The US Army and Raytheon Missiles and Defence have signed a $1.2 billion contract to deliver six NASAMS (National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System) batteries to Ukraine.

In August, Raytheon signed a contract to deliver NASAMS batteries to Ukraine as part of the third Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) package. The new contract signed is a continuation of this.

The contract is part of the fifth Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative package, the military said on 30 November. The contract also stated that it includes training and logistical support to Ukraine’s military and security forces.

According to the US Army, the first two NASAMS batteries capable of firing the AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles have been delivered and deployed. Pentagon officials said that most of the first NASAMS systems are ready and therefore can be purchased quickly. Developed by NASAMS, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and Raytheon companies.

“These are proven systems that will continue to make a difference on the battlefield” said William LaPlante, Undersecretary for procurement and maintenance at the US Department of Defence.

Doug Bush, the army’s Chief Procurement Officer, added: “The swift signing of this contract is another example of the military’s ability to accelerate delivery of critical capabilities to our allies through our industry partners.”