This initiative originated at a time when it was uncertain whether the U.S. Congress would approve a substantial USD 60 billion aid package proposed by the U.S. government. Despite the subsequent approval of this package, Minister Pistorius emphasized that the financing of these three systems will proceed as planned.
The demand for advanced artillery systems in Ukraine remains critically high. According to a statement by the U.S. government in April 2024, Ukraine has already received 39 HIMARS units, with the first deliveries made in the summer of 2022. Reports from the conflict zone indicate successful operational outcomes with these systems.
The HIMARS, produced by Lockheed Martin, is a multiple rocket launcher mounted on a protected 6×6 FMTV truck chassis by Oshkosh, providing long-range firepower from a highly mobile platform. Its radar-guided rockets vary in range, with some types capable of striking targets up to 300 kilometers away. This capability makes the HIMARS particularly effective against enemy weapon depots and command centers.
