Ukraine Seeks 25 Patriot Batteries from United States

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced his country’s intention to procure 25 Patriot air defense systems from the United States, in a move that underscores Kyiv’s urgent efforts to strengthen its defenses amid sustained Russian aerial assaults. The request, reported in a November 2025 article titled “Zelenskyy: We want to order 25 Patriot air defense systems from US” by Breaking Defense, marks one of the most ambitious military procurement initiatives undertaken by Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in 2022.

Speaking during a security forum in Washington, Zelenskyy emphasized the strategic imperative behind the request, stating that Ukraine needs the Patriot systems to safeguard major population centers and essential infrastructure. He identified seven key cities—including Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odesa—that remain vulnerable to missile and drone attacks. The proposal to acquire 25 batteries reflects both the scale of Ukraine’s defensive shortfall and the country’s commitment to modernizing its air defense capabilities in line with NATO standards.

The Patriot system, developed by Raytheon Technologies, is one of the most advanced air defense systems in the U.S. arsenal. It has demonstrated effectiveness against aerial threats including ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and advanced drones. Ukraine currently operates a limited number of Patriot batteries, having received initial units from the U.S. and allied partners in Europe earlier in the conflict. Their successful deployment, including multiple interceptions of Russian ballistic missiles, has intensified Ukrainian calls for additional units.

U.S. and NATO officials have expressed continued support for Ukraine’s air defense needs, but the potential acquisition of 25 new Patriot systems would represent a significant escalation in the scale of military assistance. Each battery costs an estimated $1 billion or more, depending on its configuration and the number of interceptors supplied. While Zelenskyy did not specify funding details, Ukraine has relied on a combination of U.S. military aid packages, European security initiatives, and bilateral agreements to underwrite prior defense acquisitions.

Analysts note that fulfilling Ukraine’s request would stretch existing production capacity for Patriot systems and interceptors, which are in high demand worldwide. With Taiwan, Poland, and other countries also ordering the system, U.S. defense contractors are under pressure to increase output. It remains unclear how quickly the requested Patriot units could be delivered, even with political backing from Washington.

The new request comes as Ukraine prepares for what could be a difficult winter campaign, with Russian forces expected to intensify missile strikes aimed at energy infrastructure and civilian targets. Ukrainian officials have warned repeatedly of potential blackouts and humanitarian impacts if adequate aerial defenses are not in place.

Zelenskyy’s appeal in Washington coincided with renewed diplomatic efforts to secure long-term Western support. In recent weeks, Ukraine has sought greater clarity from U.S. lawmakers and NATO countries regarding future aid commitments, especially amid shifting political dynamics in the U.S. ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

In calling for expanded Patriot coverage, Zelenskyy framed Ukraine’s defense not only as a matter of national survival but as pivotal to the broader security architecture of Europe. “We are defending not only our homes but your way of life,” he said, urging partners to accelerate deliveries and overcome bureaucratic and industrial delays.

As of now, the U.S. Department of Defense has not publicly responded to the new request, but officials familiar with the situation suggest internal discussions are ongoing. Any formal agreement would likely necessitate congressional approval and close coordination with NATO allies.

The request for 25 Patriot batteries signals Ukraine’s shifting posture toward a more permanent, long-term defense posture, even as heavy fighting continues in the east and south of the country. Whether Washington can deliver on that scale—and how quickly—will be an early test of Western resolve in this new phase of the war.