WASHINGTON- The United States has approved the possible sale of air-defence development upgrades and related equipment to Ukraine at an estimated cost of $2.68 billion.
The US Department of State said the proposed Foreign Military Sale would provide Ukraine with missiles, mobile launch systems, counter-drone radars and technical support.
If concluded, the purchase would be financed using a combination of contributions from European countries and US Foreign Military Financing funds appropriated during the previous American administration.
The Foreign Military Financing contribution would be counted as a US capital contribution to the Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund through a one-to-one reimbursement arrangement, according to the State Department.
Missiles and counter-drone radars
Ukraine has requested S-300 Clone missiles, GAM-67 missiles and range-extended air-defence laser-guided rocket missile systems.
The proposed package also includes Improvised Transporter Erector Launcher 1.5 systems, modification kits for mobile launchers and RPS 202 radars designed to counter unmanned aircraft.
Other items include erectable mast trailers, major equipment modifications, maintenance support, spare parts, consumables, accessories and repair-and-return services.
Software, publications, transportation assistance and engineering, technical and logistical support from the US government and contractors are also included.
The listed weapons and systems are categorised as non-major defence equipment under the proposed sale.
Contractors to be selected competitively
The State Department said the principal contractors for the programme would be selected through a competitive process.
The approval represents authorisation for a possible transaction and does not mean a final contract has been signed or that all the listed equipment will ultimately be supplied.
The final value could change depending on Ukraine’s requirements, available funding and the agreements reached during negotiations.
The announcement comes as Ukraine continues to strengthen its defences against Russian missiles and drones targeting cities, energy installations and other infrastructure.
The US government has used the Foreign Military Sales programme to provide allies and partners with American defence equipment, services and training through government-to-government agreements.
The proposed $2.68 billion package is intended to expand Ukraine’s ability to detect and intercept aerial threats while supporting the maintenance and modernisation of its existing air-defence network.
