UK Defense Chief Reveals: Ukraine Plans Surge in Long-Range Strikes into Russia.

Ukraine is set to step up its long-range attacks inside Russia as a wave of Western military aid aims to strengthen Kyiv's position and shape the conflict more decisively. Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the UK's Chief of Defence, outlined this strategy in an interview with the Financial Times on April 25, 2024, acknowledging the difficult circumstances surrounding Ukraine's defense against advancing Russian forces.
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The first version of an Army tactical missile system is tested on 14 December 2021 at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico (Picture source: US DoD)

Radakin stressed that while the current situation may look bleak, it does not recognize the longer-term trends favorable to Ukraine. These include recent military aid packages from the US and Europe, Ukraine's increasingly effective long-range strikes, and Russia's failure to disrupt vital grain exports via the Black Sea.

Washington's decision to supply Ukraine with long-range Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles, with a range of 300 km, marks an important endorsement for Kyiv. This move underlines the commitment of Western allies to support Ukraine's defense capabilities against Russian aggression.

The ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) stands out as a short-range tactical ballistic missile developed and utilized by the United States. Renowned for its exceptional precision, it consistently achieves an error margin of less than 10 meters. With a launch weight ranging from 1,600 to 2,300 kilograms, depending on the specific variant, this missile system demonstrates remarkable versatility.

Propelled at approximately Mach 3, or roughly 3,700 km/h, the ATACMS possesses the capability to engage targets situated between 160 and 300 kilometers away. Its sophisticated design incorporates an advanced guidance system that integrates GPS and an inertial navigation system (INS).

The ATACMS is compatible with launcher vehicles such as the M270 and the M142 HIMARS, both of which are utilized by Ukrainian forces. These multiple rocket launch systems (MLRS) offer high operational mobility and flexibility on the battlefield. In terms of dimensions, the ATACMS measures 5.75 meters in length, 2.49 meters in width, and 2.4 meters in height.

Despite the ongoing debates, US President Joe Biden authorized the deployment of the longer-range system for use on sovereign Ukrainian territory, signaling a strategic shift in support for Kyiv's defense efforts. Radakin expressed confidence in Ukraine's ability to conduct in-depth operations with its growing long-range combat capabilities. He noted that such strikes are already having an impact on the conflict.

In addition to military aid, the UK government has committed to increasing defense spending and has signed long-term contracts with defense industry suppliers. These measures are designed to provide sustained support to Ukraine and strengthen its position in the ongoing conflict.

Although uncertainties remain about the overall strategy in Ukraine, Radakin stressed the importance of flexibility and adaptability in responding to changing military dynamics. He stressed the need for a nuanced approach, recognizing that tactical decisions and operational advantages will shape the course of the conflict.

The finalization of the foreign aid bill by US President Joe Biden, allocating nearly $61 billion to Ukraine, marks a crucial step in supporting Kyiv. Biden stressed the importance of enabling America's allies to defend their sovereignty against external threats and promised to speed up the delivery of weapons to Ukraine. As Ukraine gains access to advanced weapons and military technology, its ability to conduct in-depth operations and exert pressure on Russian forces should increase significantly.

Defense News April 2024