Ukraine will not be able to start producing interceptor missiles for Patriot systems on its territory in the coming year. Matthew Witaker, the official US representative to NATO, confirmed that the licensing agreement will not be signed until the start of winter.

The current situation is the result of a thorough risk assessment by Washington. As Witaker stated on Fox News, negotiations are ongoing, but the issue of transferring PAC-3 missile production technology remains closed in the current format.

Prioritizing technology protection

The main reason for the delay is strict control over the export of high-tech weapons. Witaker explained that, at this time, the production of PAC-3 missiles is permitted exclusively for American manufacturers within the United States.

"We do not allow anyone other than American manufacturers to produce them in the United States," the diplomat emphasized. Washington fears the leakage of secret military technologies that could be used by adversaries.

Earlier, at the end of July, US President Donald Trump, during a meeting with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Washington, stated his willingness to allow Ukraine to produce interceptor missiles. However, just a few days later, he clarified that no final decision has been made and that the US must "be very careful about transferring the secrets of this weapon".

Alternative formats of cooperation

Despite the refusal to immediately transfer the license, the US is not closing the door on joint production. Matthew Witaker noted that other formats of interaction with Ukraine and European partners are being considered.

"There are opportunities for joint production that we can realize with Ukrainians, we can realize with Europeans, to expand the industrial base and support the defense of Ukraine and Europe," the US representative added.

The parties have already discussed these options during meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Ukrainian authorities in Kyiv. Companies possessing the necessary technologies are also involved in the dialogue. Witaker expressed confidence that work on agreements is underway and the parties are moving forward.

Strategy for the near future

Given the impossibility of quickly launching production in Ukraine, the priority for the US remains the rapid provision of Kyiv with air defense means. The strategy includes two main directions:

  • Transfer of missiles to allies who have excess stocks.
  • Increasing production volumes at American enterprises.

Earlier, US House of Representatives member Mike Turner confirmed that Washington and Kyiv continue to discuss the possible transfer of technologies. He urged the administration and the Pentagon to accelerate this process, noting the critical importance of such technologies for strengthening Ukraine's air defense.