Ukraine will service American air defense systems at home together with developers from US - DE

From now on, Ukraine will independently finance not only the purchase of American weapons, but also the maintenance and repair of already received military equipment.

This is reported by the Defense Express website with reference to the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).

DSCA has already agreed on two large packages related to the maintenance of air defense systems (ADS) and M109 self-propelled artillery installations. The total maximum cost of services is up to USD 330 million. The actual costs will depend on the terms of the final contract.

The largest part of the amount - up to USD 180 million - is provided for technical support of American-made air defense. This package includes:

- purchase of equipment and components;

- repair work;

- training of Ukrainian specialists and provision of training equipment.

The order will be executed by the American company Sierra Nevada Corporation - a well-known Pentagon contractor, which, in particular, is working on the creation of US air command centers. Part of the work will also be entrusted to Ukrainian enterprises - this will allow partial localization of the service in Ukraine.

It is not disclosed which air defense systems will be serviced. However, the Armed Forces of Ukraine currently use a whole range of American complexes: from portable Stinger and mobile Vampire installations to Patriot and FrankenSAM missile systems.

Up to USD 150 million was allowed to be spent on maintenance and repair of the M109 self-propelled guns - including major repairs. The following contractors were selected:

- BAE Systems (developer of the M109);

- Daimler Truck North America and Allison Transmission (responsible for the chassis).

These works, as well as the previously agreed contract for the restoration of the Bradley infantry fighting vehicles for a similar amount, will be carried out in Europe. The deadlines will be determined after the signing of the final agreements.

The Armed Forces of Ukraine have already received about 90 M109 self-propelled guns in various modifications - from the older M109A3 (in particular, Norwegian) to the modern M109A6 Paladin from the United States.

To request a correction, please send an email.