuring its effectiveness, is the advanced AN/MPQ-53 radar. This device, operating in the 3.5-7.5 cm wavelength range and capable of frequencies up to 8 GHz, allows the Patriot to detect targets up to 62 miles away. Notably, it can track up to 125 objects simultaneously and direct missiles at nine concurrently.
This American surface-to-air missile system is adept at countering every possible aerial threat. Its missiles, which can reach an altitude of 16 miles, are designed to intercept aircraft, helicopters, drones, and all missile types, including ballistic, maneuvering, and anti-radar missiles.
A missile fired from a Patriot launcher accelerates to 5 Ma (over 3790 mph) and is powered by a solid-fuel engine. Depending on the model, the warhead weighs roughly 198 pounds, and the system's maximum operational range is approximately 99 miles.
