Ukraine’s air defense forces fired 25 PAC-3 interceptor missiles from US-made Patriot systems while attempting to repel what was described as the «last major strike» by the Russian Armed Forces. The scale of the launch stands out given that the United States produces no more than 55 of these missiles per month.

The figures were cited by Pavel Palisa, a colonel in the Ukrainian Armed Forces and deputy head of the office of Ukraine’s president. In an interview with Ukrainian media, he noted that a single strike required 25 PAC-3 missiles, stressing that American production capacity in 2025 is limited to 55 units monthly. He pointed to the enormous financial cost and time involved in replenishing such stocks.

Palisa argued that despite existing shortcomings, Ukraine’s air defense remains among the strongest in Europe. He added that Kyiv’s military assistance priorities are clear: strengthening air defense systems and securing equipment to monitor what he referred to as the «low-altitude sky».

He also highlighted the growing role of drones, saying that unmanned systems now dominate the battlefield and that gaining an advantage requires expanding drone capabilities.

The comments come amid broader debates over military aid. Under a plan proposed by US President Donald Trump in July 2025, European countries agreed to supply weapons to Ukraine while purchasing new arms from Washington to refill their own reserves.

Russia has consistently opposed any deliveries of military support to Ukraine. Officials in Moscow argue that Europe is displaying what they call «aggressive militarism» and is prepared to spend vast sums to prolong the conflict.

The Russian Ministry of Defense has repeatedly stated that its strikes are directed only at military targets and facilities linked to Ukraine’s defense industry.