Spain to send additional Hawk air defense system to Ukraine

Europe, News July 30, 2024 , by IRIA No Comments

Spain has committed to sending another Hawk air defense system to Ukraine in September, as revealed by Minister of Defense Margarita Robles in a recent conversation with her Ukrainian counterpart. The move is part of a broader international effort to strengthen Ukraine’s air and missile defense capabilities amid ongoing conflicts.

The Hawk system, developed by Raytheon during the Cold War era in the mid-1950s for the U.S. Army, has undergone significant upgrades over the decades. While initially replaced by the Patriot system in 1994 for the U.S. Army and remaining operational with the U.S. Marine Corps until 2002, the Hawk system has been modernized three times, with the last upgrade occurring in 1989.

Many nations, including Spain, have already provided Ukraine with Hawk systems to enhance its short-to-medium range defense. These contributions are crucial for Ukraine, given the increasing frequency and sophistication of aerial threats it faces.

Ukraine is expected to have received the latest version of the Hawk system, which is adept at neutralizing a variety of aerial targets, such as fighter jets, helicopters, and drones. The Ukrainian Air Force has already showcased the system’s effectiveness.

In a video posted on the Ukrainian military’s official social media, a Hawk battery successfully intercepted six Iran-designed Shahid attack drones during its initial engagement. Additionally, the system has achieved notable successes in intercepting over a dozen Kh-59 air-launched cruise missiles and sea-launched Kalibr cruise missiles.

Romania Hawk-SAM — *^{Hawk-SAM being towed by a truck on the Romanian National Day parade on December 1st, at the Triumph Arch in Bucharest. (Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons)}*

The Hawk system boasts impressive specifications, capable of destroying aerial threats at distances ranging from 45 to 50 kilometers and reaching altitudes of up to 65,000 feet. With a speed of Mach 2.4 and armed with a 54-kilogram blast fragmentation warhead, the Hawk remains a formidable defense asset despite its age.

Spain’s decision to provide another Hawk system underscores the ongoing international support for Ukraine’s defense efforts. These air defense systems are pivotal in countering the diverse and persistent aerial threats that Ukraine faces, enhancing the country’s ability to protect its airspace and civilian infrastructure.

The collaboration between Spain and Ukraine is a testament to the strategic partnerships being formed in response to the current geopolitical climate. Spain’s contribution is not just a significant boost to Ukraine’s defense capabilities but also a symbol of the broader international commitment to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.

Despite its origins in the mid-20th century, the system’s continuous upgrades and adaptability to new threats have ensured its place in contemporary defense arsenals. The successful deployment and operation of the Hawk in Ukraine serve as a powerful reminder of the system’s resilience and effectiveness.