In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, the deployment of Western long-range weaponry has become a significant development. As Ukraine receives advanced weaponry from its allies, including the United States and European nations, the potential targets within Russia are becoming increasingly clear.
Western Support to Ukraine
Since the outbreak of the conflict in 2022, the United States and several European countries have provided Ukraine with a substantial amount of weaponry, including long-range missiles. The British government has recently decided to allow Ukraine to use Storm Shadow cruise missiles against targets within Russia. These missiles, which have a range of approximately 250 kilometers, can fly at supersonic speeds and are equipped with high-explosive warheads capable of penetrating well-protected targets.
Storm Shadow Cruise Missiles
Apart from the Storm Shadow cruise missiles, Ukraine has also received the long-range version of the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) from the United States. This system has a range of over 300 kilometers, extending Ukraine’s reach significantly. The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) believes that the long-range ATACMS enhances Ukraine’s ability to target Russian military objectives. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has identified over 200 known military and paramilitary targets within Russia that are within the range of Ukraine’s ATACMS.
Russian Response
In response to the increasing threat from these advanced weapons, the Russian military has taken several measures to protect its territory. The Russian Air Force has moved aircraft to bases outside the range of the ATACMS. Additionally, the Russian领土 defense is being bolstered by modern air defense systems such as the Kornet-S, S-400, and the latest S-500 systems, which are expected to provide the last line of defense against incoming missiles.
Challenges for Ukraine
While Ukraine has access to these powerful weapons, there are challenges in their deployment. According to Russian media, Ukraine lacks a sufficient number of aircraft to launch the Storm Shadow cruise missiles effectively. Moreover, the ground-launched ATACMS has been intercepted by the Russian military on multiple occasions. Despite these challenges, the presence of these advanced weapons in Ukraine’s arsenal poses a significant threat to Russian interests.
Conclusion
The use of Western long-range weaponry by Ukraine in the conflict with Russia has expanded the potential targets within Russia. The Storm Shadow cruise missiles and the long-range ATACMS provide Ukraine with the capability to target well-protected military installations and infrastructure. While the Russian military is taking measures to protect its territory, the presence of these advanced weapons in Ukraine’s arsenal has the potential to escalate the conflict and change the balance of power on the battlefield.
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