TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
THE CONTEXT: The United States has confirmed providing long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to Ukraine, responding to a request made by Ukrainian President.
EXPLANATION:
- This development comes amidst ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, with the latter’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
- The recent confirmation follows the passage of a $61 billion funding bill for Ukraine by the US Congress.
ATACMS System:
- The ATACMS is a conventional surface-to-surface artillery weapon system capable of striking targets well beyond the range of existing Army cannons, rockets and other missiles.”
- Manufactured by Lockheed Martin, its maximum range is 300km.
- Notably, this is not the first time that the ATACMS system has been delivered, although the earlier systems had much shorter ranges of around 160 km.
- For instance, in October 2023, the US provided missiles with cluster munitions.
- When fired, they would open in the air and release hundreds of “bomblets” rather than a single warhead, the Associated Press reported at the time.
- ATACMS missiles are fired from the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) M270 platforms, which have the US and the United Kingdom earlier provided to Ukraine.
ATACMS missiles are fired from the HIMARS and MLRS M270 platforms, which have been provided earlier to Ukraine by the US and the United Kingdom respectively
Significance of Transfer to Ukraine
- The transfer of ATACMS missiles to Ukraine significantly enhances its long-range capabilities, artillery firepower, and air defense systems.
- These capabilities are deemed crucial by President for achieving a just peace sooner in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
- The decision to send the ATACMS system now is attributed to Russia’s intensified attacks on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine.
- The US has cited readiness concerns and the need to maintain its own supply of the system as reasons for delaying the transfer until now.
- Reports indicate that Ukraine has already utilized the ATACMS missiles, targeting Russian troops in the port city of Berdiansk.
- This underscores the immediate operational significance of the system in bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities and deterring further aggression from Russia.
- The transfer of ATACMS missiles also reflects broader geopolitical dynamics, including concerns over North Korea’s recent provision of ballistic missiles to Russia.
- The US perceives the need to counter such developments and support Ukraine’s defense efforts in the face of external threats.
Status of the Ukraine-Russia War and Funding Issues
- The conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues, with Russia’s military forces maintaining a numerical advantage over Ukraine.
- Ukraine President has consistently appealed for aid from the US and Europe to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
- Russia President has been vocal in his support for providing aid to Ukraine, emphasizing its role in promoting global security.
- The passage of the aid bill by the US Congress reflects bipartisan efforts to support Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.
- However, some Republican leaders, including former President Donald Trump, have opposed further aid to Ukraine, calling for increased contributions from Europe.
- Despite differing opinions within US political circles, the provision of ATACMS missiles underscores America’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
