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US announces new $1.85 billion arms package for Ukraine

21.12.2022 22:00
The United States on Wednesday announced a new USD 1.85 billion arms package for Ukraine's defence against Russia.
US President Joe Biden (right) and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky (left) meet at the White House on Wednesday.
US President Joe Biden (right) and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky (left) meet at the White House on Wednesday.Photo: EPA/Oliver Contreras

According to a statement by the US Department of Defense, the new security assistance package includes a Patriot air defense system and additional ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), in addition to 50,000 GRAD rockets and more than 200,000 rounds of various types of ammunition.

Washington will also provide Kyiv with "500 precision-guided 155mm artillery rounds; 10 120mm mortar systems and 10,000 120mm mortar rounds; 10 82mm mortar systems; 10 60mm mortar systems; 37 Cougar Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Vehicles; 120 High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWVs); and six armored utility trucks," the Pentagon said.

Other equipment includes "high-speed anti-radiation missiles (HARMs); precision aerial munitions; over 2,700 grenade launchers and small arms; Claymore anti-personnel munitions; demolition munitions and equipment; night vision devices and optics; tactical secure communications systems; and body armor and other field equipment," according to the statement.

'One of the world's most advanced air defense capabilities'

"The Patriot air defense system in this security assistance package is one of the world's most advanced air defense capabilities," the Pentagon's statement said"Once operational, it will add to a layered defense to counter the full range of threats currently menacing Ukraine's cities and civilians."

The United States has now committed more than USD 21.9 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s invasion on February 24, according to officials.

"To meet Ukraine's evolving battlefield requirements, the United States will continue to work with its allies and partners to provide Ukraine with key capabilities," the Pentagon said in its statement.

The new security assistance package was announced as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was visiting the United States on Wednesday in his first known foreign trip since Russia invaded his country more than 300 days ago.

(gs)

Source: PAPdefense.gov