Ukraine to receive additional Stinger missiles and ammunition by US in $125 military aid package

Europe, News, US August 10, 2024 , by IRIA No Comments

The United States announced a new $125 million military aid package for Ukraine on August 9, 2024. The latest tranche of military aid for Ukraine comes at a time when Kyiv is carrying out an aggressive attack on Russian territories.

The package was announced by the White House National Security spokesperson John Kirby during a telephonic briefing. The latest package marks the U.S.’s tenth installment of military assistance for Ukraine since President Joe Biden signed a national security supplemental in April 2023 allocating a significant budget to support Ukraine for its fight against Russia.

This military aid package is part of a broader effort by the Biden administration to supply Ukraine with critical defense capabilities as the conflict with Russia drags on. Since August 2021, the Department of Defense has provided Ukraine with several tranches of equipment through the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA), which allows for the rapid transfer of defense articles and services from U.S. stockpiles without congressional approval.

The newly announced package includes a range of advanced weaponry and equipment designed to address Ukraine’s most urgent defense needs. Among the items included are Stinger missiles, which are man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS) effective against low-flying aircraft and drones. These systems have been crucial in Ukraine’s efforts to protect its skies from Russian aerial assaults. Additionally, the package provides ammunition for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), which have proven to be highly effective in targeting Russian military positions with precision.

The aid package also includes 155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition, essential for Ukraine’s ongoing artillery operations. Multi-mission radars, another critical component of the package, will enhance Ukraine’s ability to detect and counter enemy artillery, providing a vital edge on the battlefield. The inclusion of Tube-launched, Optically tracked, Wire-guided (TOW) missiles, Javelin, and AT-4 anti-armor systems further bolsters Ukraine’s capacity to engage and destroy Russian armored vehicles.

U.S. troops fire Stinger missile from Stryker vehicle — *^{U.S. troops fire Stinger missile from their Stryker armored fighting vehicle during Saber Strike military drill in Rutja, Estonia, on March 10, 2022. (Image Credit: Reuters/Ints Kalnins)}*

In addition to weaponry, the aid package also addresses the logistical and medical needs of Ukrainian forces. High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) ambulances are included to aid in the evacuation and treatment of wounded soldiers. The package also comprises small arms ammunition, demolition equipment, and munitions, as well as equipment designed to protect critical national infrastructure, such as energy and communication networks.

The announcement of this aid package comes at a critical juncture in the conflict, as Ukraine continues to mount a robust defense against Russian forces. The U.S., along with some 50 allied nations, remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine’s efforts to reclaim its territory and defend its people. This international coalition has been instrumental in providing the resources and training needed to sustain Ukraine’s military operations.

Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, the U.S. has been at the forefront of international efforts to support Ukraine. The Biden administration’s commitment to supplying military aid has been a key factor in Ukraine’s ability to resist Russian advances. As the conflict continues, this latest aid package underscores the U.S.’s determination to ensure that Ukraine has the necessary capabilities to defend itself and to hold Russia accountable for its actions on the global stage.

This continued support not only strengthens Ukraine’s defensive posture but also sends a clear message to Russia and the world that the U.S. and its allies remain united in their opposition to Russian aggression.