US Tomahawk missile shipments to Ukraine unlikely, sources say
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Ukraine has made a request to obtain long-range Tomahawk missiles that could strike deep into Russia.
PHOTO: REUTERS
Follow topic:
- US considering Ukraine's request for long-range Tomahawk missiles, potentially striking targets deep within Russia.
- Supplying Tomahawks is unlikely due to existing commitments, but other long-range options from allies may be explored.
- Russia views Tomahawk provision as escalation; US may provide intelligence for targeting Russian energy infrastructure.
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WASHINGTON - The Trump Administration's desire to send long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine may not be viable because current inventories are committed to the US Navy and other uses, a US official and three sources said.
US Vice-President J.D. Vance said on Sept 28 that Washington was considering a Ukrainian request
On Oct 2, Reuters reported the US will provide Ukraine with intelligence
But a US official and sources familiar with Tomahawk missile training and supplies questioned the feasibility of providing the cruise missiles, which have a range of 2,500km.
The US official stressed there was no shortage of the workhorse weapon, which is often used by the military for land attack missions, suggesting other shorter-distance options could be supplied to Kyiv.
The official said the US may look into allowing European allies to buy other long-range weapons and supply them to Ukraine, but Tomahawks were unlikely.
In recent weeks, US President Donald Trump has sharply shifted how he talks about the war
The US decision to help Ukraine target Russian energy infrastructure
A new financial mechanism, the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), has been developed by the US and allies to supply Ukraine with new weapons and those from US stocks using funds from Nato countries.
Supplying Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine could significantly expand its strike capabilities, enabling it to hit targets deep inside Russian territory, including military bases, logistics hubs, airfields and command centres that are currently beyond reach.
The Kremlin said on Oct 2 that if the US provides Tomahawks to Ukraine, it would trigger a new round of dangerous escalation between Russia and the West.
According to Pentagon budget documents, the US Navy, the primary user of the Tomahawk, has thus far purchased 8,959 at an average price of US$1.3 million (S$1.6 million) each.
The Tomahawk missile has been in production since the mid-1980s. In recent years, production has ranged from 55 to 90 per year. According to Pentagon budget data, the US plans to buy 57 missiles in 2026.
Russia said on Sept 29 that its military was analysing whether or not the US would supply Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine for strikes deep into its territory. REUTERS
