The first units of the Patriot defence system due to be set up in Slovakia are being delivered to the country, Defence Minister Jaroslav Naď reported on Sunday. According to him, the process will continue over the next few days. The air defence system will be temporarily deployed at Sliač air base, central Slovakia. "Further areas of deployment are currently being consulted with experts on the Patriot system's capabilities so that the protective umbrella can cover as much of the Slovak territory as possible, including priority objects that require protection," explained Naď. In this vein, the minister remarked that the Patriot system is not a replacement for Slovakia's S-300 missiles system as it is only meant to supplement it.
"However, given the (the S-300's) age, technical condition, inadequate capabilities and also its de facto dependence on the Russian Federation, which is absolutely unacceptable for any military cooperation after the unprovoked aggression in Ukraine, we will strive to replace it in the future with another system. It should be fully compatible with our allies and would ensure better protection," claimed the minister.
Source: TASR
