US and Ukraine working to replace S-300 air defense systems, Secretary Austin says
US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin (Getty Images)
The United States and Ukraine are working together to replace the S-300 air defense systems and R-27 missiles, according to US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin.
"With help from several European companies, the United States is working with Ukraine to design and build a substitute for the S-300 surface-to-air missile system and the R-27 air-to-air missile," Austin said.
The US has allocated more than $200 million to acquire critical components that will allow Ukraine to produce drones and electronic warfare systems, which have been deployed effectively.
"Our National Armaments Directors are working in lockstep with the Capability Coalitions to meet these needs and speed up deliveries. So I look forward to discussing ways to strengthen Ukraine's defense industrial base as well as all of our own," Austin said. "Friends, this is a critical moment. Time is of the essence, especially with winter on its way. And we must all step up our support — and quickly."
About S-300 and R-27 missiles
The S-300 is a family of Soviet medium-range surface-to-air missile systems. Serial production of the S-300PT system began in 1975. Testing was completed in 1978, and by 1979, the first S-300 regiment was on combat duty. Depending on the specific installation type and interceptor missiles, the maximum range can reach 150, 200, or even 300 km.
The R-27 is a Soviet medium-range air-to-air guided missile developed by the State Design Bureau Vympel. It is produced by the Artem company in Kyiv and the Vympel company in Moscow. These missiles—R-27T, R-27R, and R-27P—are designed to engage air targets (highly maneuverable aircraft, helicopters, etc.) at any time of day, at altitudes ranging from 20 m to 25 km, with a maximum target elevation of 10 km and a speed of up to 3,500 km/h. Two missiles can be launched at two different targets simultaneously. The missiles are carried by aircraft such as the Su-27, Su-33, Su-34, Su-35, MiG-29, and Yak-141.
Background
US President Joe Biden will announce a new package of military aid to Ukraine worth $250 million.
As Reuters previously reported, Biden is negotiating with Congress to authorize using $6 billion in aid to Ukraine. The matter must be agreed on September 30, when the deadline expires.
