The Defense Department has announced a new $2.3 billion military aid package for Ukraine, mostly funding a large purchase of air defense interceptors.
The package, first announced by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Tuesday, would immediately transfer U.S. weapons valued at $150 million via presidential drawdown authority, while $2.2 billion in aid would be provided through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.
The $2.2 billion USAI action, which contracts with defense companies to provide Ukraine with long-term aid, would pay for a “significant package of air defense interceptors,” according to DOD.
“This funding will be used to purchase interceptors for Patriot and [National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems] for Ukraine,” DOD said.
The Biden administration, as previously announced, plans to accelerate delivery of the interceptors by “re-sequencing” foreign military sales involving other U.S. allies.
“As a result, Ukraine will be provided with the interceptors it urgently needs to protect its people and critical infrastructure against Russia's aerial attacks,” DOD said.
Meanwhile, the $150 million PDA transfer includes: