WASHINGTON, — May 22, 2026 : The U.S. Department of State has approved a possible $108.1 million Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Ukraine for the sustainment and support of HAWK air defense missile systems, according to a notification issued by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
The package is intended to maintain and enhance Ukraine’s existing FrankenSAM HAWK air defense configurations, which combine Western missile technologies with Soviet-era launchers and infrastructure already operated by Ukrainian forces.
According to the DSCA notification transmitted to Congress on May 21, 2026, Ukraine requested a comprehensive support package that includes erectable mast trailers, major system modifications, maintenance support, spare parts, consumables, accessories, repair and return services, and U.S. government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support.
The notification, designated as No. 26-51, is the first official DSCA announcement to formally use the term “FrankenSAM” in relation to HAWK system support. The FrankenSAM initiative was developed to accelerate deployment of air defense capabilities by integrating Western missiles, including the MIM-23 HAWK, with Ukraine’s Soviet-era air defense systems.
The U.S. State Department stated that the proposed sale supports American foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the security of a partner country that contributes to political and economic stability in Europe. Officials added that the assistance would improve Ukraine’s ability to counter current and future aerial threats through a more capable integrated air defense network.
The department further noted that Ukraine is expected to absorb the equipment and services without difficulty and emphasized that the proposed sale would not alter the basic military balance in the region or negatively affect U.S. defense readiness.
The principal contractor for the program will be Sierra Nevada Corporation.
The MIM-23 HAWK is a medium-range surface-to-air missile system originally developed by the United States during the 1960s. The system has an engagement range of approximately 45 to 50 kilometers and can intercept targets at altitudes of up to 20 kilometers. The missile travels at speeds of around Mach 2.4 and uses semi-active radar homing guidance.
Despite its Cold War-era origins, upgraded HAWK systems remain operational in nearly 20 countries and continue to provide defense against aircraft, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial systems. Within Ukraine’s layered air defense structure, the HAWK system operates as an intermediate-range platform between short-range systems such as Stinger and Avenger systems and long-range strategic systems including Patriot batteries.
Ukraine has integrated HAWK equipment supplied by the United States, Spain, and the Netherlands into hybrid FrankenSAM configurations for operations against Russian drones, cruise missiles, and aircraft. Ukrainian units, including the 208th Kherson Anti-Aircraft Missile Brigade, have previously been documented operating HAWK launchers in southern operational areas.
The newly approved package represents the third HAWK-related Foreign Military Sale provided to Ukraine over the past two years. Previous assistance efforts included refurbishment of fire units, missile repair components, spare parts, and additional logistics and sustainment support aimed at maintaining operational readiness of Ukraine’s air defense assets.
The equipment and services will be delivered through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program to sustain Ukraine’s existing HAWK air defense systems and support continued operational deployment.
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