What is the Patriot missile system and how does it help Ukraine

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on July 13 that he would send Patriot air defense missiles to Ukraine, a significant shift in U.S. policy amid ongoing Russian missile and drone attacks. The Patriot system, a highly advanced surface‑to‑air missile system developed by Raytheon Technologies, intercepts enemy aircraft, cruise missiles, and short‑range ballistic missiles. A standard battery includes radar, control units, launchers, and support vehicles, and is deployed by 19 countries. The system uses two main interceptors: the older PAC‑2 detonates near the target, while the newer PAC‑3 strikes directly for greater accuracy. Ukraine is believed to have newer models, though the U.S. has not confirmed which variant will be supplied. Ukrainian officials say Patriots are crucial to protect key infrastructure and cities from Russia’s aerial assaults, and in January the U.S. reportedly transferred 90 interceptors from Israel to Ukraine. A full battery costs over $1 billion, with each missile costing roughly $4 million. Russia warns that further deliveries would be seen as escalatory and could reduce chances for peace.