Boost to Ukraine’s Defense: U.S. Provides $175 Million Package Including Armor-Piercing Rounds

The Biden administration is sending Ukraine armor-piercing munitions as part of a $175 million weapons package announced by the Pentagon on Wednesday.

Known for their high density, depleted uranium rounds are effective armor-piercing munitions, capable of penetrating armored tanks and causing significant damage upon impact. Depleted uranium is a byproduct of the uranium enrichment process used in the production of nuclear weapons.

While concerns have been raised about the health effects of these munitions, the Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs Administration have determined that the risks are negligible. However, there may be long-term environmental effects if the uranium contaminates the soil and water.

This decision to provide Ukraine with munitions follows an earlier announcement that the U.S. would supply controversial cluster munitions. The Biden administration cited Ukraine’s high usage rate of ammunition as a reason for the additional supply.

In a similar move, the U.K. also supplied Ukraine with depleted uranium rounds for use with Challenger tanks. The U.S. commitment of depleted uranium rounds is intended for use with the 31 Abrams Tanks previously promised to Ukraine.

Additionally, the $175 million package includes more munitions for long-range rocket systems, artillery rounds, and communications systems.

This marks the 46th drawdown from Defense Department stockpiles for Ukraine since August 2021. Approximately $5.7 billion in previously authorized funds for drawdown packages remains available, according to the Defense Department.