Aegis missile defence system in Poland.Photo: Rmf24.
Ukraine and the United States have intensified negotiations on providing the Ukrainian air defence forces with air defence systems capable of neutralising intercontinental ballistic missiles. This is reported by Time Ukraine Israel, citing information from the Unian and sources in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
According to the source, Ukraine does not have the means to effectively shoot down intercontinental missiles. However, the United States has the necessary technology, and the Ukrainian side is asking its partners to supply such systems. One option would be to upgrade Ukraine’s existing Patriot air defence systems or to acquire the latest American systems, such as Aegis.
Interestingly, there was information that Russia had conducted a demonstration launch of an experimental missile to intimidate Ukraine. However, according to sources, Russia has only a few such missiles, and their real combat effectiveness is questionable.
What is the Aegis system?
Aegis is a US multifunctional air and missile defence system that was introduced more than 20 years ago. Its main purpose is to protect against various threats, including ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as air strikes. The system includes radar equipment, interceptor missiles and a powerful command and control system.
The Aegis system can be installed on both warships and ground-based facilities. One of its key features is the ability to intercept intermediate-range ballistic missiles using the SM-3 missile, which can reach targets in space.
This system is actively used by US allies such as Japan, Australia, Spain and South Korea. In addition, the ground-based version of Aegis installed in Poland and Romania is part of NATO’s strategic missile defence programme, which aims to protect Europe from potential ballistic threats.
Prospects for Ukraine
The transition to equipping Ukrainian forces with Aegis will be a significant step in strengthening the country’s air defence, allowing it to protect its most important facilities and territories from missile attacks. Given the high level of threat posed by Russia, Ukraine’s ability to acquire such advanced technology will be an important element in the fight for national security and sovereignty.
The time for big changes has come – and in these negotiations, Ukraine has a chance to obtain technologies that can change the balance of power in the region and provide reliable protection against global threats.
