Pentagon approves deployment of US defense contractors to Ukraine
Ukrainian soldier Dzhin from the Ukrainian drone unit of the 24th brigade battalion is shooting with a painted AK-47 during the military training in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine on October 26, 2024. (AA Photo)
The Pentagon has started accepting bids from U.S.-based defense contractors to send personnel to Ukraine, marking the first time since Russia‘s invasion that American private military teams are authorized to operate within the country.
The contractors will assist in the maintenance and repair of advanced U.S.-provided weapon systems, including F-16 fighter jets and Patriot air defense systems.
Decision follows Ukraine’s request for technical support
Officials speaking on condition of anonymity confirmed the policy shift, noting that restrictions previously preventing American contractors from entering Ukraine have been relaxed. The decision was prompted by Ukraine‘s need for specialized expertise to maintain sophisticated equipment provided by the U.S. and its allies.
The Pentagon emphasized that contractor teams will operate far from the front lines and will not be engaged in combat.
Focus on repairing high-value equipment
The repair and maintenance tasks are expected to focus on advanced systems like the F-16 and Patriot missiles, which require specific technical skills. In recent months, U.S.-provided equipment has faced significant wear and damage on the battlefield, with repairs typically conducted in neighboring countries like Poland and Romania.
This new policy aims to expedite the process by allowing repairs directly in Ukraine, reducing downtime for critical systems.
Contractors to bear responsibility for security
According to officials, the safety of American contractor personnel will be managed by the companies themselves, with risk mitigation plans required as part of the contract bids. The Pentagon’s decision was made after a thorough risk assessment in coordination with various U.S. government agencies.
Limited presence, unlike Iraq or Afghanistan
Officials clarified that the policy will not lead to a substantial presence of American contractors in Ukraine, unlike deployments seen in Iraq or Afghanistan. The expectation is that only a few dozen to a couple hundred contractors will be working in the country at any given time.
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