KYIV — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a significant announcement outlining ambitious plans to reinforce the country’s air defense capabilities. Speaking at a press briefing on July 24, he confirmed that Ukraine has officially requested ten additional Patriot air defense systems. Three of them are already secured — one each from Germany, Norway, and the United States. Talks are ongoing with other partners, including the Netherlands, to supply the remaining seven.
“We are actively working to acquire all ten. This is a complex task, involving not just obtaining the systems but ensuring their long-term operational readiness,” Zelensky explained. He emphasized that Ukraine is doing everything possible to meet the financial commitments tied to the request.
He also noted that the situation with missiles for these systems has stabilized. Earlier this summer, reports surfaced about a temporary pause in deliveries due to a shortage of interceptor missiles. However, those disruptions have since been addressed.
“We’re working on the missile issue — we have missiles,” the President stated, signaling that while there were supply gaps, the most critical phase has passed.
At the same time, Zelensky did not downplay the ongoing financial strain. Ukraine is currently facing an annual defense funding shortfall of around $40 billion. He highlighted that a significant portion of future investments will focus on drones, electronic warfare, and missile technology.
“Ukrainian drone production alone requires stable annual funding of $25 billion,” he said. This includes not just tactical drones but also more advanced systems integrated into Ukraine’s broader defense framework.
Zelensky stressed that success in the skies is essential to success on the ground. According to him, only a comprehensive strategy — combining technological modernization with external support — can maintain a balance of power and deter ongoing threats.
While the President didn’t name specific countries regarding the remaining Patriot systems, the confident tone of his remarks suggested ongoing momentum in diplomatic and defense negotiations. Ukraine, he said, will continue scaling its defense efforts, despite economic and logistical hurdles.
Against the backdrop of ongoing combat operations and intensifying activity in several frontline regions, air defense has returned to the top of Ukraine’s strategic agenda. The request for Patriot systems is not just a diplomatic gesture — it’s a strategic necessity shaped by real-time threats and a long-term vision for national security.
