In order to strengthen NATO's air defense, the defense alliance wants to buy new Patriot missiles for 5.5 billion dollars. Up to 1,000 anti-aircraft missiles will be purchased jointly by member states, the Luxembourg-based NATO procurement agency NSPA announced today. The contract is one of NSPA's largest financial acquisitions, he said.
This also included testing equipment and spare parts to support future maintenance, and new suppliers will also be brought in. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed the alliance partners' announcement. “This investment shows the strength of transatlantic defense cooperation and NATO’s commitment to the security of our people.” Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian civilians, cities and towns have demonstrated the importance of modern air defense.
“Economies of scale achieved”
Several NATO member states have commissioned the agency to purchase anti-aircraft systems. NSPA CEO Stacy A. Cummings said the contract demonstrates that NSPA can successfully provide effective and cost-effective multinational solutions to nations while strengthening European industrial capabilities. “Client nations have achieved economies of scale, reduced their logistical effort and received competent solutions and support within a proven, ready-to-use legal framework.”