U.S. Conducted Training for Ukrainian Patriot and HAWK Air Defense Operators in First Quarter of 2026

The United States conducted training for Ukrainian operators of the Patriot and HAWK surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems during the first quarter of 2026.

According to the Operation Atlantic Resolve Report submitted to the U.S. Congress, the training was carried out during the reporting period. Military analyst Jeff21461 highlighted the report’s findings on X.

Training for Ukrainian Patriot operators focused on intermediate- and depot-level maintenance of the air defense systems.

Meanwhile, some Patriot systems were temporarily removed from Ukraine to undergo maintenance.

Training on the HAWK air defense system covered maintenance, system operation, missile handling, and combat employment.

The report does not specify the number of Ukrainian service members who have been trained.

At the same time, the document confirms the continuation of U.S. support in maintaining the operational readiness of the air defense systems transferred to Ukraine.

Sale of HAWK air defense system e quipment to Ukraine

In May of this year, the U.S. Department of State approved the possible sale of equipment for HAWK air defense systems to Ukraine.

The total value of the potential deal is estimated at $108.1 million. Ukraine has requested the purchase of trailers for mounting masts, as well as equipment and services for major modifications and technical maintenance.

In addition, the potential sale includes the supply of spare parts and consumable materials, as well as repair support and engineering, technical, and logistics services provided by the U.S. government and American contractors.

MIM-23 HAWK air defense systems began arriving in Ukraine in late 2022 as part of military assistance from several countries, including the United States.

The day before, the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine announced that the state had taken a step toward purchasing approximately 100 interceptor missiles for Patriot air defense systems using funds from a European Union loan.