The Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) Finally Joins The War in Ukraine

The MGM-140 ATACMS is a versatile missile system designed for all-weather conditions, allowing for precision strikes against targets located far from the front lines. This capability is particularly advantageous for Ukraine, given its climate, which makes air-launched attacks less feasible for a significant part of the year.

The characteristics of ATACMS missiles can vary significantly depending on the model, block number, and specific configuration. For instance, they offer flexibility in warhead options, with choices ranging from 500-pound (230 kg) penetrating high explosive blast fragmentation warheads to various other explosives weighing between 160 and 560 pounds (72 to 254 kg). These alternatives include cluster munitions designed for targeting both personnel and materials.

In operation, an ATACMS missile is launched from a mobile launch platform, such as M142 HIMARS and M270 MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket System). Ukrainian soldiers have already been effectively utilizing these mobile launch platforms for nearly a year. With the arrival of ATACM ammunition, Ukraine will fully harness the potential of these systems.

Even though Ukraine has been requesting the provision of ATACMS for a year, U.S. officials were initially hesitant due to their own limited stockpile and concerns that Russia might interpret it as a provocative move by Washington.

The supply of ATACMS represents a significant enhancement of Kyiv's ability to target Russian military supply lines over long distances, a critical capability as Ukraine braces for its second winter of conflict.

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