By Mike Stone, Patricia Zengerle and Gerry Doyle
Exciting news on the horizon as the U.S. is on the verge of an agreement to arm Ukraine with long-range cruise missiles that could potentially reach deep into Russia. This game-changing move is expected to be announced this autumn, pending the resolution of technical issues.
The inclusion of Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSM) in the weapons package could have a significant impact on the strategic landscape of the conflict, giving Ukraine the ability to strike deep into Russian territory with precision-guided munitions. This development is a top priority for the Biden administration.
Analysts believe that equipping Ukraine with JASSMs, which have a longer range and are stealthier than their current arsenal, could push Russian staging areas back by hundreds of miles, disrupting their offensive operations and providing Ukraine with a strategic advantage.
The JASSM, currently integrated into U.S.-designed aircraft, will be carried by Ukraine's fleet of F-16s. Efforts are also underway to make the missile compatible with non-Western fighter jets in Ukraine's inventory, which includes Soviet-era MiG-29, Su-24, and Su-27 jets.
Providing Ukraine with JASSMs would not only enhance their defensive capabilities but also put pressure on the U.S. to lift restrictions on how these weapons can be used. This move could potentially escalate the conflict if not handled carefully.
Each JASSM boasts a 1,000-pound warhead and utilizes GPS signals and an infrared imaging seeker for precise targeting. Despite potential vulnerabilities to electronic warfare, the JASSM's accuracy and stealth capabilities make it a formidable weapon.
Analysis:
In summary, the U.S. is on the brink of supplying Ukraine with long-range cruise missiles, a move that could significantly shift the dynamics of the conflict with Russia. Equipping Ukraine with JASSMs would allow them to strike deep into Russian territory, disrupting offensive operations and providing a strategic advantage.
However, this development raises concerns about potential escalations in the conflict and the need for careful handling of these powerful weapons. The impact of providing Ukraine with JASSMs extends beyond the battlefield, affecting geopolitical relations and the balance of power in the region.