The U.S. military has transferred approximately 90 Patriot air defense interceptors from storage facilities in Israel to Poland as part of a broader effort to support Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression, according to three sources familiar with the operation. This marks one of the most significant arms deliveries involving Israel since the start of the Russian invasion nearly three years ago.
Strategic Importance
The move is a key initiative by the Pentagon aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s air defenses to protect critical infrastructure from Russian attacks. The Patriots, which are highly advanced surface-to-air missile systems, are pivotal in countering missile and drone strikes that have targeted Ukraine’s power grids and civilian areas.
Historical Context
The Israeli Air Force retired the Patriot missile system in April 2022 after over three decades of service. Initially supplied to Israel during the Gulf War, the system had been largely phased out as Israel developed more advanced domestic air defense technologies like the Iron Dome and David’s Sling. Most Patriot batteries were either used for training or placed in storage, making them a logical candidate for repurposing.
Behind the Deal
Sources reveal that after the decommissioning of the Patriot system, Ukrainian officials proposed a plan to the U.S. and Israel: transfer the retired missiles back to the U.S. for refurbishment and deployment to Ukraine. While the idea initially faced resistance from Israel, citing fears of Russian retaliation—potentially through military aid to Iran—Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu eventually approved the transfer in late September.
Netanyahu’s hesitation reportedly caused frustration among Ukrainian officials. According to one source, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky refused to take Netanyahu’s calls for weeks, further complicating diplomatic efforts. The issue was later resolved, with Zelensky reportedly using the situation as leverage to ensure approval of the missile transfer.
Diplomatic Sensitivities
Israel informed Russia in advance of the move, emphasizing that the operation involved returning U.S.-supplied equipment and did not constitute direct military aid to Ukraine. An Israeli official likened the move to a similar U.S. operation two years ago, where artillery shells stored in Israel were sent to Ukraine. Israeli officials continue to stress that their country is not actively arming Ukraine.
Operational Details
In recent days, U.S. Air Force C-17 cargo planes have transported the interceptors from an airbase in southern Israel to Rzeszów, Poland, a key logistics hub for moving military aid into Ukraine. The missiles will integrate with Ukraine’s existing Patriot batteries, while additional components, including radars, will be refurbished in the U.S. before deployment.
Broader Implications
The deal reflects the growing complexity of military aid coordination among U.S. allies amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. While Israel has walked a fine line to avoid direct involvement in the Ukraine conflict, the Patriot transfer underscores how global partnerships are being leveraged to provide Kyiv with the resources it needs.
In a related development, Zelensky and Netanyahu recently held talks to discuss various bilateral issues, including the Patriot deal and the ongoing Gaza conflict. Zelensky expressed gratitude for the support while highlighting the importance of continued collaboration with the U.S. and other partners.
