"European NATO Allies Unite to Purchase and Produce Patriot Missiles, Strengthening Ukraine's Air Defense"

European nations, in response to the ongoing conflict with Russia, have decided to manufacture their own Patriot air defense missiles under a new NATO contract. This move aims to bolster the European Sky Shield program and replenish stockpiles depleted by aid to Ukraine. A €5.1 billion deal has been struck for up to 1,000 Guidance Enhanced Missiles-T (GEM-T), with production facilities to be established in Germany. The initiative, led by Germany and excluding Poland, involves 17 European countries and strengthens NATO's integrated air and missile defense capabilities. The Patriot system has proven effective against Russian missiles in Ukraine, but there are concerns about depleting supplies due to Russia's strategy of attrition.