Europe will “struggle” to fill capability gaps left by US-Ukraine aid pause
Training and spares support on European donated F-16s have been approved by the US to Ukraine as recently as December 2024. (Photo: Dutch Ministry of Defence)
Europe’s capacity to fill the capability gaps created by the US pause on military aid to Ukraine is uncertain, according to analysts, but European defence industry leaders have stressed their readiness to meet demand.
Europe will “struggle” to cover US-equipment capabilities in the short term, following the US’s suspension of military aid to Ukraine, defence analysts have said.
US-made hardware such as Patriot air defence missiles, National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMs), M142 HIMARS rocket launchers, M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicles have all been donated to Ukraine in various military aid packages.
Spares and maintenance support for these platforms, as well as training for older Block F-16 aircraft have also been committed, in support of the European-donated aircraft.
Dr Jacob Parakilas, research leader for defence, security and justice at research organisation RAND emphasised the
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Boeing E-7A still in South Korean AEW&C competition, despite dropout reports]()
Boeing E-7A still in South Korean AEW&C competition, despite dropout reports
The E-7A is one of three aircraft submitted for the South Korean AEW&C II competition, which seeks to acquire four more aircraft of the type for its air force by 2028.
-
![France pushes for 80% workshare as FCAS programme nears critical development stage]()
France pushes for 80% workshare as FCAS programme nears critical development stage
Tensions on the programme have long simmered, with Airbus and Dassault recently clashing over workshare in June ahead of the Paris Air Show. The sixth-generation fighter programme is due to replace Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon jets beginning in 2040.
-
![US Air Force conducts climate testing with the T-7A Red Hawk]()
US Air Force conducts climate testing with the T-7A Red Hawk
The trainer aircraft recently completed the second round of extreme weather trials after enduring icy, windy and sunny conditions.
