EU needs system like Israels Iron Dome says defence chief as Russia threat grows | World | News [Video]

European Union leaders should install short-range air systems in member, similar to the so-called Iron Dome which protects Israel, a defence company boss has said.

Putin has launched numerous drone and missile strikes on Ukraine since the start of his invasion on February 24, 2022, including 320 Shahed UAVs, 136 loitering munitions, and 900 guided aerial bombs since the start of the month, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

While there have been no incidents targeting countries within the European Union, beginning of March, Armin Papperger, Rheinmetall AG’s Chief Executive Officer, appeared to suggest the bloc’s leaders needed to prepare for such an eventuality.

Speaking to the Financial Times, Mr Papperger, who heads up Europe’s largest munitions manufacturer, said short-range air defence was “something that needs to be created in Europe.”

He explained: “I also think it’s a good idea to have a European solution similar to Iron Dome and beyond.”

The Iron Dome, which has been used regularly by Israelto intercept such …