Ukraine to fortify frontlines with new wave of U.S. Strykers
As part of the forthcoming military support package for Ukraine, announced by the United States in early November, Kyiv will receive additional Stryker wheeled armoured vehicles, Stinger missiles, and ammunition for NASAMS and HIMARS systems. This equipment addresses the Ukrainian army's primary needs.
The latest American military support package for Ukraine, valued at £348 million, includes missile rockets for NASAMS anti-aircraft systems, Stinger guided anti-aircraft missiles, ammunition for HIMARS systems, 105mm and 155mm calibre ammunition, TOW anti-tank guided missiles, FGM-148 Javelin missiles, anti-drone system ammunition, small arms ammunition, AT4 anti-tank grenade launchers, and an unspecified number of Stryker wheeled armoured vehicles.
Additional Strykers for Ukraine
To date, Ukraine has received over 400 Strykers from the United States. The exact number in the current package has not been specified, but some sources, including the American service Army Recognition, suggest that it might include a dozen or so additional vehicles. These highly mobile machines perform well on the battlefield and are effective in various missions. What further details are known about them?
Stryker armoured vehicles have been a mainstay of the American army's equipment since 2002. They are equipped with a Browning M2 machine gun with a .50 calibre and a Mk 19 grenade launcher with a 40mm calibre, making them capable of providing effective fire support on the battlefield. The 8x8 drive system ensures excellent mobility in challenging terrain, and they can reach speeds of over 90 km/h. In terms of protection, the vehicle's armour shields against 7.62mm calibre rounds from all sides and 14.5mm calibre rounds from the front, with the option of reinforcing the vehicle using additional modules.
The Stryker is a multifunctional vehicle designed to transport up to nine combat soldiers, with a total crew of 11 people. Due to its versatility, it is used in various military missions, from supporting infantry activities to patrol and convoy missions. In both offensive and defensive actions, the Stryker provides mobility and protection, making it a valuable asset in the arsenal of the American armed forces and during conflicts and peacekeeping missions involving NATO forces. Its presence on conflict fronts, especially in Eastern Europe, underscores its strategic value and flexibility in adapting to rapidly changing conditions on the battlefield.
