The United States government has approved the sale of a $285 million air defence system to Ukraine. The system, including missiles, launchers and other related components, was approved by the U.S. State Department in October 2018. It is part of the Obama Administration’s efforts to bolster Ukraine’s air defence capabilities, in response to their ongoing conflict with neighboring Russia.
The system will provide Ukraine with an improved early warning radar that will detect and track hostile aircraft and missiles. The sale also includes 10 MIM-104F Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) missiles, 12 AN/MPQ-65 missile launch and fire control systems, six M902 Launching Stations, 12 M901 Launching Stations, and other related components and support.
The sale is part of a wider effort by the U.S. government to assist Ukraine in strengthening its defences and deterring Russian aggression. The U.S. has previously provided military and non-military aid to the country, including anti-tank missiles and other military equipment. This marks the first sale of a major air defence system to Ukraine.