European nations, including EU member states and the UK, have nearly matched the total value of U.S. military aid to Ukraine, amounting to approximately $67 billion compared to the U.S. figure of $69 billion as of February 2023. However, the disparity lies in the capacity to supply critical weaponry and munitions. Germany, the largest European donor, allocated €12.6 billion in military assistance, with 38% directed towards air defense systems, primarily the IRIS-T and Patriot missile systems. Despite this support, Germany has supplied 328 Patriot interceptors since February 2022, significantly trailing the U.S., which has delivered over 847 PAC-3 interceptors valued at around $3.26 billion. The timeline for Germany to match U.S. deliveries could exceed seven years, particularly as domestic production of interceptors is not expected to commence until 2027. Regarding artillery, while the number of howitzers provided by European allies is approaching that of the U.S., the total artillery shells supplied is markedly lower; the U.S. has delivered over 3 million 155mm shells alone. Although the EU aims to ramp up its munitions production, it will likely take a minimum of a year to fill the gaps left by U.S. support. With Lockheed Martin holding a dominant position in GMLRS missile production, European countries face significant challenges in replenishing stocks, as U.S. external military sales dictate potential acquisitions for Ukraine. This strategic bottleneck emphasizes the critical need for European nations to enhance their defense manufacturing capabilities to maintain effective military support for Ukraine.
