Why Giving Ukraine Tomahawk Missiles Could Be a Game-Changer in the Russia-Ukraine War
The potential sale of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine by the United States has sparked intense debate and could significantly alter the dynamics of the ongoing conflict. President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will discuss this matter during their White House meeting on Friday, with the possibility of a deal being struck.
The Significance of Tomahawk Missiles
Tomahawk missiles, known for their deep-strike capability, are a formidable weapon system. They possess a much longer range than the conventional missiles the U.S. has previously provided to Ukraine, enabling them to hit targets deep within Russia. This extended range, coupled with their speed and destructive power, could potentially turn the tide of the war.
Historical Context and Technical Details
Tomahawk missiles, developed by Raytheon (RTX), are subsonic cruise missiles typically launched from U.S. Navy ships and submarines. They have a substantial weight of 1,315 kilograms (2,900 pounds) at launch and measure around 5.55 meters (18.2 feet) in length. The cost of a single missile is a staggering $1.3 million. These missiles have been used extensively by the U.S. and its allies, with over 2,350 launches in operational environments.
The Evolution of Tomahawk Missiles
The Navy initiated the development of sea-launched cruise missiles in the 1970s, aiming for subsonic speeds at low altitudes to evade radar detection. Over the past 50 years, these missiles have undergone several renovations and upgrades. The Block II was introduced in the 1980s, followed by the Block III in 1993, and the Block IV in the early 2000s.
The Uncertainty Surrounding Missile Generation
One intriguing aspect is the uncertainty regarding the generation of Tomahawk missiles Ukraine would receive. Older versions, according to Ukrainian officials, might be more susceptible to Russian air defense systems. This concern highlights the delicate balance between providing effective weapons and ensuring their safety and effectiveness.
Global Possession and Usage
Tomahawk missiles are not widely available, with only a few nations possessing them. The United States and the United Kingdom are the primary carriers. Japan recently agreed to purchase up to 400 Tomahawk cruise missiles from the U.S. for $2.35 billion, indicating a growing interest in this technology. Australia and the Netherlands have also acquired Tomahawk missiles.
The U.S. Use of Tomahawk Missiles
Tomahawk missiles are typically employed when the U.S. seeks to engage in long-range strikes. In 2017, President Trump launched 50 to 60 Tomahawk missiles against Syria, targeting an airfield near Homs. More recently, in 2024, the U.S. and the U.K. conducted attacks on Houthi rebel sites in Yemen. Operation Midnight Hammer, a surprise U.S. military attack on Iranian nuclear facilities in June, also utilized dozens of Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles (TLAMs).
Comparative Analysis with Other Missiles
The U.S. has authorized Ukraine to use the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), which has a shorter range of 300 kilometers (190 miles). Ukraine also possesses U.S.-supplied Extended Range Attack Munition (ERAM) missiles, capable of reaching 240 to 450 kilometers (150-280 miles). In comparison, the Storm Shadow and Scalp cruise missiles have a range of 155 miles. Ukraine has also developed its own missile systems, such as Palianytsia and Flamingo, but they lack the extensive track record of the Tomahawk.
The Controversy and Potential Impact
The potential sale of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine is a controversial topic. Critics argue that the missiles' range might be overestimated, and the 2,500-kilometer peak range is considered a historical exception. However, even the lower end of the range would place Moscow within reach of the Ukrainian border. This development could significantly alter the conflict's dynamics and potentially shift the war's trajectory.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The meeting between President Trump and President Zelensky on Friday will be pivotal in determining the fate of the Tomahawk missile sale. While the potential benefits are substantial, the decision must be made with careful consideration of the risks and implications. The outcome of this discussion will undoubtedly shape the future of the Russia-Ukraine war and the global geopolitical landscape.
