(NewsSpace.com) – It’s been nearly two years since Russia invaded Ukraine. In that time, the West has rallied behind the war-torn country and given it the aid it needed to fight off its aggressor. In the 22-plus months since the war started, the United States alone has sent more than $75 billion. Now, NATO allies have pledged to send missiles.
NATO announced the deal on January 3. The alliance’s Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) revealed it would be awarding the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, and Romania contracts that would create “up to 1,000 Patriot Guidance Enhanced Missiles.” NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said the deal “shows the strength of transatlantic defense cooperation and [the alliance’s] commitment to keeping [its] people safe.”
Managing Director of MBDA Germany, Thomas Gottschild, said, “The contract strengthens industrial and military capabilities in Europe” and would give the company the funds it needs to establish a production facility, which would, in turn, create jobs and strengthen the ammunition supply chain.
Ukraine currently uses the Patriot Defense System, courtesy of the United States and Germany. It helps to ward off aerial attacks launched by Russia and can help defend against enemy aircraft as well as ballistic and cruise missiles. The country’s military has reported that the system has been highly successful.
Moscow recently launched its biggest attack on Ukraine since the war started, highlighting the need for such systems. According to The Associated Press, Russia launched dozens of drones and more than 100 missiles on Friday, December 29. At least 30 civilians were killed in the attack, and more than 100 were wounded. The attack lasted more than 18 hours and reportedly targeted critical infrastructure.
Ukraine’s Air Force was able to intercept most of the missiles and drones Russia launched, but not all. The military also reportedly launched a missile into Belgorod, killing more than 20 and injuring more than 100. Having an additional 1,000 missiles will help the country continue to defend its airspace.
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