Defence chief: US invested $70 billion to strengthen military-industrial complex amid Ukraine war

The United States has allocated $70 billion to bolster its military-industrial complex (MIC), US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin announced.

Speaking at a press conference, Austin explained that the investment aims to strengthen domestic defence production, supplying weapons not only to the US military but also replenishing stockpiles depleted by military aid to Ukraine, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

At a meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, Austin unveiled a new $500 million military aid package for Ukraine. "This package includes additional missiles for air defence systems, munitions, including air-to-ground weapons, and equipment to support Ukrainian F-16s," Austin stated. He reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to helping Ukraine defend its freedom and security, emphasizing that ongoing international support is critical.

The new aid package will supply Ukraine with AIM-7, RIM-7, and AIM-9M missiles to bolster its air defences, as confirmed by the Pentagon. This contribution adds to the $174 billion in total US aid provided to Ukraine since the start of the conflict, which includes 71 military aid packages.

The Wall Street Journal reported in December that Ukraine anticipates receiving over $120 billion in military aid from Western allies in 2025.

The latest Ramstein-format meeting, chaired by Austin, commenced on January 9 after a four-month pause. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also attended, with air defence system enhancement being a key agenda item. Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of sustaining Ukraine's defence capabilities as the conflict continues.

Looking ahead, the Pentagon announced plans to create roadmaps for military support through 2027, ensuring a steady flow of aid to Kyiv in the years to come.

By Tamilla Hasanova