Taiwan emerges as key supporter of Ukraine's Air Defense with HAWK Missile Systems.

According to information published by Forbes on November 12, 2024, Taiwan has potentially become a key contributor to Ukraine’s air defense capabilities by donating a substantial number of HAWK surface-to-air missile systems. According to former Pentagon official Tony Hu, these HAWK systems, part of Taiwan’s surplus arsenal, have been transferred to Ukraine to reinforce its defense against aerial threats. This development, hints at a broader, U.S.-facilitated agreement to enhance Ukraine’s air defense structure amidst ongoing hostilities.
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Taiwan's donation of HAWK missile systems provides a critical boost to Ukraine's air defense, reinforcing Kyiv's ability to counter aerial threats amid ongoing conflict. (Picture source: US DoD)

The consignment, which includes MIM-23 “Homing All-the-Way Killer” (HAWK) missiles, launchers, and radar systems, complements previous HAWK donations from the United States and Spain. With this influx of HAWK batteries, Ukraine could soon deploy up to 15 such systems, each equipped with multiple three-missile launchers and their associated radars. This addition marks a critical enhancement to Ukraine’s existing air-defense network, which has been continuously strained since the start of the conflict in February 2022.

Before the conflict, Ukraine’s air-defense systems largely consisted of Soviet-era models like the S-300, which have since experienced substantial combat losses. However, Ukraine has managed to offset these losses by acquiring Western air-defense technology, including American-made Patriot missile systems. If the overall structure of Ukraine’s air-defense force remains unchanged, Taiwan’s HAWK systems could now represent nearly a third of Ukraine's operational surface-to-air missile force. Though Taiwan has kept a low profile regarding support for Ukraine, this contribution demonstrates its significant, if understated, role in bolstering Kyiv’s defense.

Despite its age, the HAWK missile system—first deployed over 60 years ago—remains effective, particularly against slower targets like drones, cruise missiles, and manned aircraft. The missile’s versatility is further enhanced by its compatibility with another modern system in Ukraine’s arsenal, the U.S.-Norwegian National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). The HAWK’s adaptability and ease of upgrades make it an invaluable asset for a country dealing with diverse aerial threats.

Reports from as early as mid-2023 indicated ongoing negotiations between the United States and Taiwan, aiming to procure Taiwan’s retired HAWK systems. Taiwan, having replaced many of its HAWK units with locally designed systems and imported NASAMS, had a substantial surplus of the HAWK missiles and associated equipment. With around 100 launchers in total, the donation helps address a critical need for Ukraine, which faced dwindling missile stocks for its Soviet-era S-300 and Buk systems.

The HAWK missile transfer signifies more than just military aid—it reflects a quiet but strategic collaboration between Taiwan, the United States, and Ukraine. While Taiwan may not vocalize its support for Ukraine, its donation of HAWK systems is a substantial boost to Ukraine’s defensive capabilities in its ongoing conflict