Ukraine aims high: Zelensky eyes long-range missiles in battle plan
The Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, announced a strategy to "destroy the Russian war machine." The Ukrainian portal Defense Express experts analyzed this part of the so-called victory plan.
11:29 AM EDT, October 17, 2024
"Strategic deterrence package"—with these words, Zelensky describes the tools he intends to use to stop the Russians and ultimately lead Ukraine to victory in the conflict. "There is a secret annex involving the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, and several other countries," reads Defense Express. Ukraine's allies are expected to help implement the concept of deterrence.
Missiles with a range of over 600 miles
Although the exact contents of the package have not been disclosed, analysts have attempted to determine what it might include. They point out that support from allies does not involve ATACMS or PrSM missiles, which have a range of approximately 300 miles. Defense Express suggests considering means with a range exceeding even 600 miles.
The package's list of potential support may include Tomahawk cruise missiles, which can be launched from Typhoon ground launchers, as well as missiles from the Land Cruise Missile project—a project under development by MDBA, aligning with the announced list of European countries.
The deployment of long-range weapons like the mentioned Tomahawks in Ukraine (the range of the Land Cruise Missile is unknown) will bring the White Sea's Arkhangelsk within Kyiv's reach. This is significant because changes in Russia's nuclear doctrine suggest that Moscow may increasingly threaten with nuclear weapons.
American Tomahawks
Tomahawk missiles were developed in the 1970s and entered service in 1983, during the Cold War when the U.S. aimed to demonstrate its military dominance. Thanks to their range and precision, Tomahawks quickly became a key element in NATO's arsenal. They were deployed in the United Kingdom, West Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands.
The Tomahawk, about 20 feet long and weighing 2,900 pounds, stands out for its ability to strike targets over more than 1,700 miles. The missile's warhead weighs 660 pounds. The high precision and range make it an extremely effective weapon in military operations. The Tomahawk can be launched from various platforms, including ships and aircraft, providing significant operational flexibility.
Due to continuous improvements, such as integration with modern guidance systems and increased resistance to electronic countermeasures, these missiles remain at the forefront of global military technology. Introducing new versions and continuous upgrades ensures that the Tomahawk will remain a key element in NATO's and the U.S.'s arsenal for many years.
