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This article discusses the potential supply of long-range cruise missiles, in particular, Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSM), to Ukraine by the United States. Although a final decision has not yet been made, the deal is expected to be announced this fall. This was reported by Reuters.

So far, despite the missile bombardment of civilian infrastructure and the destruction of civilians, the United States has been reluctant to supply weapons that can hit targets deep in Russia, fearing an “escalation of the conflict.” At the same time, the Ukrainian leadership has long asked to be allowed to use missiles and other weapons from Western partners on the territory of the Russian Federation.

Strategic goals

The delivery of the JASSM will significantly change the strategic landscape of the conflict, as most of Russia’s territory will be within range of powerful precision munitions.

The missiles can push Russian bridgeheads and supply depots hundreds of kilometers away, hampering their ability to support offensive operations.

The JASSM would allow Ukraine to strike targets about 300 kilometers away on Russian territory, including at least 30 air bases.

Ukraine will eventually have several dozen F-16 fighter jets, each of which can carry two JASSM missiles. Efforts are underway to make the missiles compatible with other non-Western fighters in service with Ukraine.

JASSM

Technical characteristics of the missile

  • The JASSM has a range of about 370 km and is designed to be stealthy. It can also fly close to the ground and can be programmed to take circular routes that avoid air defenses.
  • Each JASSM has a large warhead weighing 450 kg.
  • The missile is guided by GPS signals, inertial navigation and an infrared thermal imager.

The missiles are expected to be highly effective, even in conditions of strong interference.

Overall, the potential delivery of JASSM to Ukraine is a significant event in the conflict that could give Ukraine a strategic advantage and change the dynamics of the war.

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