The US State Department has approved the sale of a National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) to Ukraine.
The potential $285 million sale includes one AN/MPQ-64F1 Sentinel Radar, a Fire Distribution Center, and canister launchers.
Ukraine requested the Raytheon system to bolster its defenses against Russian aerial attacks, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency stated.
“Acquiring and effectively deploying this capability will enhance Ukraine’s ability to defend its people and protect critical national infrastructure,” the Pentagon agency added.
US, Norway NASAMS Deliveries to Ukraine
The US delivered two NASAMS to Ukraine last year. Washington has also awarded Raytheon a $1.2 billion contract to produce six NASAMS for Ukraine.
In March, Norway announced it would send two NASAMS to Ukraine in cooperation with the US, as the system is a joint production between the two countries, necessitating Washington’s approval.
Features
Co-developed by Raytheon and Norwegian defense firm Kongsberg, the short-to-medium range air defense system features a fire distribution center, a Raytheon AN/MPQ-64F1 Sentinel active 3D radar, a passive electro-optical and infrared sensor, and multiple missile canister launchers with AMRAAM missiles.
The ground-based system features net-centric architecture and is capable of simultaneous interceptions of aerial targets such as aircraft, missiles, and drones at a range of 30 to 50 kilometers (19 to 31 miles).
