The world lines up for Patriot air defense systems. Euractiv reports that the demand for the systems has reached historic levels, pushing American defense giant Raytheon, the world’s second-largest arms manufacturer, to significantly increase its European production.

In recent years, orders for Patriot systems have surged as European countries strengthen their defenses and replenish platforms sent to Ukraine. In response, Raytheon is exploring deeper industrial partnerships within the EU to meet demand.

Ukraine strikes first at Russian launchers which carry 800-kg explosive missiles prepared to hit Kyiv after Operation Spiderweb

This means the producer could double its Patriot missile production by 2028 or 2030. 

Despite some European discussions around moving away from US-made defense products, the Patriot system remains unrivaled in popularity. Recent large-scale orders from countries like Germany and Switzerland are contributing to delivery queues stretching years ahead.

European customers have already placed orders for over 1,000 additional Patriot interceptor missiles. Raytheon currently operates Patriot maintenance centers in Europe and co-produces NASAMS air defense systems with Norwegian defense firm Kongsberg.

However, the production boom isn’t without obstacles. Raytheon faces challenges sourcing critical components, especially for the GEM-T variant of Patriot missiles and their warheads.

Still, the company has resumed production of Stinger anti-tank systems due to overwhelming demand, and will continue even as a new short-range missile, NGSRI, enters service.

Raytheon is also eyeing long-term business opportunities in Ukraine, where officials are seeking faster deliveries and exploring joint production ventures with the US defense company.

The key question in negotiations remains how to get systems to Ukraine as quickly as possible.