4 Out of 4 Strikes — Successful: Ukraine Allowed to Hit Russia with ATACMS and Storm Shadow Missiles

Ukraine gained approval in mid-November to unleash Western long-range missiles on Russian military targets deep in its territory. Initially, the United States permitted the use of ATACMS missiles for strikes within Russia in cases of extreme necessity. The initiative was soon backed by the United Kingdom and France, which authorized the use of Storm Shadow/SCALP missiles not only on Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories but also within Russian territory to strike military targets.

This decision significantly expanded Ukraine’s defensive capabilities, allowing it to target dozens of airfields, military bases, depots, and troop deployments. Following the green light, strikes began immediately. Within a single week, Ukraine launched four precise missile strikes using ATACMS and Storm Shadow missiles against Russian military targets.

November 19: ATACMS

American-made ATACMS missiles targeted a GRAU arsenal in Russia’s Bryansk region. Despite Russian claims that the missiles were intercepted, the strike was successful, with 75% of the launched missiles reaching their targets. Repeated detonations at the site confirmed the destruction of the arsenal.

November 21: Storm Shadow

Storm Shadow missiles hit a command center for Russian forces in the Kursk direction. The strike targeted a bunker in Maryino, Kursk region, killing dozens of Russian soldiers and officers, as well as several North Korean military personnel. Dozens more were injured in the attack.

November 23: ATACMS

ATACMS missiles obliterated an S-400 air defense system in Russia’s Kursk region, taking out at least two launchers and a radar station in a strike worth hundreds of millions of dollars in damages. Troops stationed at the site were also eliminated.

November 23: ATACMS

ATACMS missiles struck the Khalino airfield near the city of Kursk. Previously home to Su-34 bombers, the airfield is now reportedly unusable due to extensive damage. While there is no confirmation of aircraft losses, the scale of destruction suggests the facility is no longer operational. These are precisely the types of high-value targets Ukraine has long requested Western long-range missiles to address. The combination of powerful warheads, high speed, and extended range allows Ukraine to neutralize such strategic assets effectively. At least 20 Russian airfields fall within the range of these missiles.

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Ukraine has remained steadfast in its pledge to use long-range missiles exclusively on military targets within Russia. This strategy aims to cripple Russia’s logistics and offensive capabilities, significantly impacting its military operations.