US announces $2 bn aid package for Ukraine, including drones, ammunition, electronic warfare

On 24 February, the Pentagon announced a new $2 billion security assistance package for Ukraine. The package includes more ammunition and a variety of small drones. The package includes HIMARS and artillery ammunition, electronic warfare equipment, surveillance drones CyberLux K8, Altius-600, Jump 20, loitering missiles Switchblade 600, and other equipment. According to the Pentagon's statement, capabilities in this security assistance package include the following:

• Additional ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS);
• Additional 155mm artillery rounds;
• Munitions for laser-guided rocket systems;
• CyberLux K8 UAS;
• Switchblade 600 UAS;
• Altius-600 UAS;
• Jump 20 UAS;
• Counter-UAS and electronic warfare detection equipment;
• Mine clearing equipment;
• Secure communications support equipment;
• Funding for training, maintenance, and sustainment.

The announcement comes on the first anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, days after US President Joe Biden's surprise visit to Kyiv, where he announced the upcoming aid package.

Biden in Kyiv: Putin thought he could outlast us but he was dead wrong (updated)

"Difficult times may lie ahead, but let us remain clear-eyed about what is at stake in Ukraine. And let us remain united in purpose and in action—and steadfast in our commitment to ensure that a world of rules and rights is not replaced by one of tyranny and turmoil," US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement.