The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), along with the authorization to purchase the MIM-23 HAWK air defense system, also published a permit for Ukraine to purchase Bradley infantry fighting vehicles.
It refers to the possibility of purchasing an unspecified number of these IFVs, along with maintenance and repair services, for a total of up to $150 million. It is important to note that DSCA authorization sets an upper limit — the final contract may, but doesn't necessarily, reach that amount.
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The main contractors for this agreement include the British company BAE Systems, which currently holds the rights to produce and upgrade the Bradley IFV; the American company Cummins, which manufactures engines for these IFVs; the Italian company Leonardo DRS, responsible for supplying sights; and the German company Renk, which provides the suspension and transmission systems. At the same time, it is noted that all work will be carried out in Europe.
However, the key issue remains quantity. Given the content of the permit, the process involves purchasing old, decommissioned Bradley IFVs, followed by their repair and restoration.
This mechanism has long been tested in the U.S. and is offered to partners. For instance, in 2022, Croatia ordered 89 M2A2 ODS Bradley IFVs for $196 million, not including refurbishment expenses.
At the same time, the cost of restoration is a highly sensitive issue, which led Greece to abandon 200 Bradley IFVs, agreeing only to cover logistics expenses. Athens estimated the cost of restoration at €8 million per IFV.
If the U.S. approval follows a similar model, $150 million could allow for the restoration of about 15 to 16 Bradley IFVs.
It should also be noted that the permit specifically focuses on "improving maintenance, repair, and overhaul capabilities." Therefore, it is more likely focused on the repair and restoration of Bradley IFVs already in service with the Armed Forces of Ukraine rather than those procured alongside.
An intergovernmental agreement to seal the deal between the U.S. and Ukraine is expected to be signed soon. However, contracts with the manufacturers will be concluded by the U.S. Department of Defense, which will publish relevant announcements, allowing for a better understanding of the essence of this purchase in the future.
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