Chancellor Friedrich Merz has confirmed that Ukraine is now authorized to strike targets inside Russia using long-range Western weapons. Until recently, these weapons were only deployed against Russian forces occupying parts of Ukraine. Merz stressed that a country must be able to hit aggressors beyond its borders to defend itself effectively. He added that this policy change was decided months ago but is now being implemented openly. According to Merz, this shift marks a significant transformation in Ukraine’s military capabilities and strategic response.
Ukraine’s arsenal now includes US-supplied ATACMS missiles, which can reach targets up to 300 kilometers away. These missiles, produced by Lockheed Martin, are launched from HIMARS or MLRS M270 platforms and have been used in various combat operations. Russia claimed to have intercepted six ATACMS missiles over its territory in November 2024. Reports indicate that Ukraine first employed these missiles in October 2023, successfully destroying Russian helicopters.
Another critical element of Ukraine’s long-range strike capability is the Storm Shadow missile, manufactured jointly by France and the UK. These heavy missiles weigh around 1,300 kilograms and have a range exceeding 250 kilometers. Designed to target bunkers and key stationary military assets, Storm Shadows use GPS guidance, onboard systems, and terrain mapping for precision. An infrared sensor confirms the final target before the warhead detonates, allowing the missile to penetrate soil or bunkers before exploding. The missile is already in active service with France, the UK, and Italy.
Meanwhile, Germany remains engaged in a political debate over supplying Ukraine with Taurus missiles. The Taurus KEPD 350, developed by Saab and MBDA Deutschland, is designed to strike bunkers and radar installations with a 481-kilogram MEPHISTO warhead. Its low-flying profile helps evade enemy defenses. Taurus missiles have a range of over 500 kilometers and weigh approximately 1,400 kilograms. Before the February 2024 election, Merz supported sending Taurus missiles to Ukraine. Now, he advocates for joint missile production projects between Ukraine and Germany and confirmed that cooperation could occur in both countries. However, despite lifting export restrictions, Merz did not confirm whether Taurus missiles will be delivered to Ukraine.
This development marks a crucial step in Western military support for Ukraine. The expanded use of long-range missiles strengthens Ukraine’s ability to defend itself and counter Russian aggression more effectively. As the conflict continues, the evolving arsenal and strategic partnerships signal deeper cooperation between Ukraine and Western allies.