Ankara: Poland is reportedly set to supply Ukraine with several PAC-3 interceptor missiles from its US-made Patriot air defense systems as part of a substantial new military aid package. According to TVP, a Polish broadcaster, this planned package is valued at approximately £50 million ($58 million) and is primarily focused on enhancing Ukraine's air defense capabilities.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry highlighted the significance of this aid package, noting that it aims to bolster its defense against ongoing Russian missile and drone attacks. The Polish Defense Ministry acknowledged the preparation of a new military support package but remained discreet about the specific equipment to be included, citing concerns over official secrecy.

The Polish ministry further clarified to the daily Rzeczpospolita that the package would consist of equipment being phased out by the Polish Armed Forces due to the expiration of their service life. While these items will no longer serve Poland, they are still deemed useful for Ukraine's defense needs. Among the equipment considered for transfer are PAC-3 interceptors for Poland's Patriot systems, as confirmed by sources familiar with the arrangements.

Maj. Gen. Ireneusz Nowak, Poland's operational commander, expressed support for providing Patriot ammunition to Ukraine, though he emphasized that the quantity of missiles would be limited. "No one is talking about mass donations," he remarked.

In recent months, Poland has already contributed to Ukraine's defense by supplying five PAC-3 missiles in July. Ukraine has been actively seeking additional air defense munitions from its allies to replenish its stocks in anticipation of a potential Russian winter campaign targeting civilian and energy infrastructure.

Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz previously stated in July that Poland had extended approximately £3.8 billion ($4.4 billion) in military aid to Ukraine, underscoring the country's commitment to supporting its neighboring nation in the face of ongoing conflict.