Ukraine Receives Urgent Military Aid Amid Rising Russian Threats
The US State Department has granted approval for an urgent sale of military goods valued at $138 million to Ukraine.
This includes primarily equipment aimed at the maintenance and modernization of its HAWK anti-aircraft defence systems, as reported by Unian.
The announcement, made by the United States, emphasises Ukraine's critical need for technical assistance to sustain its missile systems.
According to a memorandum, Ukraine urgently requires bolstering its defence capabilities against Russian missile attacks and air force operations.
In 2022, the United States commenced the delivery of HAWK interceptor missiles to Ukraine, serving as an upgrade from the Stinger air defence systems. This program utilises $138 million from the $300 million allocated in Foreign Military Financing (FMF), a component of the annual defence spending bill approved by Congress.
The HAWK anti-aircraft defence system, developed by the US Army in 1959, played a pivotal role during the Cold War as a key NATO and US air defence system.
The Ukrainian armed forces employ the third iteration of the HAWK air defence system, which commenced development in 1983 and was integrated into US Army service in 1989. This version boasts upgraded hardware and software, along with a new continuous wave radar, enabling simultaneous interception of multiple low-level targets.
Insufficient air defence capabilities in Ukraine have become a significant concern. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has underscored Russian President Vladimir Putin's attempts to exert control over the entire nation, exacerbated by the inadequate air defence infrastructure.
Recent criticism from The Washington Post has highlighted the inaction of the US House of Representatives. Urgent requirements include additional Patriot air defence missile batteries, F-16 fighter jets, and substantial ammunition for air defence, crucial as existing stocks dwindle.
Last night, the Russian Federation launched attacks on energy and transport infrastructure in Odessa and Mykolaiv, resulting in injuries to two individuals.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
