Ukraine used Patriot system to shoot down Russian hypersonic missile, confirmed by Pentagon.

Ukraine Successfully Uses Patriot Missile System to Intercept Russian Kinzhal Missile

Ukrainian Air Force Commander Confirms Intercept

In a historic moment, Ukraine has successfully intercepted a Russian Kinzhal missile using the Patriot missile system. Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk confirmed that the Patriot system was used to destroy the Kinzhal missile over Kyiv on Thursday. This marks the first time that Ukraine, with the help of Western allies, has been able to stop a weapon that the Kremlin has touted as invulnerable.

Pentagon Confirms Intercept

Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder confirmed the successful interception on Tuesday, stating that “they did down a Russian missile by employing the Patriot missile defense system.” The Patriot system is part of a broader range of air defense capabilities that the United States and the international community have provided to Ukraine.

The Most Expensive Weapon Provided to Ukraine

The Patriot system, made by Raytheon, is one of the most advanced surface-to-air missile defense systems in the world. It is designed to track and intercept incoming ballistic and cruise missiles and aircraft in the air. The system is also the most expensive weapon that the U.S. has provided to Ukraine, costing roughly $1.1 billion, with $400 million for the system and $690 million for the missiles.

Ukraine Should ‘Double Down’ Amid Russian Rift

As tensions between Ukraine and Russia continue to escalate, the Ukrainian ambassador has urged his country to “double down” on its efforts to defend itself. With the successful interception of the Kinzhal missile, Ukraine has shown that it is capable of defending itself with the help of its Western allies. The Biden administration provided Ukraine with the Patriot system in December and subsequently trained them on how to use it.

Conclusion

The successful interception of the Kinzhal missile by Ukraine using the Patriot missile system is a significant moment in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. With the help of its Western allies, Ukraine has shown that it is capable of defending itself against Russia’s most sophisticated conventional weapons.

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