US Department of Defense "Considering Providing Boeing Missiles to Ukraine"

If Realized, Possible to Strike Russian Mainland

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunji Kwon] Major foreign media reported that the United States is considering providing Ukraine with missiles developed by American aircraft manufacturer Boeing, with a range of 150 km.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February this year, the United States and its allies, who have been supplying weapons to Ukraine, are now in a situation where they need to provide additional arms soon. Foreign media reported that the U.S. Department of Defense has prepared "around six options," including the introduction of the Boeing-developed "Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bomb" (GLSDB) system in preparation for this. The GLSDB can be guided via GPS and has the capability to resist communication jamming. Although development has already been completed, many procedures remain before it can be officially procured, so it is expected to take a considerable amount of time.

If the supply materializes, Ukraine is expected to have the capability to strike Russian mainland as early as 2023. The U.S. has so far refused Ukraine's request to provide ATACMS missiles with a range of 297 km, fearing the possibility of escalation.

U.S. Department of Defense spokesperson Navy Lieutenant Commander Tim Gorman refrained from specific comments but stated regarding support for Ukraine, "We will identify and consider the most appropriate systems." A Boeing spokesperson remained tight-lipped.

The United States and its allies have been continuously announcing support measures focusing on strengthening Ukraine's air defense capabilities as Russia recently increased the intensity of airstrikes on Ukraine. On the 23rd, they also announced a military aid plan worth 400 million dollars (540 billion won).