Ukraine Uses US ATACMS Missiles Against Russia

Why in the news?

Ukraine deployed US-made ATACMS missiles for the first time, striking Russian military targets, marking a significant shift in US policy amid rising tensions in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

What are ATACMS Missiles?

  • ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) is a US-made long-range missile system.
  • Variants include M39A1 Block IA and M57, with a range of 70-300
  • M39A1 carries up to 300 cluster bomblets, while M57 delivers a single 230-kg high-explosive warhead.
  • Guided by GPS, these missiles were first used in conflicts like Operation Iraqi Freedom (1997) and in 2001.

Ukraine Uses US ATACMS Missiles Against Russia

Why Did the US Authorise Their Use?

  • The Biden administration reversed its policy, allowing Ukraine to use ATACMS in October 2023.
  • This decision followed Ukraine’s repeated requests to strike Russian targets far from the border.
  • The change comes amid Russia deploying North Korean ground troops, raising concerns in Washington and Kyiv.
  • The move enables Ukraine to enhance its long-range strike capabilities.

Impact on the Russia-Ukraine War

  • Ukraine can now target key Russian military assets deep within Russia, including the Kursk region.
  • The region hosts significant Russian forces and North Korean troops.
  • Hundreds of known Russian military sites are reportedly within ATACMS range.
  • Anticipating these strikes, some Russian assets have been moved deeper into the country to minimise damage.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times