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United States Announces New Massive Aid to Ukraine to Improve Air Defense Systems.
On October 16, 2024, the U.S. Department of Defense approved a new military aid package worth $425 million to support Ukraine's defense efforts against ongoing Russian military aggression. This latest package, the 67th since August 2021, reflects Washington's consistent commitment to strengthening Ukraine's military capabilities amid the ongoing conflict.
National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems. (Picture source: US DoD)
This new tranche of aid aims to improve Ukraine's air defense systems, air-to-ground weapons, rocket system munitions, artillery supplies, armored vehicles, as well as anti-tank weapon systems. The Pentagon emphasized that these resources will be essential in meeting Ukraine's evolving battlefield needs. This effort is part of a broader collaboration with approximately 50 allied nations through the Ukraine Defense Contact Group and other military capability coalitions.
Among the air defense systems included in the package are the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS), RIM-7 missiles, and Stinger anti-aircraft missiles. These systems aim to enhance Ukraine's defense against Russian aerial attacks, including threats from drones and missiles.
Additionally, the aid package will include munitions for the High-Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), which have become one of Ukraine's most effective tools in its counteroffensive efforts. Further artillery support includes 155mm and 105mm shells, crucial for ground operations. The package also includes air-to-ground munitions, Tube-launched, Optically-tracked, Wire-guided (TOW) missiles, as well as Javelin and AT-4 anti-tank systems, all critical for Ukraine's defense against Russian armored units.
Beyond advanced weaponry, the United States will provide small arms, ammunition, grenades, thermal imaging systems, and various training equipment. High-Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWVs) will also be delivered to assist in troop mobility and logistics. Additional support includes demolition equipment, spare parts, and essential logistical services, ensuring that Ukraine can maintain and efficiently use the provided equipment.
President Joe Biden reaffirmed the United States' unwavering support for Ukraine during a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The two leaders discussed the strategic importance of intensifying security assistance as Ukraine prepares to continue its defense operations. The White House also indicated that future support would include hundreds of air-defense interceptors, tactical air-defense systems, artillery systems, as well as thousands of armored vehicles and infantry fighting vehicles, designed to bolster Ukraine’s operational capacity on the front lines.
This military assistance highlights the strategic significance of enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities, a key element in ongoing efforts to maintain the country's resilience against Russian aggression.