Germany orders Patriot Air defense systems from Raytheon
Raytheon has secured a $1.2-billion contract to deliver Patriot surface-to-air missile systems to the German government.
The agreement provides the capability’s latest Configuration 3+ design, complete with the primary radar, control station, and launcher platforms.
The company will also supply corresponding spare parts and support services.
“This contract reflects the global emphasis on advanced air and missile defense capabilities and the steadfast confidence in Patriot,” Raytheon Land and Air Defense Systems President Tom Laliberty stated.
“With this expansion, Germany will not only modernize its own significant air defense but enhance its interoperability with allies and further strengthen a core NATO mission.”
1,000 NATO Air Defense Systems
Germany’s order follows a framework agreement signed by NATO members in January to procure up to 1,000 Patriot missiles to reinforce the alliance’s air defense in response to Russia’s continuing invasion of Ukraine.
Alongside Berlin, NATO’s procurement arm confirmed that Romania, the Netherlands, and Spain signed the $5.5-billion initiative.
The Patriot
Raytheon introduced the Patriot air and missile defense system in the early 1980s to replace the US Army’s aging air defense systems and carry recently developed anti-ballistic missiles.
Since its inception, the mobile system has been upgraded to meet the evolving requirements of the US military and partner forces.
Depending on its variant, the Patriot can fire interceptors and missiles at targets up to 160 kilometers (100 miles) away.
The solution can defeat threats including tactical ballistic and long-range cruise missiles and the “full spectrum” of air-breathing or hypersonic weapons.
The Patriot is currently employed in 19 countries.
