The United States Delivers ATACMS Missiles To Ukraine
New Long-Range Ballistic Missiles Sent To Kyiv, Following Secret Shipment
Overt Operator
October 18, 2023
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Tuesday, October 17, that Ukraine had launched Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) at Russian forces. This action comes after the United States secretly provided a small number of these long-range ballistic missiles to Kyiv in recent days, as earlier reported by the US federal government link publication Voice of America.
Zelenskyy expressed his satisfaction with the implementation of agreements made between Ukraine and President Biden, stating that the ATACMS have proven themselves in combat. These missiles, manufactured by U.S. company Lockheed Martin, allow Ukrainian forces to reach deeper into Russian-controlled territory and engage surface targets from a safer distance.
ATACMS missiles can be integrated into Ukraine's existing High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS).
Previously, the U.S. had supplied only Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets with a range of approximately 90 kilometers (60 miles). However, the U.S. has now provided Ukraine with a limited number of the older variants of ATACMS, extending their reach to a maximum range of about 170 kilometers (106 miles). Newer versions of ATACMS can achieve a range of over 300 kilometers (186 miles).
This development follows the Biden administration's change of heart regarding the provision of military support to Ukraine. Initially, requests for American-made Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, and F-16 fighter jets were declined. However, the White House later approved Ukraine's acquisition of these military assets.
The decision to supply ATACMS missiles underscores the growing concern over the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. By bolstering Ukraine's military capabilities, the U.S. aims to support its ally in defending its sovereignty and deterring further aggression from Russia.
The introduction of ATACMS missiles provides Ukraine with a significant advantage in targeting Russian forces without having to put its troops at risk on the front lines. This extended range allows Ukrainian forces to strike deeper into Russian-controlled areas, restricting the enemy's freedom of movement and enhancing Ukraine's defensive capabilities.
As tensions escalate on the Ukrainian-Russian border, the implementation of these agreements and the provision of advanced weaponry serve as a clear message of support from the United States. The situation remains fluid, and the international community watches closely as Ukraine continues to fortify its defenses against Russian aggression.
Ukraine's deployment of ATACMS missiles, made possible by U.S. support, marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. As President Zelenskyy affirms the accurate implementation of agreements with President Biden, these missiles provide Ukraine with a crucial advantage in defending its sovereignty and deterring further aggression.