Ukraine’s Use of U.S. Ballistic Missiles

The Biden administration has recently authorised Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied ballistic missiles, marking an important shift in policy. This decision allows Ukraine to employ Army Tactical Missile Systems, or ATACMS, against Russian and North Korean forces. The move comes as Ukraine prepares for potential assaults in the Kursk region. The ATACMS are designed to strike targets deep behind enemy lines, enhancing Ukraine’s military capabilities.

What are ATACMS?

ATACMS are short-range ballistic missiles manufactured by Lockheed Martin. They can hit targets up to 190 miles away. Each missile carries a warhead weighing about 375 pounds. Unlike artillery rockets, ATACMS fly higher and further, returning to the ground at high speeds. They can be launched from HIMARS mobile systems and older M270 launchers.

Historical Context of ATACMS

Developed in the 1980s, ATACMS were created to destroy high-value Soviet targets. They represented a shift towards guided munitions during a time when the U.S. primarily relied on unguided bombs. The Pentagon currently has two versions – one is a cluster weapon and the other carries a single explosive charge.

Reasons for Delayed Authorization

The U.S. hesitated to provide Ukraine with ATACMS due to concerns over escalating the conflict. Since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, President Zelenskyy has requested more powerful weapons. The Biden administration previously withheld approval for strikes inside Russia, fearing a potential escalation into a broader conflict.

Potential Military Applications

With the recent approval, Ukraine can use ATACMS to target Russian and North Korean troop concentrations, military equipment, and supply lines. This capability is crucial for Ukraine as it faces a major assault from Russian forces. The use of these missiles could impact the effectiveness of the Russian counteroffensive.

Previous Use of ATACMS by the U.S.

The U.S. has previously employed ATACMS in combat. During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, around 30 missiles were launched against Iraq. They were effective in targeting missile launchers and air defence systems. The Army also used over 400 missiles during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. Due to concerns about cluster munitions, the Army later modified ATACMS to carry a single explosive charge instead of bomblets.

Current Inventory and Future Implications

It remains unclear how many ATACMS Ukraine has available for use. The U.S. supplied several hundred missiles last year, including those for the Crimean Peninsula. The current military situation in Kursk will determine the role of ATACMS in Ukraine’s strategy.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the strategic implications of the U.S. supplying ATACMS to Ukraine in the context of international relations.
2. Discuss the evolution of military technology from unguided to guided munitions, taking examples from the Cold War era.
3. Critically discuss the potential consequences of using ballistic missiles in modern warfare, with suitable examples.
4. Analyse the role of international diplomacy in conflict resolution, particularly in the context of the Ukraine-Russia war.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the strategic implications of the U.S. supplying ATACMS to Ukraine in the context of international relations.

1. Strengthens Ukraine’s military capabilities, potentially altering the balance of power in Eastern Europe.
2. Signals U.S. commitment to supporting allies against aggression, impacting NATO’s collective defense posture.
3. May provoke a stronger response from Russia, escalating tensions and complicating diplomatic efforts.
4. Influences global perceptions of U.S. foreign policy and its readiness to confront authoritarian regimes.
5. Could inspire other nations to seek advanced weaponry, affecting arms control dynamics and regional stability.

2. Discuss the evolution of military technology from unguided to guided munitions, taking examples from the Cold War era.

1. Cold War marked an important shift from unguided bombs to precision-guided munitions, enhancing targeting accuracy.
2. The development of ATACMS in the 1980s exemplifies the move towards guided systems for strategic strikes on high-value targets.
3. Technological advancements, like GPS and laser guidance, revolutionized air power and land warfare tactics.
4. Examples include the U.S. use of laser-guided bombs in Vietnam, leading to higher success rates in targeting.
5. The arms race during the Cold War spurred innovation in missile technology, influencing current military strategies.

3. Critically discuss the potential consequences of using ballistic missiles in modern warfare, with suitable examples.

1. Ballistic missiles can cause important destruction, leading to high civilian casualties and humanitarian crises, as seen in conflicts like Iraq and Syria.
2. They may escalate conflicts rapidly, as their use can provoke retaliatory strikes and broaden warfare, risking regional stability.
3. Deployment of such weapons could lead to strategic miscalculations, potentially triggering larger scale wars.
4. Examples include the use of SCUD missiles during the Gulf War, demonstrating both effectiveness and collateral damage.
5. International norms and treaties may be challenged, complicating arms control efforts and encouraging an arms race.

4. Analyse the role of international diplomacy in conflict resolution, particularly in the context of the Ukraine-Russia war.

1. Diplomacy is crucial for de-escalating tensions and negotiating ceasefires, as seen in various peace talks since the conflict began.
2. International organizations, like the UN and OSCE, play very important roles in mediating discussions and monitoring ceasefire agreements.
3. Sanctions and diplomatic pressure from Western nations aim to deter further Russian aggression and support Ukraine’s sovereignty.
4. Dialogue between major powers, including the U.S. and Russia, is essential for establishing frameworks for peace and stability.
5. However, differing national interests and historical grievances complicate negotiations, often leading to stalemates.