The State Department has approved a potential foreign military sale to the Government of Ukraine for the support of the HAWK Phase III missile system, along with related elements of logistics and program support, at an estimated cost of $138 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this potential sale on April 9, 2024.
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Hawk MIM-23 ground-to-air defense missile system. (Picture source: US DoD)
The Government of Ukraine has requested to purchase sustainment-related articles and services for the HAWK Phase III missile system, including engineering and integration for communications and interoperability; refurbishment and system overhaul of HAWK air defense fire units; missile recertification components; tool kits; test equipment; support equipment; technical documentation; spare parts; training; U.S. Government and contractor technical and field office support; and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total cost is $138 million.
The Secretary of State has determined and provided detailed justification that an emergency exists that requires the immediate sale to the Government of Ukraine of the above defense articles and services.
The HAWK system, or MIM-23, is a surface-to-air missile that intercepts targets at low to medium altitudes. It is widely used by several countries around the world, including France, Greece, Iran, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, South Korea, Sweden, Taiwan, Turkey, Ukraine, and the United Arab Emirates.
The HAWK system is powered by a dual-thrust solid fuel booster rocket motor, providing adequate acceleration and range to intercept airborne targets. It is equipped with explosive warheads, with payload weights varying depending on the models, providing effective destruction capability against aerial threats.
To guide the missile to its target, the HAWK system uses a semi-active radar-homing guidance system with proportional navigation. This combination allows for a precise trajectory toward the target, thereby improving the chances of a successful interception.
In terms of performance, the HAWK missile can reach a maximum speed of Mach 2.7, enabling it to quickly respond to approaching aerial threats. Its compact dimensions, with a length of 5.08 meters, a diameter of 0.37 meters, and a wing span of 1.19 meters, make it a relatively mobile weapons system adaptable to various operational environments.
Ukraine has an urgent need to enhance its defense capabilities against Russian missile strikes and the aerial capabilities of Russian forces. Maintenance and support of the HAWK missile system will enhance Ukraine's ability to defend itself and protect its infrastructure.
As of 2023, international support for Ukraine has included the delivery of several HAWK air defense systems. Specifically, Spain announced the shipment of six HAWK air defense systems to Ukraine. These efforts are part of a broader commitment to support Ukraine amidst ongoing conflicts.
Additionally, the U.S. has included HAWK system missiles in its security assistance packages to Ukraine, although it has not been specified how many systems or missiles in total have been sent.
The United States has announced that there will be no adverse impact on the defense readiness of its armed forces due to this proposed sale.
The description and dollar value are based on the highest estimated quantity and dollar value based on initial requirements. The actual dollar value will be lower depending on final requirements. While the HAWK system may be aging, Ukraine is seeking any air defense system that could help counter Russian air dominance.
