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Canada Sends First NASAMS Air Defense System For Deployment in Ukraine.
On November 4, 2024, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed Canada’s commitment to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities by sending its first NASAMS air defense system. This announcement followed discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and was shared by Zelensky on social media. This move is part of Canada’s continued support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.
The NASAMS is a mobile air defense system that intercepts medium- to long-range aerial threats. (Picture source: US DoD)
During their exchange, Zelensky expressed gratitude to Trudeau and his team for their recent efforts in Montreal, where Canada hosted a thematic conference focused on the release of prisoners and deported persons, as part of Ukraine's Peace Formula initiative. Held from October 30 to 31, 2024, this event addressed one of the key components of the peace framework, marking a crucial step toward a comprehensive Peace Plan. Both leaders acknowledged the need to finalize a document synthesizing the results of these thematic conferences, to present it at a forthcoming Second Peace Summit, which will include broader international representation, notably from countries of the Global South.
In parallel with discussions on the Peace Formula, Trudeau announced Canada’s timeline for delivering the NASAMS system, with the transfer expected by the end of the year. Known for its precision and effectiveness in intercepting various aerial threats, the NASAMS system will significantly add to Ukraine’s air defense network as the country continues to confront ongoing threats.
The two leaders also discussed overall military support, recent developments on the battlefield, and international concerns regarding potential North Korean support for Russian efforts. Additionally, Zelensky and Trudeau reviewed cooperation opportunities under Canada’s upcoming G7 presidency in 2025, exploring ways to maintain or even increase global support for Ukraine.
The NASAMS (Norwegian Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System) is a mobile air defense system that intercepts medium- to long-range aerial threats. Developed in Norway, it uses the AIM-120C missile, known for its high-efficiency blast-fragmentation capability. It effectively protects against a wide range of targets, including aircraft, cruise missiles, and other airborne threats. Powered by a solid-fuel rocket motor, the missile can reach impressive speeds of up to Mach 2.7, or about 3,300 km/h. This speed, combined with an operational range of 180 km, enables NASAMS to respond proactively and rapidly to fast-moving threats in the airspace.
The technical design of NASAMS relies on a combination of active and passive engagement modes, allowing it to adapt targeting systems based on the threat type and operational conditions. For example, in active mode, it can autonomously target objects within its detection field, while in passive mode, it can rely on external detection sources to guide the missiles, thereby limiting its own signal emissions and increasing stealth. With a missile weight of 152 kg and relatively compact dimensions, the NASAMS system can be easily integrated into various vehicle types and both fixed and mobile installations, offering valuable flexibility for military forces on the move.
For Ukraine, the introduction of NASAMS represents a major strategic asset in a war environment where the country must constantly defend against airstrikes. With its capability to intercept Russian cruise missiles and drones, NASAMS significantly enhances Ukraine's air defense coverage and resilience, particularly in urban areas and sensitive infrastructure zones. Due to NASAMS’ mobility, Ukraine can deploy the system flexibly, responding quickly to shifts on the ground and adapting its defense in line with enemy movements. Furthermore, the missile’s range and speed allow it to detect and neutralize threats before they reach critical areas, thereby reducing potential damage to civilians and military installations.
Canada’s involvement in the NASAMS program dates back to 2023, when the country joined the United States in a joint order for the production of 10 NASAMS systems. The delivery of the first system to Ukraine underscores Canada’s steadfast support for Ukraine’s defense needs, reinforcing the shared objectives of security and peace amidst the ongoing conflict.