US Failed to Plan Upkeep for Weapons Sent to Ukraine, Watchdog Says
- M1 tanks, Patriot interceptors sent without sustainment plans
- Inspector general says Pentagon is now working on such plans
The Pentagon focuses considerable attention on the sustainment of weapons systems, which often amount to more than 70% of program costs.
Photographer: Anatolii Stepanov/AFP/Getty Images
The Pentagon failed to prepare adequate plans upfront to guide Ukraine forces in maintaining fighting vehicles, like M1 tanks, as well as Patriot air defense interceptors, according to the inspector general for the Defense Department.
“The DoD provided Ukraine with armored vehicles and air defense systems without a plan to ensure their long-term usefulness,” Inspector General Robert Storch said as he released two reports on Tuesday. “While the DoD is currently working on developing such a plan, the lack of foresight in this matter is concerning, and should be rectified promptly.”