Key facts
- The U.S. is in talks with Germany and other European nations about co-producing Raytheon's AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles.
- Discussions also include establishing a maintenance facility for Lockheed's PAC-3 Patriot missiles in Europe.
- These projects aim to free up capacity at U.S. factories and increase domestic production.
- A statement of intent will be signed at a NATO Industry Forum.
- Both missile types are in high demand for Ukraine's defense against Russian attacks.
Europe is increasingly concerned that the U.S. defense industrial base may struggle to meet its commitments to NATO allies due to depleted stockpiles. This concern is amplified by the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Iran, which have strained U.S. weapon inventories. Key arms shipments, including Tomahawk and Patriot PAC-3 missiles, have faced delays or cancellations for European nations.
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has highlighted the critical shortage of interceptor missiles, stating the country could not intercept numerous ballistic missiles in a recent attack. European diplomats have expressed quiet frustration over these shortages, citing competing demands and a potential shift in U.S. focus towards Asia and allies like Israel. It is estimated that Europe may require five to ten years to establish new defense production lines.
U.S. President Donald Trump has consistently urged European allies to increase their defense spending and buy more American equipment, at times threatening to withdraw from NATO. The U.S. has also invoked the Defense Production Act to address constraints in munitions production and supply chains. The U.S. reportedly used approximately 50% of its Patriot PAC-3 missiles by April during its conflict with Iran. The Center for Strategic and International Studies estimates it could take 42 months for the U.S. to replenish its Patriot missile stockpiles, with around 20 countries awaiting deliveries.