On Tuesday, the U.S. State Department declared that it has given the green light for a possible urgent $138 million in foreign military sales to Ukraine for the purpose of repairing its Hawk missile systems.
“Ukraine urgently needs to improve its abilities to protect against Russian missile attacks and the airborne capabilities of Russian forces. Preserving and supporting the HAWK missile system will enhance Ukraine’s capacity to safeguard its citizens and defend vital national infrastructure,” stated the State Department in a release announcing the sale.
The Hawk is a medium-range surface-to-air missile system that provides air defense, According to The Associated Press.
The funds will be allocated for engineering and integration for the system’s communications, refurbishing of the system, tool kits and test equipment, spare parts, training, and other U.S. support, as outlined in the memo.
The department indicated that the assistance will “promote the foreign policy goals and national security objectives” of the U.S. as it will enhance the security of a partner nation.
On Tuesday, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized that the “outcome of the conflict” between Ukraine and Russia “will have global implications” for America’s security, as reported by the AP.
The announcement comes just days after a Russian airstrikes assault on Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, occurred overnight on Saturday. Initial reports indicated a minimum of six fatalities and damage to buildings. Ukraine’s military stated that its air defenses intercepted 28 out of 32 drones and three of the six missiles launched by Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky cautioned this week that Ukraine will “lose the war” if U.S. lawmakers do not approve additional funding. If Ukraine fails, it could potentially draw other European countries and the U.S. into a war.
The State Department stated that the funding for the Hawk system is in the best interest of the U.S., so it waived the “congressional review requirements” under the Arms Export Control Act. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency conveyed the necessary notice to Congress about the potential sale on Tuesday.
Staff from Andover, Mass., and Huntsville, Ala., will handle the equipment for the system that will ultimately be sent to Ukraine. Several representatives will travel to Europe to assist with “training and sustainment.”
The agency stated that the $138 million is an estimate and the final amount will probably be lower “depending on final requirements, budget authority, and signed sales [agreements].”
The Hill has contacted the State Department for further comment.
