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Exclusive: Lockheed Martin supports granting Ukraine Patriot missile licenses, official says
The Kyiv Independent • • world
Key Points:
- The U.S. has initiated the process of granting Ukraine licenses to produce Patriot missiles, advancing beyond political statements, according to a senior Ukrainian official.
- Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of Patriot missiles, supports granting Ukraine the licenses, and the process is expected to be quicker than previously speculated.
- President Donald Trump announced on July 8 that he would approve Ukraine's request to produce American Patriot missiles, which have been vital in defending against Russian ballistic attacks.
- Domestic production of Patriot interceptors in Ukraine would reduce reliance on U.S. manufacturers and allow Ukraine to utilize its growing defense industry amid high demand and limited interceptor stocks.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the U.S. decision as historic, emphasizing its importance in saving thousands of lives during the ongoing conflict.
