Spain has agreed to supply Patriot missiles to Ukraine under pressure from NATO and the EU for European countries with this US-manufactured system to deliver it to Kiev to strengthen their anti-aircraft defense against Russian attacks. The transfer of a small number of missiles has been approved after the Ministry of Defense refused to transfer the battery deployed in Turkey and Syria since 2013. The Spanish Army has three batteries purchased from Germany in 2004 and 2014, with one in Adana (Turkey) and the others in Valencia and used for training Ukrainian and Spanish soldiers.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has requested the delivery of six batteries to defend strategic locations in the country against the expected Russian offensive in the coming months. However, the Ministry of Defense has refused, claiming that these systems are the only effective ones against missile attacks and that the Spanish Armed Forces are understaffed. As compensation, the government has agreed to provide a limited number of Patriot missiles, as Spain’s war reserve has around fifty units and interceptors are expensive. The Defense Ministry has a program to acquire a complete group of Patriot missiles with four advanced batteries, but this will not be available before 2028 or 2029.
Other countries with Patriot missiles are also under pressure to supply them to Ukraine, with Germany announcing the delivery of another battery and Greece considering it. The Netherlands is willing to finance the purchase of missiles from third countries for Ukraine, while France could provide the MAMBA system. The Spanish Defense Minister will participate in a meeting on Friday with other countries to discuss contributions to Ukraine’s demands, following the approval of US military aid. Spain is preparing to deliver more armaments, including Leopard 2A4 tanks and potential ammunition supplies, as the availability of other anti-aircraft systems is limited.
Spain has already supplied Ukraine with Hawk missile launchers, but it is difficult to provide more due to production limitations. The government is considering having ammunition manufacturers provide supplies to Ukraine, even if it means postponing replenishment of Spain’s own military arsenals. Despite the challenges, Spain remains committed to supporting Ukraine and is working to provide necessary equipment and support. The international community, including NATO and EU members, is coordinating efforts to assist Ukraine in defending against Russian aggression, with various countries contributing weapons and resources to support Ukraine’s defense capabilities. The situation in Ukraine remains tense, and efforts to support the country’s defense will continue in the coming months.
