Some analysts believe that the most effective weapon the United States can provide to Ukraine is precision-guided missiles. The Ukrainian army, by tradition and training, focuses on artillery. It was that expertise that allowed them to quickly and efficiently use the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or HIMARS, to attack Russian munitions depots and command posts.
Russia has adjusted, withdrawing logistics centers out of range of HIMARS. A more advanced, longer-range missile, like the ATACMS, could hit those targets. But for now, the weapon that can penetrate deep into Russia is unquestionably considered too capable of provoking Putin. Although the United States has been consistently open to supplying Ukraine with more powerful weapons throughout the conflict, it has remained adamant on this point.
US officials admit that the real strength of the 31 Abrams tanks the US announced Wednesday it will send to Ukraine is that it will unlock additional German-made Leopard 2 tank grants, as well as more vehicles. more infantry and artillery combat.
An unnamed US official said the US supply of tanks would “boost the Germans and inspire the Poles” while demonstrating NATO solidarity. In addition to the 112 Leopards that Germany will send, Poland has committed to send 14 (along with hundreds of older tanks) and Canada will send 4. Norway says it will send some tanks and Spain is considering funding.
The new donations alone won’t boost combat power enough to win the war for Ukraine, but officials and outside analysts say they will help significantly.
Tanks will penetrate trenches and pave the way for infantry on Bradley Fighting Vehicles to hold the reclaimed territory.
And the tank sends an important signal to both Ukraine and Russia about continued American support. For Russia, the tanks demonstrate that the flow of weapons from the West is increasing, not decreasing. Andrea Kendall-Taylor, a former US intelligence official who now works at the Center for a New American Security, said for Ukraine it was a big morale booster.
“It is a vote of confidence that people are still investing in Ukraine recapturing its territory rather than pressing Ukraine to negotiate.” she speaks.
