European NATO Allies sign a $5.6 billion deal for the combined purchase of 1,000 Patriot GEM-T anti-ballistic missiles
Germany, the Netherlands, Romania and Spain will receive these missiles (and how they will be used is an open question)
The agreement on Patriot missiles was signed between NSPA(NATO Support and Procurement Agency) and COMLOG, a joint venture between Raytheon, RTX and MBDA. The total value of the contract is up to USD 5.6 billion. The contract provides for the supply of 1,000 Patriot GEM-T missiles to countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, Romania and Spain.
NSPA offers a unified procurement process to countries that use Patriot missiles. This allows for economies of scale and the expansion of production of new GEM-T missiles to meet growing demand. The contract also strengthens cooperation between NATO member states.
The Patriot GEM-T is a PAC-2 (Patriot Advanced Capability 2) missile specifically designed to defeat tactical ballistic missiles. They are key elements of the Patriot system, which is used to defend against missile attacks, enemy drones and aircraft.
This agreement will provide significant benefits to Patriot missile users. The combined procurement process allows for cost savings and the expansion of new missile production to meet growing demand. The new Patriot GEM-T production facilities in Europe provide security of supply and help replenish the Patriot air defence system's stockpile. In addition, this agreement contributes to enhanced cooperation between Allies within NATO.
"The bundled procurement, in the spirit of the ESSI, offers economies of scale and supports the expansion of production capacity for new Patriot GEM-T missiles to meet increasing demandю." - NATO said in an official statement.
Source: Raytheon
