In a significant move to bolster Ukraine's air defense capabilities, the United States and its partners have announced plans to supply Ukraine with dozens of tactical air defense systems. These systems include the Patriot, Samp-T, Nasams, Hawk, Irisi T-Slm, Iris T-Sls, and Gepard. This announcement was made during a NATO summit, where the White House confirmed that Italy would provide another Samp-T weapons system to Ukraine. The US will also reschedule deliveries of critical air defense interceptors in coordination with its partners to ensure they reach Ukraine promptly.
The NATO summit in Washington, hosted by US President Joe Biden, is focusing on enhancing the alliance's efficiency and increasing support for Ukraine amidst escalating Russian attacks. Despite Ukraine's efforts to join NATO, it is unlikely to receive an invitation from the military alliance. However, Ukraine is pinning its hopes on the new air defense systems as concrete support from NATO. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is attending the summit, which marks the 75th anniversary of the transatlantic alliance. A key discussion point is strengthening NATO's role in coordinating support for the development of Ukrainian armed forces capable of repelling Russian aggression.
The urgency of bolstering Ukraine's air defenses was underscored by recent Russian airstrikes on Kyiv and other cities, which resulted in the deaths of at least 37 people, including three children, and injuries to 170 others. The attacks included the destruction of the Okhmatdyt Children's Hospital in Kyiv. President Joe Biden condemned the missile attacks as a 'horrific reminder of Russia's brutality' and announced measures to strengthen Ukraine's defenses. Ukrainian air defenses reportedly repelled about 80 percent of the 38 missiles fired in a nationwide attack.
President Zelensky has been vocal about the need for more air defense systems to protect Ukraine's population and critical infrastructure from Russian attacks. He has specifically called for at least seven more Patriot batteries to complement the systems already delivered from the US, Germany, and the Netherlands. The United States is considering providing Ukraine with another Patriot battery, which is crucial for intercepting Russia's most modern missiles.
In addition to air defense systems, Ukraine is awaiting deliveries of Western fighter jets, including the F-16 Fighting Falcon and possibly the Eurofighter Typhoon. These deliveries are the result of intensive negotiations between Ukraine and Western partners such as the USA, the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, and Belgium. This landmark agreement marks a significant step in strengthening Ukraine's military capabilities against Russian aggression.
