The US is considering sending Stryker armored combat vehicles to Ukraine, Politico reported, citing sources.
Washington could announce the delivery as part of its next military aid package for Ukraine late next week.
The development comes after the Pentagon announced $3 billion in military aid for Ukraine, including 50 Bradley Fighting Vehicles, 100 M113 armored personnel carriers, and 55 mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles.
“Ukrainians need armored personnel carriers and short of other countries providing it, is what we have in inventory,” a Pentagon official said.
“Not as good as a Bradley for a tank fight, but good to protect infantry and get up close to a fight.”
Complements Bradley and Humvee
The General Dynamics Land Systems vehicle is more maneuverable than the tracked Bradley and offers more protection than Humvee.
The eight-wheel vehicle can operate in mud, snow, and sand, accommodating nine soldiers, compared to six in the Bradley.
Features
The Stryker has a maximum speed of 60 miles (97 kilometers) per hour, capable of traveling up to 300 miles (483 kilometers) without refueling.
The vehicle comes fitted with a Protector M151 Remote Weapon Station, including a .50-caliber machine gun or an MK19 grenade launcher.
Meanwhile, Canada also delivered the first of 39 armored combat vehicles to Ukraine earlier this month.
The Canada-delivered vehicles are similar to the Stryker, having been manufactured by the same company and were originally intended for the Canadian Armed Forces.
