U.S. approves potential $108 million sale of Hawk air defense systems to Ukraine
The U.S. State Department has approved a potential sale of MIM-23 Hawk medium-range air defense systems and associated equipment to Ukraine, valued at an estimated $108.1 million, the department announced.
Ukraine's government submitted a request that included:
- Erectable mast trailers
- Major modifications and maintenance support
- Spare parts, consumables and accessories
- Repair and return support
- U.S. government and contractor engineering, technical and logistics support services
- Other related elements of logistics and program support for FrankenSAM HAWK missile systems
"This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a partner country that is a force for political and economic stability in Europe," the department said.
The equipment will enhance Ukraine's ability to counter aerial threats without altering the "basic military balance in the region," it added.
The MIM-23 Hawk is an American medium-range surface-to-air missile system capable of engaging targets at distances of up to 25 to 30 miles (40–50 km), depending on the missile variant.
The system is already in active use by Ukraine's Air Force for air defense; its components can be rapidly transported on trailers or trucks.