The list of weapons Ukraine is seeking includes multiple missile systems, artillery and air defenses to counter a Russian invasion.
This is written in a letter distributed to defense ministers participating in a meeting of the Ukrainian Defense Contact Group organized by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin in Brussels.
Defense ministers from several countries are meeting to discuss weapons requests and how countries can continue to support Ukraine militarily as they fight against Russia’s continued invasion of their country.
In addition to the Multiple Launch Missile Systems (MLRS), the letter states that the Ukrainians also need “additional MLRS systems and ammunition of NATO standards”. Kiev needs more “artillery for trailer howitzers, self-propelled howitzers and non-standard wheeled howitzers, as well as large quantities of “additional 155 mm, 152 mm and 122 mm ammunition.
The third priority is “air defense” including missiles for the current S-300 and SA-11 medium-range air defense systems.
The list also says Ukraine needs a “transition to air defense systems of Western origin” and “additional Western and Soviet-era SHORAD systems.”
Ukraine has been asking for more air defense systems, but the need has become more urgent as Russia has increased its use of Iranian-made drones.
Other priorities listed include radars, coastal defenses, tanks and electronic warfare equipment.