Reversing its previous decision to withhold these formidable weapons out of fear of a possible escalation with Russia, the United States has quietly decided to provide Ukraine the long-range Army Tactical Missile System (Atacms). This information was made public in the midst of Russia’s stepped-up assaults on the civilian infrastructure of Ukraine and the Kremlin’s deployment of ballistic missiles from North Korea.
A Tactical Adjustment
Russia’s increasing actions, which have targeted Ukraine’s vital infrastructure, had an impact on President Joe Biden’s decision to approve the Atacms shipment, according to Jake Sullivan, the U.S. National Security Adviser. With this action, the United States is indicating a change in strategy and a readiness to provide Ukraine with the weaponry it needs to successfully repel Russian aggression.
The Benefit of Atacms
Ukraine has a major tactical advantage because to the Atacms system, which has an expanded range of up to 190 miles. Now that Ukraine has access to these long-range missiles, it may launch strikes deep into Russian-controlled territory, perhaps upsetting command centers, supply routes, and other important targets. This skill may be crucial in changing the nature of the fight and how the battle plays out.
Concerns about Operational Security and Escalation
Operational security concerns drove the U.S. decision to withhold information on the Atacms cargo until recently, as requested by the Ukrainian government. Since the long-range missiles may potentially be used to attack locations within Russia’s borders, the action has sparked worries about possible escalation.
In an attempt to calm people’s concerns, Sullivan said that the deployment of the Atacms is a fitting reaction to Russia’s use of North Korean long-range missiles against Ukraine. He made it clear that the United States does not think this action would intensify hostilities but rather provide Ukraine the tools it needs to protect itself from Russian aggression.
Stock Depletion and Resupply Activities
At first, the Pentagon had opposed the transfer of Atacms, claiming that it would deplete its own supplies and jeopardize military preparedness in other vital regions. To mitigate the possible effect on its readiness levels, the U.S. has subsequently solved this problem by procuring new Atacms systems straight off the assembly line.
Not a Silver Bullet, but an Important Complement
Sullivan stressed that the Atacms system is an essential addition to Ukraine’s arsenal, even if he acknowledged that it won’t be a “silver bullet” in the battle on its own. He emphasized that in the end, this conflict would be decided by the combination of different capabilities as well as the valor and competence of Ukrainian warriors.
One thought on “U.S. Secretly Sends Long-Range Missiles to Ukraine: A Game Changer?”