The Arsenal of Democracy
Ukraine could benefit from more precise and powerful artillery systems and advanced missiles to enhance its combat effectiveness. Here’s how each option could improve their military capabilities:
1. More Precise and Powerful Artillery
Ukraine uses 155mm artillery extensively, but more advanced versions with precision-guided capabilities and longer ranges could make a significant difference. Some examples include:
- 155mm Excalibur Shells: These are precision-guided artillery rounds that use GPS to strike targets within a few meters of accuracy, even at long ranges. Excalibur shells would allow Ukrainian forces to destroy high-value targets with fewer rounds, making their artillery more efficient. These shells are especially useful in urban environments or for hitting key logistical nodes and command centres without causing excessive collateral damage.
- Long-Range Artillery Systems: Systems like the M1299 self-propelled howitzer, which can fire precision 155mm rounds at ranges up to 70 km (compared to the 30-40 km range of current systems), would give Ukraine a significant range advantage over Russian artillery, allowing it to strike deeper behind enemy lines.
- Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS): Ukraine has already received M270 and HIMARS systems, which are incredibly effective due to their long range and accuracy. These systems use GPS-guided rockets and can launch up to 12 missiles at once, precisely hitting targets over 80 km away. Increasing the supply of HIMARS or providing longer-range munitions could further improve Ukraine's ability to hit key Russian positions.
2. Missiles for Greater Combat Effectiveness
Missiles, especially those with long-range and precision-guided capabilities, would significantly boost Ukraine’s ability to strike critical targets far behind enemy lines, disrupting Russian logistics, command structures, and air defence systems.
- ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System): This is a long-range tactical missile capable of striking targets up to 300 km away. If supplied to Ukraine, ATACMS would enable Ukrainian forces to hit Russian command posts, ammo depots, and infrastructure deep in Russian-held territories. This could force Russia to push its logistics and command centres further, complicating its supply lines.
- Longer-Range Air Defense Missiles: While Ukraine has already received NASAMS and Patriot systems, longer-range air defence and surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) would help neutralise Russian air superiority, protecting Ukrainian troops from Russian missile and aircraft strikes. Systems like SAMP/T (which Ukraine has been promised) can intercept both aircraft and ballistic missiles at longer ranges.
-Harpoon Anti-Ship Missiles: Ukraine has also successfully used Harpoon missiles to target Russian naval assets. Continuing to receive such missiles would help Ukraine maintain control over its Black Sea coast and prevent Russian forces from launching amphibious operations or blockading key ports.