NASAMS, Aspide Air Defense Systems Arrive

Ukrainian Defense Minister Olsksii Reznikov has announced the arrival of new Western air defense systems, reports Ukrinform.

On Monday, Reznikov said a National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) and Aspide surface-to-air missile systems were now in Ukraine to help protect its airspace.

The U.S. has pledged to supply eight NASAMS to Ukraine, with the first two to be rapidly delivered and the balance purchased from manufacturers Kongsberg and Raytheon, reported Air & Space Forces magazine. The latter may not be delivered for 18 months, however.

Last week, a new batch of aid from Spain was announced, including an Aspide air defense battery, four Hawk anti-aircraft systems, anti-tank missile systems, unspecified artillery and related munitions.

The U.S. has also pledged funding to refurbish stored Hawk surface-to-air missiles for transfer to Ukraine in the future.

Air defense has become a concern in Ukraine amid increasing Russian attacks with cruise missiles and Iranian-made loitering munitions.