How long range missiles striking inside Russia will change the Ukraine war | BBC News

Summary

In this discussion, experts analyze President Biden's decision to approve the use of the U.S. Army's ATACMS missiles by Ukraine. While this move is welcomed by Ukraine and its allies, it raises questions about its timing and impact, particularly with the impending change in U.S. administration. The conversation focuses on the strategic importance of the Kers region and how ATACMS, combined with other missile systems like Storm Shadow and Scalp, enhances Ukraine's ability to target Russian positions deep inside their territory. The discussion also touches on the logistical and military implications for both Ukraine and Russia.

Takeaways

• 😀 The decision to allow the use of US Army's tactical missile system (ATACMS) inside Russia is a significant move, welcomed by Ukraine and its European partners, particularly after a period of heavy bombardment aimed at Ukraine's power grid.
• 😀 The timing of the decision is questioned by some, with some seeing it as too late, but the approval comes at a time of escalating tensions, particularly with the introduction of North Korean troops into Russia.
• 😀 The attack on the Kers region, where 8,000 to 10,000 North Korean troops were reported earlier, is now a focal point, with additional Russian troops complicating the situation.
• 😀 The provision of long-range ATACMS missiles gives Ukraine an enhanced capability for striking targets deep inside Russian territory, providing significant strategic advantage.
• 😀 ATACMS missiles, which are highly maneuverable and difficult to intercept, are launched from a mobile High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), increasing their effectiveness against Russian defenses.
• 😀 The range of the ATACMS missile system is 190 miles, significantly extending Ukraine’s strike reach and offering a key asset for defense, especially against threats from Russia’s Black Sea region.
• 😀 Ukraine has received long-range missile systems like Storm Shadow from the UK and Scalp from France, both of which are similar and require air platforms such as MIG-29 and SU-27 jets for deployment.
• 😀 The US’s role in approving the use of these missile systems is pivotal, as they are the primary financial supporter of Ukraine, and the approval ensures a unified NATO approach to Ukraine’s defense needs.
• 😀 The UK is also looking to replenish its missile capabilities, with new trials for a mini-cruise missile called Spear, which could eventually support the F35B Lightning, although Ukraine is unlikely to receive it soon.
• 😀 The use of ATACMS could alter Russia’s military plans, particularly by targeting logistics and supply routes in the Kers region, making it more difficult for Russia to sustain its offensive operations.
• 😀 The attack on Ukraine, particularly in the Kers region, is seen as a high priority for Ukraine's counter-strategy, with ATACMS helping to degrade Russia’s military infrastructure, including command and control, air defenses, and logistical resupply.

Q & A

Why has President Joe Biden's decision to greenlight the use of the US Army's tactical missile system (ATACMS) inside Russia been considered late?

Many people believe the decision has come late due to the prolonged nature of the conflict and the need for stronger support for Ukraine. Additionally, Ukraine has been fighting with limited resources and capabilities for a long time, which has made it difficult for them to fully defend against Russian advances.

What is the main reason for Biden's decision to approve the use of ATACMS missiles in Ukraine?

The decision was largely influenced by the introduction of North Korean troops in Russia, specifically in the Kers region. The presence of up to 50,000 Russian and DPRK troops in that region created a strategic need for a stronger response from Ukraine.

What does the ATACMS missile system offer Ukraine that it didn't have before?

The ATACMS missile system provides Ukraine with long-range strike capabilities. Previously, Ukraine had access to medium-range missiles, but the approval of the long-range ATACMS gives them the ability to target deep inside Russian territory, enhancing their offensive capabilities.

How does the ATACMS missile work, and what is its speed and range?

The ATACMS missile has a range of up to 190 miles and a speed of around Mach 3 (2,600 miles per hour). This makes it hard to intercept by Russian air defense systems due to its maneuverability and high speed.

Why is the Kers region so significant in the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine?

The Kers region is a key area of military engagement, especially with the presence of a large number of DPRK and Russian troops. This area has become a strategic focal point for both defensive and offensive operations.

What are the Storm Shadow and Scalp missiles, and how do they support Ukraine's defense efforts?

The Storm Shadow (used by the UK) and Scalp (used by France) are cruise missiles with a range of around 155 miles. These missiles can be launched from fighter jets and are key for Ukraine to target Russian infrastructure and military sites deeper inside Russian-controlled territories.

Why does Ukraine need the US' approval to use Storm Shadow or Scalp missiles?

While these missiles are provided by the UK and France, US approval is necessary as the United States is a major NATO member and the biggest contributor to Ukraine's military support. A coordinated approach ensures consistency in strategic military decisions.

What is the Spear missile, and how does it relate to Ukraine's military support?

The Spear is a smaller, more compact cruise missile designed for use with the UK’s F-35B Lightning jets. Although it has a shorter range than the Storm Shadow (100 km vs. 250 km), it is an important tool for future military capabilities. It could potentially help the UK to provide more Storm Shadow missiles to Ukraine by supplementing their stocks.

What is the logistical challenge faced by Russia, and how can Ukraine leverage this with ATACMS?

Russia's logistical resupply routes, especially in the Kers region, are vulnerable. The use of ATACMS will allow Ukraine to target these resupply lines, weakening Russia's ability to sustain its military presence and operations in the area.

What impact could the introduction of ATACMS missiles have on Russia's military planning?

The introduction of ATACMS missiles into the conflict complicates Russia's military strategy. Russia must now factor in the vulnerability of its command and control centers, air defense systems, and logistics as Ukraine gains the capability to target deeper inside Russian-held territory.