The State Department has approved an urgent $138 million foreign military sales package for Ukraine, enabling essential repairs and the procurement of spare parts necessary for Hawk missile systems.
"Ukraine has an urgent need to increase its capabilities to defend against Russian missile strikes and the aerial capabilities of Russian forces. Maintaining and sustaining the HAWK missile system will enhance Ukraine’s ability to defend its people and protect critical national infrastructure," the State Department said in a release on April 9 announcing the sale.
The HAWK is a medium range, surface-to-air guided missile that provides air defense coverage against low-to-medium-altitude aircraft.
Both the State and Defense Departments have been exploring avenues to maintain support for Ukraine amidst a delay in Congress concerning a $60 billion aid package for the country.
During a Capitol Hill hearing on April 9, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the critical importance of support for Ukraine, warning that without it, the United States faces the risk of Ukraine being overtaken by Russia.
"Ukraine matters, and the outcome of the conflict in Ukraine will have global implications for our national security as well," Austin added, according to Associated Press.
Contractors from the Massachusetts-based RTX Corporation, formerly known as Raytheon, and PROJECTXYZ based in Huntsville, Alabama, will undertake the work on the Hawk systems.
Dmytro Basmat
(Updated: )
