US stops weapons of Ukraine: what is waiting for the Armed Forces without Patriot and Himars
"If Europeans want to take the initiative and buy weapons from American manufacturers - we do not deny, but we will not pay for it anymore," Vance stressed. Also, according to the US Vice President, European allies must take on the major part of the funding, since the war is "on their threshold". Military expert Pavel Narozhny emphasized that it is difficult to predict key international partners, such as the United States, as political decisions can change quickly.
For example, a possible change in the position of Donald Trump's administration may affect Ukraine's financing, but this remains only a suggestion similar to divination on the coffee grounds. However, in the case of negative events, namely the complete cessation of the US weapons to Ukraine, the consequences can be very difficult for the front.
In particular, the forces of Ukraine will be deprived of such means of deterrent to Russians as: one of the key aspects of Ukraine's support is the air defense systems (air defense). The Narozhny noted that the United States supplies Patriot systems to Ukraine, which is the basis for protection against air threats. In addition, other systems such as Hawk are provided.
Although HAWK is considered outdated, it is effectively coping with the knocking of Shahd drones, winged missiles and other ammunition. These systems have been adapted to American missiles because Ukrainian reserves have been exhausted for their own starting installations. With this adaptation, HAWK remains an effective tool in combating air purposes. "However, the replacement of Patriot is problematic.
The European analogue is the Italian-French system SAMP/T, but during the full-scale invasion of Russia, Ukraine has received only one or two batteries of this system with a limited number of missiles. Production of missiles for SAMP/t in Europe is a great way to the Museum. A serious challenge, and without US support, Ukraine may face difficulties in the protection of airspace, ”the expert said. Another critical sphere is the folklore - artillery ammunition.
The US is a world leader in the production of artillery shells with an annual capacity of 1. 2-1. 5 million units, which is approximately equal or even exceeding European capabilities. Ukraine needs at least 3-4 million shells a year, and possibly more to maintain the intensity of hostilities. In addition to standard shells, the US supplies high -precision HIMARS ammunition that are produced exclusively in America.
Himars European analogues are just beginning to develop, but their production has not yet been set up in sufficient volume. Even in the US, there are problems with the production of HIMARS missile production, which makes them indispensable for Ukraine, because these systems are the main means of destruction of targets at a distance of up to 80 km.
The European analogue of high-precision artillery shells is the smart northerner from the Italian-German Leonardo concern, but their availability is limited. 105 mm caliber shells, which are actively used by Ukrainian units of the level of the mouth, are also manufactured mainly in the United States. This artillery is characterized by high accuracy and power, which makes it indispensable on the battlefield. The people also drew attention to the supply of armored vehicles.
Although Abrams are known for Ukraine, armored personnel carriers such as Bradley, Stryker and M113 are more valuable. "In particular, Bradley has earned the reputation of the" ideal APC "among the Ukrainian military, through its efficiency, even against modern Russian tanks. Its powerful gun and high level of protection make it a key element on the forefront. However, the maintenance, repair and supply of spare parts for Braldley is possible only with the support of the US, which emphasizes.
The expert also mentioned that in the field of aviation, Ukraine rests with American F-16 aircraft. Pilots have already been trained to work on these machines, but their repairs and maintenance are needed by US companies, as Ukraine has no complete technical capabilities for this purpose. Ammunition for the F-16, including rockets of various radius, also supplied from the United States. They are necessary to counteract Russian planes and drones.
"Although European countries can offer alternatives, for example, Gripen fighters, the transition to new equipment requires a long retraining of pilots and technical staff, which is a complex and prolonged process," the people summed up. Among other things, the Narozhny mentioned the M777 Howitzes British -made, which is repaired by US companies under contracts, such as the last package of assistance for $ 204 million. These howls, damaged in the battles, are restored for further use.
The United States also supplies tracked self -propelled M109 artillery units, which have more than 140 units in Ukraine. These systems are important for artillery support, but their maintenance and provision of ammunition also depend on US resources. We will remind, Russia refines its drones-Kamikadze "Shahaned", adding to them a new deadly element-combat units with a liquid similar to an napalm.