US unveils nearly $1 billion arms package to boost Ukraine’s defence

The United States on Saturday announced a $988 million aid package to provide Ukraine with new weapons and equipment to defend itself against Russia’s ongoing offensive. The package significantly reduces the $2.21 billion remaining in the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), as is the Biden administration’s replacement. Instead of taking weapons from the US military stockpile, to buying weapons directly from industry. According to the Pentagon, the funds will be earmarked for procurement of ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) developed by Lockheed Martin, as well as drones and spare parts for maintenance of artillery equipment. The announcement came on the sidelines of the Reagan National Defense Forum in California, which brought together defense industry leaders. Policy makers. Unlike the Presidential Drawdown Authority, which is often used by President Joe Biden to transfer surplus US funds. Military Resources During Contingencies Without the need for congressional approval, USAI funds are allocated to acquire new weapons directly from manufacturers. The administration still has about $6 billion in congressionally authorized drawdown funds, including those appropriated for 2024 and additional funds identified after the Pentagon revised previous estimates. The cost of the weapons had already been sent to Ukraine. Since the Russian invasion began in February. By 2022, the United States has provided more than $62 billion in security assistance to Ukraine.