AP reports that the next $1.1 billion package of US Military aid to the Ukraine will include 18 more HIMARS launchers. 18!
Unfortunately, this is a contract for new ones (rather than a drawdown from existing stocks) so there will be a year or two delay.
“The package includes funding for 18 of the High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or HIMARS, and ammunition for them, and 12 Titan systems, which are used to counter drones. Officials have said the HIMARS and other similar systems were key to Ukraine’s battle successes in recent weeks. And the Russians have been using Iranian-made drones to target Ukrainian forces, underscoring the need for more systems to counter that threat.
Also in the package is funding for about 300 vehicles, dozens of trucks and trailers to transport heavy equipment, a variety of radars, communications and surveillance equipment, and other gear for soldiers. It also will include funding for equipment to detect explosives and for maintenance and training.”
This package is supposed to be announced today, and another next week, that will likely include more drawdown.
18 is amazing.
But US should send from existing inventory and backfill with new order.
Titan is an autonomous, AI/ML-enabled counter-UAS solution that forces Group 1 & 2 drones to safely land without disrupting nearby communications or electronics. In less than 5 minutes, Titan equips the non-specialist operator with hemispherical situational awareness and force protection to detect and neutralize UAS threats. Engineered for fixed, mobile, and dismounted operation.
Here's a link for system specs:
Here's a pic of the system:
I guessing this has a self destruct button.