Photo: EPA
The US State Department has approved the possible sale of 500 advanced PAC-3 MSE interceptor missiles for Ukraine’s Patriot air defense systems, in a deal valued at approximately $2.1 billion.
The proposed sale includes the missiles, spare parts and related logistical support, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced. The approval is expected to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend against aerial attacks.
The deal follows a formal request from the Ukrainian government. According to the DSCA, the sale would support US foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the security of a partner country that is a key factor in European stability.
Who will fund the purchase?
The entire procurement will be financed by international partners and allies, with no cost to the US federal budget.
The funding is expected to come from:
- Canada
- Germany
- Norway, through the JUMPSTART program and national funds financed by an EU loan supporting Ukraine.
Contract implementation
The new missiles are expected to strengthen Ukraine’s integrated air and missile defense capabilities against current and future aerial threats. Ukrainian forces will be able to integrate the equipment into their units without requiring additional US military personnel or instructors to be deployed in Ukraine.
US defense contractor Lockheed Martin has been named the principal contractor. Washington said it was not currently aware of any offset agreements, although such arrangements could be negotiated directly between the buyer and the contractor.
The US government also said the proposed sale would not negatively affect the combat readiness of the American military.
The announcement comes as Ukraine continues to seek additional air defense missiles for near-term delivery. The Netherlands has said it will provide equipment from its own stocks and is also contacting partners in the EU, NATO and beyond.
