Rockets, missiles and fighting vehicles in new US $500m aid package for Ukraine

The US has announced a new $500m aid package which includes equipment and support for Ukraine's counter-offensive operations.

The aid comprises "key capabilities" to bolster Ukraine's air defences, additional armoured vehicles, anti-armour systems and critical munitions, the US Department of Defense said.

The package includes additional munitions for Patriot air defence systems, Stinger anti-aircraft systems and additional Himars ammunition.

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There are also demolition munitions and obstacle-clearing capabilities, mine-clearing equipment, 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds, 30 Bradley infantry fighting vehicles (IFV) and 25 Stryker armoured personnel carriers.

The US is sending Javelin, AT-4 anti-armour systems, anti-armour rockets, high-speed anti-radiation missiles, small arms, and more than 22 million rounds of small arms ammunition and grenades.

Ukraine will also receive thermal imagery systems and night vision devices, testing and diagnostic equipment to support vehicle maintenance and repair, spare parts and other field equipment.

The package is the Biden administration's 41st drawdown of equipment for Ukraine since August 2021.

The US Department of Defense said: "The United States will continue to work with its allies and partners to provide Ukraine with capabilities to meet its immediate battlefield needs and longer-term security assistance requirements."