Canada's NASAMS Aid to Ukraine Still Awaited Amidst its Alleged Destruction in Recent Strikes

The Canadian government's pledged assistance to Ukraine through the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) has yet to materialize, leaving the Eastern European nation vulnerable amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The promised aid, announced in January 2023 as a response to the Russian invasion, included a $406 million NASAMS acquisition, forming part of a broader $500 million military aid package unveiled in November 2022.

Despite the commitment made over a year ago, Canada has not communicated a delivery date for the NASAMS system. Recent reports from the Ottawa Citizen highlight the conspicuous absence of the promised air defense system, stirring concerns about the transparency and efficiency of Canada's defense acquisition processes.

NASAMS, a medium to long-range air defense system designed primarily by Norway, employs AIM-120C missiles capable of reaching targets up to 180 kilometers away. With a focus on countering aerial threats, the system was deemed crucial for Ukraine's defense, particularly following recent attacks on Kyiv that underscored the nation's need for such sophisticated defense mechanisms.

In April 2023, then-Canadian Defense Minister Anita Anand declared the imminent arrival of the NASAMS system in Ukraine. However, as of January 2024, the promised delivery has not occurred. Details on delivery schedules remain vague, with ongoing negotiations between Canada and the United States adding to the confusion.

Adding to the urgency of the situation, recent reports from Ukrainian sources reveal that at least two NASAMS anti-aircraft missile platoons/divisions were incapacitated during a massive strike with Kh-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles. The AN/MPQ-64F1 Sentinel multifunctional radars, integral components of the NASAMS, were reportedly hit during combat.

Ukraine was operating two NASAMS air defense systems, with the U.S. and Canada ordering six and one, respectively, as part of their military aid packages. International allies, including Norway and Lithuania, have also joined forces, with Norway pledging two NASAMS fire platoons and Lithuania procuring two NASAMS launchers for Ukraine in June.

NASAMS, a collaborative effort between Raytheon Technologies and the Norwegian Kongsberg group, stands as a medium-range anti-aircraft missile system. Its primary tactical unit, the battery, typically comprises three firing units, each housing 2 to 3 missile launchers, an AN/MPQ-64F1 Sentinel radar station, a control vehicle, and a vehicle equipped with an MSP500 electro-optical system. Each mobile launcher carries six containers with anti-aircraft missiles.

The NASAMS II configuration, utilizing AIM-120С AMRAAM missiles, boasts a range of up to 25 km and reaches altitudes of 14-15 km. In its latest iteration, the NASAMS III system extends its capability to target distances of up to 40 km.