US Quadruples Patriot Missile Purchase

The US Army has decided to increase its purchase of Patriot PAC-3 MSE missiles fourfold, amid a decline in weapons stockpiles and the launch of the "Golden Dome" air defense program. According to the Pentagon's 2025 budget proposal, the purchase target has been increased from 3,376 missiles to 13,773.

It is stated that this increase is due to the need to strengthen the missile defense capability and rapidly renew the arsenal. While $1.31 billion is requested for 2026, $945.9 million of this will consist of the main budget and $366 million will consist of additional payments for 96 missiles.

In addition, part of this fund was allocated to support Ukraine:

-549.6 million dollars for 130 missiles,

-396.3 million dollars will be used as part of the Ukrainian aid for 103 missiles.

The cost of a PAC-3 MSE missile is approximately $3.87 million. President Donald Trump officially launched the Golden Dome program on May 20, describing it as "the country's impenetrable shield." An additional $25 billion budget will also be requested within this scope.

On the other hand, the information that US weapons stockpiles are decreasing and arms shipments to Ukraine have been temporarily suspended was also confirmed by Politico. White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated that this decision was made in order to protect US interests.