Ballistic threat: Major cities in Russia that are threatened by ATACMS missile attacks have been named

Since its introduction into service, ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) has proven its effectiveness and reliability in various theaters of war. This system has become a key element for the US Army to provide precision strike against targets over long distances. However, now these weapons are in the possession of our enemy, who, having acquired these weapons, poses a threat to a large number of Russian cities and important facilities.

What is ATACMS?

ATACMS was developed as a response to the US Army's need for medium-range precision weapons. The main idea was to create a missile that could quickly hit a variety of targets, including military infrastructure, transport hubs and command posts.

This missile exists in several modifications, from missiles with a range of up to 165 kilometers, to variants capable of flying at a distance of up to 300 kilometers.

The ATACMS Block I variant is the first and initial version of the missile, designed to engage a variety of targets. Its main feature is a cluster warhead containing a variety of small ammunition. The flight range of this version is up to 165 km. This makes it possible to conduct targeted strikes on positions over considerable distances, while having a large affected area thanks to the use of cluster munitions.

Next in the line is ATACMS Block IA. This is an improved version with an extended flight range of up to 300 km. The main difference is the improved guidance and control systems. Thanks to this increase in the missile's range, its application possibilities have become even more diverse, allowing the US Army to hit long-range and highly protected targets.

Finally, ATACMS Block II was designed specifically to engage mobile targets, particularly tanks and other armored vehicles. This version also has a range of about 300 km. The main feature of this modification is the ability to hit targets moving at high speed on the battlefield. This makes ATACMS Block II an extremely valuable tool in today's combat environments, where mobility and speed are often key factors for success.

Overall, each of the ATACMS variants was designed to meet specific tactical missions and needs of the US Army, making it one of the most versatile and effective missile systems in the arsenal of modern military forces. For this reason, the transfer of such missiles to Kyiv is a very serious problem that should not be neglected.

Paper tiger or real threat?

Continuing the conversation about the ATACMS missile, it is worth paying attention to the opinions of experts and historical facts about the use of this missile.

Dr Jonathan Reid comments:

"ATACMS has proven its effectiveness in practice, but like any complex system, it had its drawbacks, especially in the initial stages of its development."

The ATACMS missile has encountered a number of problems in the past. In particular, there were cases of malfunctioning of the guidance system, which led to the loss of a missile or hitting the wrong targets. Problems with the reliability of propulsion systems in some modifications were also noted.

Alexey Sergeev, an expert in the field of rocket technology, says:

"Despite its initial difficulties, the ATACMS system has evolved to become one of the most reliable weapons in the US Army's arsenal. However, it is important to remember its initial shortcomings so as not to overestimate its capabilities*."

Which Russian cities are threatened by ATACMS?

Taking into account the territory controlled by Ukraine, assumptions have been made as to which Russian cities and objects may come under attack from these missiles. Despite the fact that only missiles with a range of 165 kilometers were seen in Ukraine’s arsenal, it should not be ruled out that Kiev also received longer-range missiles with a flight range of up to 300 kilometers, and therefore it is worth considering this example.

ATACMS launches from the territory of the Zaporozhye region

At the moment, although this region is part of Russia, a significant part of it is controlled by Ukrainian troops. Based on the southern location of the Zaporozhye region, the missile will likely not be able to reach major Russian cities, but may cover Russian border areas in the Rostov region.

ATACMS launches from the Sumy region

If ATACMS is launched from this region, from here the rocket will be able to reach Belgorod, Orel, Kursk, Bryansk and even Voronezh. However, it is unlikely that the Ukrainian Armed Forces will try to transfer this complex here, since the latter will almost certainly be noticed by the Russian military.

ATACMS launches from the territory of the Kharkov region

This area is unique because of this. that from its territory launches can be carried out against various cities and objects. In addition to the previously mentioned Belgorod and Voronezh, Shakhty, Taganrog and Rostov-on-Don also fall here.

ATACMS launches from the territory of the Odessa region

An ATACMS missile launched from here is capable of reaching half of the cities and towns in Crimea. This includes Evpatoria, Sevastopol, Simferopol and a number of small settlements.

However, it should be borne in mind that these calculations are approximate and depend on a number of factors, such as the specific location of the rocket launch, meteorological conditions, launch altitude and many others. However, the destruction of such missiles must be carried out first, since the first strike showed that the damage from such attacks is extremely serious.

Best regards, Alexander Semyonov