Umerov discusses bolstering Ukraine's air defense with Patriot system manufacturer

According to Ukrinform, Umerov shared details of the meeting on Facebook.

"I had an insightful conversation with the company's Vice President for Land and Air Defense Systems, Joseph DeAntona. The main topic was strengthening Ukraine's air defense. We discussed Ukraine's critical need for additional systems and missiles. This is a matter of national priority — protecting our people, critical infrastructure, cities, and villages," the minister said.

Umerov stressed that Ukraine is ready to invest in this area, as it directly concerns the lives of its citizens and the resilience of the state.

He noted that expanding cooperation between the United States and Ukraine in the defense industry is one of Ukraine's strategic courses, while deepening collaboration with Raytheon is a strategic component of such cooperation.

"Ukrainian defense companies are open to cooperation with American manufacturers to make maintenance and support of weapons faster and higher quality," Umerov wrote.

Umerov thanked DeAntona and the entire Raytheon team for a professional conversation, concrete proposals, and real work in Ukraine.

"We are doing everything to ensure Ukraine is protected, strong, and secure," he said.

Raytheon is one of the world's leading defense and industrial corporations, headquartered in the United States. The company develops advanced technologies and produces missiles, drones, air defense systems — including the Patriot system — as well as aircraft engines, avionics, cybersecurity solutions, and more.