Spain's covert arms aid: Boosting Ukraine's winter defence
The Ukrainian agency Unian reports that Spain provided Ukraine with six air defence systems at a critical point during the winter when Russia was planning attacks on the country's energy infrastructure, citing statements from Volodymyr Zelensky.
This transfer of air defence systems was highlighted in Zelensky's speech at the international conference "Support Ukraine", held in Kyiv. Pedro Sánchez, the Prime Minister of Spain, delivered these weapons in secret during a time when Ukraine was in dire need of them—the winter months.
Weapons from Spain secretly reached Ukraine
Volodymyr Zelensky recalled that his visit to Spain during challenging times prompted Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to support Ukraine. "Pedro (Pedro Sanchez, Prime Minister of Spain, – ed.) made a decision. It was a decision that I really needed," Zelensky said, expressing gratitude for the assistance of six air defence systems. While the President of Ukraine did not specify which systems were transferred, it is noteworthy that by 2024, Madrid had already sent six MIM-23 Hawk systems to Ukraine. It might, therefore, be inferred that the secret support involved the same types of weapons. Spain's support also includes artillery missiles, ammunition for the Patriots, and Leopard tanks.
It should also be noted that during the international meeting in Kyiv, Pedro Sánchez announced a new military aid package for Ukraine valued at £860 million. The Prime Minister assured Spain would continue supporting Ukraine, providing military and technical equipment as long as needed.
MIM-23 Hawk System
The MIM-23 Hawk, also known as the Homing All the Way Killer, is an American medium-range anti-aircraft missile system. Its design dates back to the 1960s when it was developed to defend against the aviation threats of the former Soviet Union.
Initially, the MIM-23 Hawk system could engage targets at a distance of up to 16 miles and an altitude of up to 9 miles. However, significant modifications have enhanced the missiles' effectiveness, extending the range to 25 miles.
Currently, the MIM-23 Hawk is employed in Ukraine to combat targets such as Su-25 and Su-24 aircraft and older cruise missiles such as the Kh-102. This system can also neutralise Shahed drones, broadening its range of applications.
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