Ukraine is set to receive new S-300 Clone and GAM-67 air defense missiles as part of a U.S.-approved air defense package worth up to $2.68 billion. These are new developments, some of which will be compatible with Soviet-era systems already in service with the Ukrainian Armed Forces, according to Defense Express.
The package will also include Range-Extended Air Defense Laser Guided Rocket systems, Improvised Transporter Erector Launcher 1.5 mobile units, RPS 202 radars for detecting unmanned aerial vehicles, and other equipment.
The procurement is planned to be financed through contributions from European partners and unused funds from the U.S. Foreign Military Financing program for Ukraine.
What is known about the new missiles
According to Defense Express, the S-300 Clone, despite its name, is not a copy of the Soviet 5B55 missile. It is a new rocket for S-300 systems with enhanced characteristics and a more modern target guidance principle.
The GAM-67 is also a new development. It is being created for medium-range air defense systems, including existing Soviet-era systems and prospective air defense complexes.
Defense Express notes that the development of both missiles has been ongoing for some time, with funding for these projects intensifying recently. A potential advantage of such ammunition is its versatility and ability to be used with various air defense systems.
What this means in practice
For the Ukrainian Armed Forces, this is a way to extend the service life of Soviet air defense systems without dependence on Russian missile supplies, which are no longer available anyway. In a broader perspective, such solutions could also interest other countries still operating Soviet or Russian air defense equipment.
The question that remains open: when will the first batches of S-300 Clone and GAM-67 actually reach Ukrainian air defense brigades, and will production rates be sufficient to cover the ammunition deficit for existing systems.
