The Arsenal of Ukraine: Heavy Weapons and Advanced Equipment from Around the Globe

Introduction

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has seen the nation receive a significant influx of advanced military weapons and equipment from various nations around the world. This article provides an overview of the anti-tank, anti-aircraft, and artillery weapons being supplied to Ukraine, as well as other heavy weapons.

Anti-Tank Weapons

Anti-tank weapons are crucial in modern warfare as they are designed to neutralize armored threats such as tanks and other armored vehicles. Ukraine has been supplied with various advanced anti-tank missiles, including the Javelin and NLAW (Next-Generation Light Anti-Armor Weapon) missile systems. These missiles are equipped with advanced guidance systems and are capable of engaging targets at significant distances and angles, providing a strong defense against armored threats.

Anti-Aircraft Weapons

Anti-aircraft weapons play a vital role in defending against aerial attacks. Some of the most common anti-aircraft weapons being supplied to Ukraine include the Stinger and Starstreak missile systems. The Stinger is a portable, man-portable surface-to-air missile system capable of engaging aircraft and helicopters, while the Starstreak is a short-range, fire-and-forget missile system designed to intercept fast-flying targets.

Artillery

Artillery systems provide crucial firepower support for ground forces and are essential for neutralizing enemy strongholds and positions. Ukraine has received a variety of artillery systems, including howitzers, mortars, and self-propelled howitzers. Some of the notable systems include the M142 HIMARS, M270 MLRS/MARS, British CVRT armored fighting vehicles, and the French Caesar 155mm self-propelled howitzer. These systems enable Ukraine to conduct heavy artillery barrages and provide effective fire support to ground troops.

Heavy Weapons Surplus

Beyond the advanced weapons mentioned above, Ukraine has also received a large stockpile of heavy weapons and vehicles from various nations. This surplus includes:

M142 HIMARS and M270 MLRS/MARS multiple-launch rocket systems British CVRT armored fighting vehicles US M113 armored personnel carriers from multiple nations, including the US, Denmark, and Portugal French VAB and Canadian ACSV armored personnel carriers Australian Bushmaster and British Mastiff armored personnel carriers US M777 155mm towed artillery, British L119 105mm towed artillery, and Portuguese M114 155mm towed artillery German and Dutch PzH 2000 155mm self-propelled howitzers Slovenian ShKH Zuzana 155mm self-propelled howitzers British M109 155mm self-propelled howitzers and German Gepard anti-aircraft armored fighting vehicles German IRIS-T SLM surface-to-air missile systems and US NASAMS surface-to-air missile batteries US Harpoon anti-ship missiles and Swedish Robot 17 Hellfire missiles as shore-launched anti-ship missile systems Several Bayraktar TB-2 unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) crowd-funded by Lithuanians and Ukrainians

These heavy weapons and vehicles have significantly bolstered Ukraine's military capabilities, providing a robust defense against the advancing Russian forces.

Conclusion

The ongoing supply of advanced military equipment to Ukraine reflects a global commitment to support the nation in its fight for sovereignty and territorial integrity. As the conflict continues, it is crucial for nations to remain vigilant and continue providing the necessary support to ensure the safety and security of the Ukrainian people.