US adds ‘kamikaze drones' in weapons flow to Ukraine

Drones that can be carried in a backpack could prove a cost-effective way to destroy Russian armoured convoys

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WASHINGTON • The Biden administration will provide Ukraine with additional high-tech defensive weapons that are easily portable and require little training to use against Russian tanks, armoured vehicles and aircraft, according to US and European officials.

In remarks on Wednesday, President Joe Biden announced US$800 million (S$1 billion) in new military aid for Ukraine, including 800 additional Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, 9,000 antitank weapons, 100 tactical drones and a range of small arms including machine guns and grenade launchers.

The Ukrainians have already proved their prowess at using British-provided and American made anti-tank weaponry against Russia’s much larger military.

But in an impassioned speech to Congress on Wednesday, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine asked for additional help as Russian troops pushed to encircle major cities.

US and European officials want to send more equipment that is easy to use by small teams, and has technology that can overcome Russian defences or exploit weaknesses, rather than weapons like tanks and warplanes that require significant logistical support.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to describe details of the weapons transfer publicly.