
In a pivotal move to enhance Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, the United States has committed to providing 140 AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI).

This $192 million contract, awarded to Raytheon, is set to arm Ukraine with formidable air-to-air combat potential and surface-to-air defense enhancements.

With the Pentagon’s announcement on August 31, the stage is set for a notable boost in Ukraine’s aerial warfare and air defense capabilities.

This contract signifies a tangible step in bolstering Ukraine’s military resources in the face of ongoing hostilities, with production slated to be finalized by November 29, 2024.

The integration of these missiles is a strategic component of a broader defense package, particularly relevant as Ukraine prepares to receive F-16 fighter jets from Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway.

The F-16, a versatile and widely used combat platform, will significantly benefit from the AMRAAM’s advanced features, enabling Ukrainian pilots to effectively counter adversary aircraft without entering hostile air defense zones.

Ukrainian Air Force spokesman Yuriy Inhat underlined this point, stating, “AMRAAM are universal aviation missiles and can be used for both fighters and air defense systems,” and noting their effectiveness against Russian aircraft.

AMRAAMs are known for their versatility as they are not limited to air-to-air roles. Ukraine, already equipped with NASAMS launchers, utilizes AMRAAMs as surface-to-air interceptors, demonstrating the missile’s adaptability across different combat scenarios.

This duality ensures that the supplied missiles not only prepare Ukraine for future aerial engagements but also strengthen their existing ground-based air defenses.

The provision of AMRAAMs represents a pivotal shift in US policy towards arming Ukraine. Until recently, the US had refrained from supplying F-16s and compatible munitions.

However, recent developments have seen the Biden administration endorse a European plan to transfer F-16s to Ukraine and assist in pilot training.

The spokesperson for the Pentagon, Brig. Gen. Patrick S. Ryder chose not to comment on the specific employment plans for the AMRAAMs in Ukraine.

It is interesting to note that the AMRAAM comes in various versions, with the US Air Force employing the AIM-120B, the AIM-120C optimized for F-22 and F-35 jets, and the AIM-120D, notable for GPS guidance, anti-jam features, and enhanced range and lethality.

The Ukrainian spokesman’s reference to a range of 160-180 km suggests the provision of the D variant, which aligns with the strategic requirement for robust defense capabilities mentioned by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

“We need fighter jets merely to defend ourselves,” Zelenskyy told RTP. “To defend our land, our sea, our sky.”