The Netherlands has already delivered a radar system for the Patriot air defense complex to Ukraine and plans to send three launchers in the near future, according to Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Breekelmans.
The Dutch contribution comes amid Ukraine’s efforts to bolster its air defenses. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba reported on 23 April that Ukraine is working on obtaining four additional Patriot batteries from allies. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has also announced that Germany will send a third Patriot battery, with six more expected from other EU member states.
In an interview with Delfi, Breekelmans revealed the extent of Dutch military support for Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.
“We have delivered a radar system and very soon we will deliver three launchers. We are also trying to find other elements that are necessary to complete the system,” Breekelmans stated.
The minister indicated that the Netherlands and partner countries aim to provide Ukraine with various components of the Patriot air defense system. However, he noted that some countries willing to assist Ukraine with air defense have encountered difficulties in assembling the system.
Ukrainian military personnel began training on Patriot systems in Germany on 6 May, with deployment to Ukraine expected no earlier than the end of June. On 11 June, the media reported that Germany plans to transfer a third Patriot air defense system to Ukraine in the coming months.
Read also:
- Netherlands gives Ukraine green light for Russia deep strikes with Dutch weapons
- Ukraine allowed to use Dutch F-16s inside Russia, military chief confirms
- Support Ukraine now or pay more later, Dutch think tanks tell West