US approves sale of M109 Howitzer and air defense support packages to Ukraine
US-manufactured M109 self-propelled howitzer (photo: CinCAFU)
On July 24, the US Department of State approved the sale of two arms packages to Ukraine. The first is intended for the M109 self-propelled artillery systems previously provided to Ukraine, and the second is for air defense needs, according to the Pentagon's first and second press releases.
The air defense package is valued at $180 million. It includes the procurement of equipment and services "to support the training, sustainment, and refurbishment measures of existing US-origin air defense systems."
According to the Pentagon, the package will include:
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significant modifications and maintenance;
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spare parts, consumables, and accessories;
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repair support and return;
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personnel training and training equipment;
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engineering, technical, and logistical services from the US government and contractors;
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other related logistics and program support elements.
The second package is valued at approximately $150 million. It includes equipment for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of M109 self-propelled howitzers — many of which were transferred to Ukraine by the US and its allies.
"The Government of Ukraine has requested to buy equipment and services for the refurbishment of M109 self-propelled howitzers, technical assistance, training, publications, and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total cost is $150 million," the statement said.
It is noted that the arms sale to Ukraine serves US interests. Ukraine requires enhanced capabilities to defend itself against adversaries.
"Ukraine will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces. The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region," the statement added.
This marks the third and fourth arms packages approved by the United States. On July 23, the State Department and Pentagon approved two other military aid packages for Ukraine totaling $322 million.
The resumption of US arms deliveries to Ukraine followed a phone conversation between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. After the call, Trump announced plans to increase the supply of American weapons to help Ukraine defend itself against Russian attacks and unveiled a new military aid package worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
