The US Will Send JASSM Missiles To Ukraine To Fight Russia

Ukrainian Military/PHOTO via Instagram @uaf_general_staff

JAKARTA - The United States Government is considering the possibility of sending a Joint Air-to-Surface (JASSM) Long-Range Missile to Ukraine.

The missile can be launched from Ukraine's F-16 fighter and allows Kiev to strike targets from a distance of 370km, increasing Ukraine's military capability to fight Russia, according to news website Politico reported by ANTARA, Saturday, August 17.

According to the site, discussions are currently underway between the White House and the Pentagon to address the complexity of shipments, including ensuring the compatibility of missiles with Ukrainian aircraft.

"Pentagon dan Ukraina telah membahas masalah teknis tersebut," kata media itu.

The shipment will mark another step in Ukraine's growing US support policy, as the missiles are "only distributed to a handful of close allies," the report said.

Politico also reported Ukrainian officials had urged to acquire JASSM, saying the missile was important in countering Russian airstrikes launched from the country.

While there was no official statement regarding the shipment, the media said: "The US and its allies have committed to sending Ukraine various air-to-air and air-to-ground ammunition to the F-16, but the shipment of JASSM will be the most powerful weapons and have the furthest reach for Kiev in its air force arsenal."