Since 2014, Ukraine has been enduring an ongoing conflict with Russia-backed separatists in the eastern part of the country, which has extended for more than 1,000 days. Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, appears committed to bolstering the country’s aerial defense capabilities as a way of dealing with the crisis.
Zelenskyy has expressed interest in acquiring the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), a surface-to-surface missile produced by Lockheed Martin used by the US Army. This system is capable of striking targets up to 300 kilometers away, and can carry a payload of up to 500 pounds, making it a potentially effective deterrent against further aggression.
President Zelenskyy has also been considering the use of drones and other missile systems to boost Ukraine’s aerial capabilities. Drones, with their ability to gather intelligence and carry out surgical strikes, could provide an invaluable tool in the ongoing fight against the separatists. Further details or timelines regarding these acquisitions have not been disclosed.
It’s important to remember that while these military advancements are noteworthy, the human cost of this conflict is significant. The war in Ukraine has resulted in over 13,000 deaths and displaced up to 2.5 million people. Despite the ongoing conflicts, Ukraine remains firm in its resolve to defend its sovereignty.
