The funds will be allocated for critical repairs and spare parts for Kyiv's Hawk missile systems, which are vital for Ukraine's air defense.

The announcement, made on Tuesday, emphasized the urgent need for maintenance support to keep the missile system operational. This comes on the heels of a previous announcement by the Pentagon, whereby a smaller, $300 million allocation for munitions support was unveiled. The Pentagon was able to convert contract savings to offset the costs of providing aid to Ukraine.

With a $60 billion Ukraine aid package currently stalled in Congress, both the State and Defense Departments have been actively searching for alternative avenues to provide support to Ukraine. The Hawk missile system, a medium-range surface-to-air defense system, plays a crucial role in Ukraine's security requirements.

In a memo outlining the sale, the State Department highlighted Ukraine's urgent need to enhance its capabilities to counter potential Russian missile strikes and aerial threat. The maintenance and sustenance of the Hawk Weapon System will significantly bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities, safeguarding both its people and critical national infrastructure.

During a Capitol Hill hearing on Tuesday, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin underscored the importance of supporting Ukraine, stating that without aid, the risk of Ukraine falling to Russian forces increases. Austin further emphasized that the conflict in Ukraine carries global implications for US national security.

The repair work on the Hawk missile systems will be carried out by contractors from Massachusetts-based RTX Corporation (formerly known as Raytheon) and PROJECTXYZ based in Huntsville, Alabama. The necessary parts for repairing the systems will be sourced from various channels, including US Army stock, third-country donations, commercial off-the-shelf components, and new production.

This emergency military sales approval reinforces the United States' commitment to assisting Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. The timely provision of repairs and spare parts for the Hawk missile systems is a significant step in enabling Ukraine to protect itself and preventing potential regional instability that could involve NATO members in the Baltic region.