EXPLAINER: 5 Things to Know About Ukraine and Patriot Missiles

Ukraine urgently requires PAC-3 Patriot interceptors to counter Russian Iskander-M and Zircon ballistic missiles but exhausted its stock by July 2026, leading to unimpeded Russian strikes. US production limits and policy delays have worsened shortages, while Ukraine develops a cheaper domestic interceptor, Freya, with test launches expected by late 2026. A small resupply of under 20 PAC-3 missiles is anticipated from allies including Poland.