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Washington, DC – As a beacon of support for Ukraine amidst rising tensions, the Biden Administration through the Department of Defense (DoD) has announced today, a substantial security assistance package. This latest offering, totaling $2.1 billion, comprises essential air defense and ammunition capabilities, reflecting the unyielding U.S. backing for Ukraine during these testing times. The security package is a key part of the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI).
This USAI package emphasizes the U.S.’s enduring commitment to Ukraine’s Armed Forces. The assistance aims to fortify both immediate and long-term defense capabilities, thus empowering Ukraine to guard its territory and counteract ongoing Russian aggression.
The capabilities in this announcement include:
- Additional munitions for Patriot air defense systems;
- HAWK air defense systems and missiles;
- 105mm and 203mm artillery rounds;
- Puma Unmanned Aerial Systems;
- Laser-guided rocket system munitions;
- Support for training, maintenance, and sustainment activities.
Unlike the Presidential Drawdown authority, which allows DoD to rapidly provide equipment from its stockpile to Ukraine, the USAI signifies the commencement of a new contract process to furnish Ukraine with additional priority capabilities. Under this initiative, the U.S. will secure capabilities from industry partners or allies.
In light of the current geopolitical landscape, the United States remains devoted to cooperating with its Allies and partners. The goal is to equip Ukraine with both immediate battlefield needs and sustainable, long-term security assistance to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty.
Source: Dept. of Defense