Russia Strikes U.S.-Made Patriot Air Defense System in Ukraine
Russia announced on Thursday that its missiles had targeted two launchers of the U.S.-made Patriot air defense system in Ukraine. The attack also hit a control station and radar set associated with the Patriot system, along with troops and other military equipment in the area.
Ukraine heavily relies on Western air defense systems, especially Patriots, to defend against Russian missiles, prompting calls for more deliveries. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed the strike took place in the central Dnipropetrovsk region, causing damage to at least one Patriot launcher station.
While Kyiv did not immediately confirm the extent of the damage, reports from witnesses suggested that a Patriot launcher had indeed been affected. The Ukrainian military blogger indicated that the strike occurred in Pavlohrad, with minor damage reported.
With ongoing conflicts between Russia and Ukraine, the incident highlights the vulnerability of vital defense systems and the importance of securing advanced air defense technology.