Washington's decision to end arms donations to Ukraine and switch to sales applies not only to future weapons provisions but also to the maintenance of previously delivered systems. The preparations to contract services for maintenance, repairs, and procurement of spare parts are underway.
Recently, the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has issued two approvals related to the upkeep of air defense systems and M109 self-propelled howitzers. The estimated total cost is $330 million, though the final figure under firm contracts may be lower.
Read more: Ukraine to Buy MIM-23 HAWK For $172 mln: Key Details of the Deal With Greek Execution
The $180 million permit for air defense sustainment deserves particular attention. It covers the procurement of "equipment and services to support the training, sustainment, and refurbishment measures of existing U.S.-origin air defense systems." Training is required because several Ukrainian companies will be involved in providing these services locally.
The choice of main contractor is also interesting: Sierra Nevada Corporation. Although not a manufacturer of air defense systems, it is known as an ambitious U.S. Department of Defense contractor that takes on complex projects. Among them, the development of the so-called "Doomsday plane" to replace the E-4 Advanced Airborne Command Post (AACP), aka Nightwatch.
The specific air defense systems covered by the permit are not named, but Ukraine currently operates a range of American-made systems. These include everything from Stinger MANPADS and APKWS-equipped Vampire systems to Patriot anti-ballistic batteries. Also in service are systems from the FrankenSAM family — one known representative is the Buk-M1 modified to launch RIM-7 or AIM-7 air-to-air missiles.
For a reminder, Ukraine also recently received U.S. approval to purchase the MIM-23 HAWK air defense system, along with services for missile refurbishment and other repairs, for $172 million. That work will be carried out in Greece.
Regarding M109 self-propelled guns, the second DSCA notice approves the sale of maintenance, repair, and overhaul services worth up to $150 million. The work will be handled by BAE Systems, which holds the rights to manufacture and upgrade the M109, as well as Daimler Truck North America and Allison Transmission, which support the chassis.
Same as with the earlier $150 million contract for restoring M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicles for Ukraine, the M109 work will be conducted in Europe. Timelines will only be determined after firm contracts are signed. The number of units to be serviced is not specified, but Ukraine has received around 90 M109s in total, in variants ranging from the Norwegian-supplied M109A3 to the U.S.-provided M109A6 Paladin.
Read more: How Many Bradley IFVs Can Ukraine Buy for $150 Million?
