Ukraine’s defense capabilities could be significantly enhanced if the transfer of eight Israeli M901 PAC-2 Patriot batteries from Israel to Ukraine goes through, according to a report in the Financial Times. This potential transfer comes amid ongoing conflicts and tensions in the region, and its implications are being closely watched.
Israel had initially planned to replace these batteries with more advanced systems, but kept them in use due to escalating tensions with Hezbollah. If the transfer goes through, Ukraine will possess at least four Patriot systems provided by the US and Germany, as well as the older but still compatible Israeli batteries. The Israeli batteries have advantages such as longer range and larger warheads compared to the newer PAC-3 model.
The Russian Ambassador to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzia, has raised concerns about this potential transfer, stating that it could have political implications. The decision could have far-reaching effects on the balance of power and security dynamics in the area, and it remains to be seen how discussions between Israel, the USA, and Ukraine will progress and what the outcome of this potential transfer will be.
