Ukraine could get major Patriot missile system boost, US approves potential sale
Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth (Photo: Getty Images)
The US State Department has approved a potential sale to Ukraine of a modernization and support package for Patriot air defense systems. The package is valued at $105 million, according to the State Department website.
“The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Ukraine of PATRIOT Air Defense System Sustainment and related equipment for an estimated cost of $105 million,” the post states.
The agency specified that the list of goods and services requested by Ukraine includes the following:
- Modernization of M901 launchers to the M903 configuration;
- Classified and unclassified lists of proposed cargo and lists of authorized stocks for ground support equipment;
- Other necessary services, support equipment, spare parts, maintenance, training, and accessories;
- Other related logistics and software support items.
The agency emphasized that the proposed sale would enhance Ukraine’s ability to counter current and future threats, arming it with more powerful capabilities for self-defense operations and ensuring regional security.
“Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of approximately five additional U.S. Government and fifteen U.S. contractor representatives to the European Combatant Command for the duration of up to one month to support training and periodic meetings,” the post states.
The State Department also noted that the Defense Security Cooperation Agency has provided the necessary certification and informed the US Congress.
Ukraine intends to order Patriot systems from the US
A week ago, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine plans to order 27 Patriot air defense systems from the US.
He also added that while these systems are being manufactured, Kyiv is considering the option of borrowing similar systems from European countries.
