RTX business unit Raytheon has been awarded a $529m (€508m) contract to deliver a Patriot air and missile defence system fire unit, along with associated support equipment, to the Netherlands.  

This agreement is part of an effort to replace a Patriot fire unit that was previously donated to Ukraine.  

The contract, a direct commercial sale, encompasses a radar set, multiple launchers, command and control stations, and additional support gear.  

Work stipulated in the contract will take place in Andover, Massachusetts, and Huntsville, Alabama. 

Deliveries of all parts are planned to take place in 2029, the Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) said. 

The Dutch MoD noted that the package is being acquired directly from the supplier, Raytheon, as it will enable units in the Netherlands to access the equipment on an expedited timeline. 

Raytheon Global Patriot senior vice-president Pete Bata said: “Raytheon is committed to partnering with the Dutch as they continue to advance their integrated air and missile defence capabilities. 

“The Netherlands' investment in Patriot ensures collective security and deterrence across Europe.” 

The Patriot system is a ground-based air and missile defence platform designed to counter long-range cruise missiles, tactical ballistic missiles, and various airborne threats.  

Currently, 19 countries rely on Patriot for their air defence capabilities. 

The Patriot missile defence system is noted to have been engaged in more than 250 combat instances by five nations, targeting crewed and uncrewed aircraft, cruise missiles, and tactical ballistic missiles.  

In late August 2024, the US State Department authorised the sale of two Patriot launching stations to the Netherlands. Lockheed-Martin Missiles and Fire Control and RTX are the prime contractors for the sale valued at $224m.