Ukraine now has MIM-23 HAWK anti-aircraft missiles to down aircraft, cruise missiles and other airborne targets

Surface-to-air missiles are a critical component of modern warfare. They function as an integral part of the air defense system by defending against airborne threats, such as aircraft, cruise missiles and other aerial targets. The acquisition of the MIM-23 HAWK surface-to-air missile system by Ukraine from Spain is an important milestone for the country's defense capabilities.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov announced that the first MIM-23 HAWK surface-to-air missiles arrived in Ukraine. These missiles are part of the military support from Spain.

Hosted#DefMin Margarita Robles in Odesa. We honored the memory of heroes who died in battles for and visited our soldiers in a hospital. stands with : humanitarian&security assistance will continue.
More of our soldiers will train in
Our 1st Hawks are provided by pic.twitter.com/Nm02iW9oFb

— Oleksii Reznikov (@oleksiireznikov) December 2, 2022

The number of missiles is not specified. However, it is known that earlier Spain promised Ukraine six MIM-23 HAWK systems. They will protect strategic objects from Russian missile attacks, as well as "kamikaze" drones, aircraft and helicopters.

The Raytheon MIM-23 HAWK ("Homing all the way killer") is an American medium-range surface-to-air missile. It entered service with the US Army in 1959. The last US user was the US Marine Corps, who used theirs until 2002.

The missile was also produced outside the US in Western Europe and Japan. It is one of the most common missile systems of this type in the world. Approximately 40,000 of the missiles were produced.

The MIM-23 HAWK is a highly effective missile system that is suitable for both offensive and defensive operations, providing increased protection against aerial threats. This acquisition will help Ukraine improve its air defense capabilities and bolster its overall security.