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The United States has approved a potential $2.7 billion military sale to Ukraine, aimed largely at strengthening Kyiv's air-defence capabilities amid the continuing Russia-Ukraine war.
The US State Department notified Congress of the proposed deal late Friday, September 18. The package includes air-defence development upgrades, related equipment and services, as well as systems intended to counter missiles and drones.
The proposed package reportedly includes S-300-compatible missiles, GAM-67 missiles, range-extended air-defence laser-guided rocket systems, launcher and mobile-launching-system modification kits, and counter-drone radar systems.
According to the State Department notification, Ukraine would finance the purchase through a combination of European contributions and US Foreign Military Financing (FMF) that was appropriated during former President Joe Biden's administration.
The FMF mechanism provides grant assistance that allows partner countries to purchase US-produced defence equipment. The US said the funding would also be connected to the US-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund, established under a minerals agreement between Washington and Kyiv.
Despite the State Department's approval, the proposed package is not yet a completed arms sale. It remains subject to review by the US Congress before moving forward.
The announcement comes as Ukraine continues to face intensive Russian missile and drone attacks, making air and missile defence a central issue in the country's military strategy.
Reuters has also reported that the war has highlighted Ukraine's shortage of advanced air-defence interceptors and Europe's reliance on systems such as the US-made Patriot. European countries have been pursuing additional alternatives and joint air-defence projects as the conflict continues.
The latest US move therefore represents a significant potential expansion of Ukraine's defensive capabilities, while the congressional review will determine whether the proposed $2.7 billion package ultimately proceeds.
