The United States is expanding operational support for the VAMPIRE counter-drone systems used by the Ukrainian Navy amid the ongoing war against Russia.
The U.S. Navy issued a pre-solicitation notice to award, without competition, a contract to Sierra Nevada Company (SNC) to provide maintenance, repairs, and technical assistance for equipment deployed in Eastern Europe, reinforcing Washington’s commitment to keeping the systems fully combat-ready.
Originally developed by L3Harris Technologies, the VAMPIRE system was delivered to Ukraine as part of the military aid package announced by the United States in 2022. The system uses laser-guided Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) rockets adapted to intercept drones from ground-based platforms. One of the system’s main advantages is its ability to be mounted on commercial pickup trucks, allowing rapid mobility and deployment in different areas without the need for specialized military vehicles.
According to documentation released by the U.S. Navy, SNC will be responsible for providing engineers, maintenance technicians, and field service representatives to support the systems operated by Ukrainian naval forces. Part of the activities will take place on U.S. territory, while another portion will occur near conflict zones in Eastern Europe, in coordination with NATO structures. The goal is to ensure the systems remain operational despite the accelerated wear caused by constant combat use.
Ukraine’s demand for the VAMPIRE has increased due to Russian drone and missile attacks against port facilities, naval bases, and coastal positions. The system’s mobility and simplified logistics have made it an important solution for protecting dispersed positions in contested maritime areas. The new contract also highlights that the United States remains directly involved in the technical sustainment of the weapons sent to Kyiv, maintaining a continuous support chain for equipment used on the front lines.
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Source: Defence Blog | Photo: X @front_ukrainian | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
⚡️In December, the 🇺🇸US will hand over all ordered Vampire systems to 🇺🇦Ukraine
This month, Ukraine will receive all 14 Vampire anti-drone systems that were ordered as part of military aid. pic.twitter.com/oSb8M57LbA
— 🪖MilitaryNewsUA🇺🇦 (@front_ukrainian) December 7, 2023
