The MIM-104 Patriot is a surface-to-air missile system, the primary of its kind used by the United States Army and several allied states. It is manufactured by the U.S. defence contractor Raytheon and derives its name from the radar component of the weapon system. WikipediaManufacturer: Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, and BoeingDesigned: 1969Produced: 1976In service: Since 1981; initial operational capacity 1984.

Purpose: While initially designed as an antiaircraft system, newer variants of Patriot are capable of engaging ballistic and cruise missiles, loitering munitions, and aircraft. A typical Patriot battery includes a radar set, engagement control station, power generation and other support vehicles, and several launch stations.

Issues: On February 25, 1991, during the Gulf War, an American Patriot Missile battery in Dharan, Saudi Arabia, failed to track and intercept an incoming Iraqi Scud missile. The Scud struck an American Army barracks, killing 28 soldiers and injuring around 100 other people.