US State Department approves $185 mln sale of military equipment spare parts to Ukraine
The U.S. State Department has approved the possible sale of Class IX spare parts and related equipment to Ukraine for about $185 million, the press service of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency has said on February 6.
The relevant certification was provided to Congress by the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency.
As noted, the Ukrainian government has made an official request for the purchase of relevant spare parts to support vehicles and weapons systems supplied by the U.S. Army. The package also includes elements of logistics and program support.
"This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a partner country that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Europe," the agency said in a statement.
It is emphasized that Ukraine has an urgent need to strengthen local sustainment capabilities to maintain high operational rates for U.S.-provided vehicles and weapons systems. The spare parts will directly contribute to battlefield effectiveness with higher overall operational rates, improved logistics, and reduced financial burden as a result of a more resilient and rapid repair cycle.
As noted, the proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the military balance in the region and will not have adverse impact on the defense capabilities of the United States.
"The principal contractor(s) will be determined from approved vendors. At this time, the U.S. Government is not aware of any offset agreement proposed in connection with this potential sale. Any offset agreement will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor," the statement reads.
In addition, the implementation of this sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. government or contractor representatives to Ukraine.