What is Ukraine’s new weapon supplied by US that Putin hates?

ATACMS: America's Secret Missile System Set to Devastate Russia's Occupying Forces

After pleading for long-range missiles, Ukraine is finally receiving the powerful Army Tactical Missile System - better known as ATACMS. This game-changing weapon could cripple Russia's invasion by striking far behind enemy lines.

Ukraine Begs for Long-Range Missiles

Since February 2022, Ukraine urgently requested ATACMS missiles from the West. Fearing escalation with Russia, the US refused or provided limited munitions like short-range HIMARS rockets.

But Russia faces no restrictions, launching attacks on Ukraine from its own territory. After Ukraine's success with British Storm Shadow missiles, approving ATACMS signals a policy shift.

Precision guided weapons that can hit Russian assets far from the frontlines are critical for Ukraine's victory. Without them, its forces remain at a major disadvantage.

ATACMS Origins and Capabilities

ATACMS evolved from Cold War programs to precisely strike Soviet bloc forces using conventional warheads. Its name stands for Army Tactical Missile System.

ATACMS proved highly effective in the 1990 Gulf War, disabling Iraqi command, control and logistics. But facing budget pressure, the US nearly discontinued the missile system before relenting and extending its service life.

Now aging ATACMS stocks are being rushed to Ukraine before next-gen replacements are ready. With a 600-kilogram warhead and 300-kilometer range, ATACMS threatens Russia's occupation forces.

Why ATACMS Complements Other Weapons

The UK's Storm Shadow missiles are already stretching Russian air defenses thin. Though easier to intercept, ATACMS will face depleted Russian anti-missile stocks.

Fired from mobile HIMARS launchers, ATACMS can strike with surprise then quickly relocate before Russia can react. Paired with drones identifying targets, ATACMS will baffle Russia's military.

As Ukraine's counteroffensive advances, Russia must spread its weakened air defenses even thinner. ATACMS can then exploit gaps to wreak havoc on command posts and infrastructure.

Russia's Limited Options to Counter ATACMS

Putin will likely issue empty nuclear threats to deter further Western aid to Ukraine. However, escalation represents suicide for Russia's weakened military.

Russia also cannot locate and eliminate enough HIMARS vehicles to degrade ATACMS effectiveness. Poor intelligence hinders its ability to effectively target missile stockpiles.

If Russia's defense industry acquires scarce microchips, rebuilding depleted anti-missile supplies is possible but unlikely. Western sanctions prevent mass production.

Scenarios: How ATACMS Could Devastate Russian Forces

If Ukraine integrates ATACMS effectively, scenarios where Russia suffers catastrophic losses are easy to envision.

Cutting Off Crimea

Strikes could isolate Crimea by destroying bridges and transport links to mainland Russia. Tens of thousands of Russian troops would be stranded without supplies.

Breaking Occupation Forces

Precise missile strikes could sever command links and logistics sustaining Russia's army in southern Ukraine. Troops would be paralyzed, allowing Ukraine's military to overwhelm them.

Strategic Paralysis

Devastating attacks on infrastructure and supply depots far from the frontlines could leave Russia's military paralyzed. Troops would be rendered immobile targets for advancing Ukrainian forces.

Forcing Withdrawal

ATACMS may convince Russia that occupation is militarily and politically unsustainable. Ukraine could then liberate its territory as Russia unilaterally withdraws.

Conclusion: ATACMS Missiles Could Prove Decisive

Ukraine has proven it can leverage advanced Western weapons against Russia's lumbering military machine. The introduction of ATACMS may prove a decisive tipping point.

Striking far behind enemy lines, Ukraine can disrupt supply lines, paralyze leadership, and force withdrawal. Russia lacks adequate defenses and intelligence to counter mobile ATACMS launchers.

While the war's outcome remains uncertain, ATACMS exemplifies the West's increasing willingness to provide Ukraine the tools for victory. Now depleted and demoralized, Russia faces a dire future.

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