Ukraine to receive thousands of new long-range missiles from the US

Ukraine expected to receive thousands of new long-range missiles from the US
Ukraine expected to receive thousands of new long-range missiles from the US (X @Osinttechnical)

Ukraine is about to receive a significant boost in its long-range strike capability. Reports indicate that the United States has approved the transfer of thousands of ERAM (Extended Range Attack Munition) missiles, a new air-launched weapon designed to be relatively inexpensive and rapidly produced.

With a range between 240 and 450 kilometers, these munitions will allow Ukrainian forces to hit deep Russian strategic targets such as command centers, logistics depots, and air bases far beyond the front lines. The first batches are expected to be delivered within the next six weeks.

However, a major question remains about the use of these new weapons. Unnamed U.S. sources warn that the Pentagon may impose restrictions, requiring prior approval for each mission targeting deep Russian territory. This condition reflects an ongoing debate in Washington over how far to support strikes inside Russia’s borders, a policy already applied to other systems like the ATACMS missiles.

The package, valued at approximately $850 million, is largely funded by Ukraine’s European allies.

The ERAM project goes beyond immediate aid to Kyiv, also serving as a crucial test case for the U.S. itself. The weapon was developed with modern defense concepts in mind: modularity, low cost, and rapid mass production. Additionally, it is designed to operate in contested environments, with navigation systems resistant to electronic warfare and GPS jamming—a constant threat that Russian forces have effectively used against other Western precision munitions.

While awaiting the arrival of the new missiles, Ukraine has been exploring domestic alternatives to fill this strategic gap. President Volodymyr Zelensky recently highlighted the use of locally produced weapons, such as the new “Flamingo” cruise missile and an extended-range version of the “Neptune” missile, stating that his country has not recently discussed deep strike routes with the U.S.

The arrival of ERAM thus represents an important tactical advance, but its final impact will depend on the engagement rules set by Washington.

Source: The War Zone | Photo: X @Osinttechnica | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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