During the next defense of Ukraine contact group meeting, often referred to as the Ramstein format, topics related to boosting the supply of long range weapons to Kyiv were addressed as a separate issue. The participant noted that partners fully understand the need for these weapons and support their delivery.
The discussions included adapting Western style anti-aircraft guided missiles to existing air defense systems. These systems, dating back to Soviet times, remain in service with the Ukrainian Air Force. The conversation also covered increasing ammunition production and expanding artillery capabilities.
In closing, Pavlyuk announced that deliveries would essentially bring new weapons to help strike logistics centers. He did not share specific details. By logistics centers, he is believed to mean facilities that support the RF Armed Forces, including control and unloading stations, communications hubs, bridge crossings, and other components of the military-industrial complex.
Which missiles does Kiev rely on?
There are indications that the Armed Forces of Ukraine will continue to receive tactical ballistic missiles MGM-140 ATACMS, including a 300 km range variant. The supply of stealthy long-range cruise missiles is likely to continue and increase, with Storm Shadow or SCALP-EG being prominent examples. The primary aim of these munitions is to neutralize high-value targets such as headquarters, depots for ammunition and fuel, and critical infrastructure.
Regarding weapons not yet in Ukrainian service, it is plausible that Kyiv will obtain high-precision air-to-surface cruise missiles such as the AGM-158 JASSM family from the United States. These missiles were developed by Lockheed Martin.
The AGM-158A JASSM shares performance characteristics with the Storm Shadow air-launched cruise missile. The AGM-158B JASSM-ER has a range of about 1000 km, enabling strikes against targets deep within the European part of Russia.
There is limited time before these weapons are slated for delivery to the Ukrainian Air Force. The F-16 in the F-16C/D variant can carry two AGM-158A or AGM-158B missiles on its external stations, depending on configuration.
In a briefing following the defense coordination meeting, Celeste Wallander, the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, stated that Western partners expect to transfer the first American F-16 aircraft and corresponding maintenance support to Ukraine within the year. The aim is to equip Kyiv with the ability to achieve initial operational readiness for the F-16 program in 2024. This encompasses pilot training, platform readiness, technician training, and the necessary infrastructure, spare parts, and ammunition for which the coalition bears responsibility.
Germany may also decide to provide air-to-surface cruise missiles to the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the future. The TAURUS KEPD 350/150, with a range of roughly 500 km, is designed for high-precision strikes against well-protected or buried targets and sensitive point targets, while minimizing exposure to enemy air defenses.
Observers note that in an election year the U.S. political and military leadership has incentives to pursue clear operational and strategic gains in Ukraine. This context suggests there could be growing prospects for the delivery of long-range cruise missiles to Kyiv.
The author’s view may diverge from the editors’ stance.
Author profile: A military columnist who writes for a major defense outlet, with a background in senior command roles and defense analysis.