German Missiles for Kiev: Evaluation of Their Impact on Power Equilibrium
In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, the potential supply of Taurus missiles from Germany has become a contentious issue. These advanced missiles, capable of striking deep inside Russian territory, could pose a significant challenge to Russian air defenses, but their acquisition remains uncertain due to various factors.
The Taurus missile, a high-precision, winged missile of the "land-air" class produced by Germany and Sweden, is estimated to cost between €3.5 million and €6 million each. Its modern combined guidance system allows it to fly long distances without GPS support, using an inertial navigation system instead. The missile's main targets are decision-making centers, airfields, air defense systems, warehouses, and other military infrastructure.
However, Germany currently has no Taurus missiles left in its inventory to supply Ukraine. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that Germany will not provide Ukraine with Taurus missiles due to the limited stock and the need to prioritize its own security. The potential consequences of supplying Taurus missiles to Ukraine include escalation of the conflict, straining Russia-Germany relations, geopolitical tensions, training and operational complexity, and the question of whether the German leadership is prepared for possible retaliatory measures from Russia.
The Ukrainian Armed Forces lack suitable carriers for the Taurus missiles, limiting their ability for massive strikes. Various Western-produced aircraft, such as the Eurofighter Typhoon, JAS-39 Gripen, F/A-18 Hornet, F-15E Strike Eagle, and others, can be carriers for the Taurus missile. The other half of the Taurus missiles have expired certification and may be the ones sent to Ukraine for disposal, with unknown accuracy.
Despite these challenges, the German government's decision to supply the Ukrainian army with long-range Taurus missiles has been made. First deliveries could happen as early as late July, as confirmed by Brigadier General Christian Froiding and Defense Minister of Germany Boris Pistorius. However, the release of new Taurus missiles in Germany is currently in question, as these munitions have not been produced since 2018.
As the situation unfolds, the supply of Taurus missiles to Ukraine raises important questions about the balance of power, the future of Western alliances, and the potential for further escalation in the conflict. The decision by Germany's leadership will undoubtedly have significant implications for both Ukraine and Russia, and for the broader geopolitical landscape.
The decision by Germany's leadership to potentially supply long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine, amidst war-and-conflicts, raises questions about the future of politics and general-news, as it could significantly impact the balance of power, the future of Western alliances, and the potential for further escalation in the conflict. The challenges of acquiring Taurus missiles for Ukraine, including the lack of suitable carriers and the question of whether the German leadership is prepared for possible retaliatory measures from Russia, further contribute to the complexity of this political issue.
