The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) of the Pentagon announced on 18/11 that the US Department of State had approved a potential military equipment sale worth $105 million USD to Ukraine. This contract aims to enhance Ukraine's air defense capabilities against ongoing and future threats.

Initiated at Ukraine's request, the contract includes upgrading M901 launchers to the M903 standard. It also covers the provision of ground equipment, auxiliary services, necessary spare parts, and offering training and logistical support. The DSCA stated, "This sale will improve Ukraine's capability to counter current and future threats."

This announcement does not signify that the contract has been signed or that both parties have finalized negotiation terms. The US Congress will have 30 days from receiving the notification to decide whether to block the sale. If there is no opposition from Congress, the contract will be presented to US President Donald Trump for approval.

Ukrainian soldiers next to a Patriot launcher during an event in 8/2024. Photo: *Reuters*

The upgrade from M901 to M903 is significant for Ukraine's Patriot systems. The M901 is the first-generation launcher for the Patriot system, capable of holding a maximum of four launch canisters for older PAC-2 missiles. In contrast, the M903 launcher is an extensively upgraded version, capable of firing various missile types, including the Patriot's most advanced PAC-3 MSE series.

Each M903 launcher offers greater versatility, accommodating a maximum of four PAC-2 GEM missiles, 16 PAC-3 CRI missiles, or 12 PAC-3 MSE missiles. Operators can also equip multiple missile types simultaneously on one M903 launcher, further increasing its flexibility in combat situations.

The Patriot is the most expensive weapon system provided by the US and its allies to Ukraine. Each system costs nearly $1,1 billion USD, with missiles accounting for $690 million USD and other components approximately $400 million USD. A complete Patriot battery typically includes a command vehicle, a fire control radar station, a power generator vehicle, a communications station, and six to eight launchers.

The Ukrainian military is believed to possess at least 10 Patriot systems, having received two additional systems from Germany in early November. These systems are equipped with the most advanced US-made PAC-3 MSE missiles, which boast a maximum range of 120 km against aircraft and 60 km against ballistic missiles.

Ukraine has repeatedly praised the effectiveness of the Patriot system, emphasizing it as the only weapon capable of countering Russia's Kinzhal hypersonic missiles and Iskander-M tactical ballistic missiles. However, the system faces growing challenges.

The Patriot's interception rate in Ukraine is declining due to missile depletion, while several batteries have also been attacked and destroyed by Russia. Moreover, Moscow has continuously upgraded its Iskander-M ballistic missiles, reducing the Patriot system's effectiveness below Kyiv's expectations.

Amid these challenges, President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on 10/11 that Ukraine intends to purchase 25 Patriot systems and has allocated budget for this. He also urged European partners to lend Kyiv existing systems from their inventories, to be replaced later by new systems Ukraine orders from the US manufacturer.

Nguyen Tien (According to AFP, AP)