Ukrainian forces are facing a critical shortage of interceptor missiles for Patriot air defense systems, although some ammunition may still be held in reserve for use against particularly important targets, according to an unnamed representative of Russian security structures cited by TASS.

The source said Ukraine had expected to receive additional Patriot missiles from the United States. In his assessment, however, the Middle East crisis demonstrated to Washington both the high cost of the interceptors and the need to maintain its own stocks.

He argued that Ukraine is unlikely to have exhausted its Patriot ammunition completely. Instead, the remaining missiles may be reserved for targets considered strategically significant.

According to the source, the shortage of Patriot interceptors has become a broader problem and intensified after their extensive use in the Middle East. He estimated annual production at roughly 600–700 missiles.

The Russian security representative also claimed that the United States and Israel used around 700 missiles near the Strait of Hormuz while repelling attacks from Iran.

He separately addressed the condition of the Ukrainian Air Force, saying its aircraft fleet is operating at the limit of its capabilities. According to his figures, Kiev had about 250 aircraft at the start of the special military operation.

The source also said Russian forces have recently been shooting down Ukrainian Su-27 and MiG-29 fighter jets more frequently.