OREANDA-NEWS The US Army intends to increase the number of battalions equipped with Patriot anti-aircraft missile systems from 15 to 18, as well as form a separate composite battalion in Guam, Defense News writes, citing Pentagon officials.

According to the publication, the new unit, designed exclusively to protect the island of Guam, will receive upgraded LTAMDS all-round radars integrated with the IBCS combat control system, as well as IFPC short-range air defense systems.

"The battalion is designed exclusively to protect Guam and is not included in the total number of 18 Patriot battalions," a representative of the US Army said in an interview with the publication.

As noted, the Patriot air defense system remains a key element of the US global missile defense system. The complexes have been used by Ukraine to repel Russian attacks since 2022, and were also used in June to protect the Al-Udeid airbase in Qatar from Iranian missiles.