Taiwan boosts Ukraine’s air defense with HAWK missile systems

Forbes reported the information.

Former Pentagon official Tony Hu claims Taiwan donated its surplus HAWK surface-to-air missile batteries to Ukraine. Speaking to YouTube channel RJ War Room, Hu’s comments align with reports from 2023 suggesting a U.S.-brokered deal between Taiwan and Ukraine.

This donation adds to HAWK systems previously provided by the U.S. and Spain, giving Ukraine as many as 15 HAWK batteries, each with six launchers. These systems would bolster Ukraine’s existing air-defense network, which started with Soviet-era systems like the S-300s and has since expanded with Western equipment, including American Patriots.

The HAWK missile, though more than 60 years old, remains effective against slower drones and cruise missiles. It’s mobile, reliable, and compatible with the NASAMS system already in Ukraine’s arsenal.

“Taiwan isn’t a vocal supporter of Ukraine’s war effort, but it is a significant one,” the outlet notes.

Reports suggest that U.S. officials began negotiating with Taiwan in 2023 to buy back its retired HAWK systems, which Taiwan replaced with modern NASAMS and local defense systems. This influx of HAWKs helps Ukraine mitigate shortages of missiles for its aging Soviet air-defense systems like the S-300 and Buk.

As Ukraine’s air-defense needs to grow under constant Russian attacks, diversifying missile sources is crucial. With HAWKs now in play, Ukraine can access a broader supply chain from countries that once operated these systems. The HAWK may lack the range of Ukraine’s Patriot missiles, but it fills a vital gap in Ukraine’s layered defense network.

However, there’s a downside — the HAWK’s radar is vulnerable to jamming. Integrating these older systems with NASAMS’ advanced radar could improve their resilience against Russian interference.