Ukraine has recently made a significant military acquisition, securing 70 M39 ATACMS ballistic missiles from Türkiye, along with 12 M270 multiple-launch rocket systems (MLRS) capable of firing both GMLRS and ATACMS missiles. Additionally, the deal includes tens of thousands of cluster munitions. This procurement marks a crucial step in enhancing Ukraine’s military capabilities as it continues to contend with the ongoing invasion.
Details of the Acquisition
According to sources, the delivery of these missiles and systems is anticipated to begin immediately after the legally required 15-day congressional review period concludes. The U.S. State Department submitted all pertinent documentation to Congress on August 3, 2026, which triggers this review. The law necessitates congressional notification if the initial cost of defense equipment exceeds $14 million or the total value of other defense goods surpasses $50 million. Importantly, Congress does not need to vote separately to approve this transfer. If no joint resolution to block it is adopted within the 15-day timeframe, the transfer will automatically take place.
The congressional notification encompassed the details of the military package, including the provision of 12 M270 MLRS launchers and 70 M39 ATACMS missiles, alongside 2,524 unguided 227 mm M26 rockets equipped with DPICM cluster warheads and 47,000 M509A1 203 mm cluster artillery shells. All transfers will be handled by authorized defense and logistics companies from Türkiye, Bulgaria, and the United States.
Strategic Implications
The U.S. State Department has indicated that this military transfer aligns with its security assistance objectives, aimed at enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities. Türkiye is seeking to reduce its arsenals of outdated weapons and redirect financial resources towards modernization efforts, while Ukraine aims to bolster its offensive and defensive capabilities in response to the ongoing conflict with Russia. This acquisition signifies a strategic partnership aimed at fortifying Ukraine’s military strength.
The M39 ATACMS is notable for being the first production variant of the ATACMS missile series, featuring a maximum range of approximately 165 km. Although it comes with an autonomous inertial guidance system utilizing laser gyroscopes, it lacks GPS-based correction, which may affect pinpoint accuracy. Nevertheless, the missile is equipped with a formidable 560 kg cluster warhead, capable of delivering 950 M74 fragmentation submunitions that target personnel and unarmored vehicles effectively.
Technical Specifications of the M39 ATACMS
The M74 submunitions, which measure 75 mm in diameter and weigh around 500 grams, can create approximately 260 lethal fragments upon detonation, generating a damaging area of up to 15 square meters. This feature compensates for the missile’s lower accuracy by ensuring significant destructive capability over a wide area. Thus, the M39 ATACMS serves as a potent asset for Ukraine, providing vital firepower in the ongoing conflict.
Prior to this acquisition, on July 28, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with representatives from Lockheed Martin in the United States, the company responsible for manufacturing not only ATACMS but also other critical military equipment, including HIMARS, F-16 fighter jets, and missiles for Patriot defense systems. This underscores Ukraine’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities through strategic partnerships with key defense manufacturers.
In summary, the acquisition of 70 ATACMS ballistic missiles and accompanying military equipment represents a substantial step in Ukraine’s efforts to strengthen its defenses amidst ongoing hostilities. The collaboration with Türkiye and the United States showcases an emerging alliance focused on bolstering Ukraine’s military readiness in the face of persistent threats.