The USA announced the allocation of another $400 million to ensure the security and sovereignty of Ukraine. The funds will be used to build up the power of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and not only to win the war but also for a long-termed perspective future.
"Unlike the presidential spending cut authority (PDA), which the Department of defence continues to use to deliver equipment to Ukraine from Department of Defense stockpiles at historic rates, USAI is a power under which the United States buys capabilities from industry. This announcement represents the beginning of the process of awarding a contract to provide Ukraine with additional priority capabilities," the Pentagon website reports.
What Ukraine can count on in this USAI tranche:
- Modernization of the HAWK air defence missile for inclusion in future presidential reduction packages;
- 45 modernized T-72B tanks with improved optics, communications and armour;
- 1.100 Phoenix Ghost tactical drones;
- 40 armoured riverboats;
- Financing the repair of 250 M1117 armoured security vehicles;
- Tactical secure communication and surveillance systems;
- Funding for training, maintenance and support.
From February 24 to today, the total US assistance to Ukraine is more than $18.9 billion. Since 2014 (the annexation of Crimea and the occupation of Donetsk/Luhansk), Ukraine has received more than $21 billion from the US.
Through the PDA and USAI, the Pentagon continues to regulate with Ukraine to meet its urgent and long-term priorities. The air defence system is critical, as Ukraine is currently under a hail of Russian missile and drone attacks.
"Together with our allies and partners, our efforts will help Ukraine continue to succeed today, building an unbreakable Ukrainian force to ensure the continued freedom and independence of the Ukrainian people."
The sponsorship of the proposed HAWK missile is part of Spain's offer to install the HAWK in Ukraine. Holland, with the support of the government/industry of the Czech Republic, will provide Ukraine with 45 units of T-72Bs.
