Official statements from the US Department of Defense or major news outlets

Biden Redirects 72 PAC-3 MSE Patriot Missiles from Switzerland to Ukraine

Jun 20, 2024, 09:32 AM

The United States has decided to redirect Patriot air defense systems and interceptor missiles originally intended for Switzerland to Ukraine, according to a report by Blick on June 19. This decision comes as Ukraine's need for air defense has become more urgent. Switzerland had received approval to purchase 72 PAC-3 MSE missiles in November 2022, with deliveries scheduled for 2028/29. However, the Biden administration has prioritized Ukraine's defense needs, postponing deliveries to Switzerland and other countries. This move is part of a broader effort to support Ukraine, with other countries like Germany, Denmark, and Spain also potentially supplying Swiss military equipment to Ukraine. The decision has sparked discussions about the US's ability to meet its current contractual obligations while addressing Ukraine's defense requirements, as reported by the Financial Times.