Politico: USA may strengthen the Ukrainian Air Force with long-range JASSM missiles.

The Biden administration is considering transferring long-range JASSM missiles to Ukraine

The Biden administration is considering the possibility of transferring long-range JASSM (Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile) cruise missiles to Ukraine. This decision is aimed at enhancing the combat capabilities of Ukrainian F-16 aircraft in response to threats from Russia.

According to Politico, the final decision has not yet been made, but work is underway on the technical details. Issues of transferring sensitive technologies and ensuring the ability of F-16 fighters to launch these missiles, which have a 1000-pound warhead, are being discussed.

Pentagon spokesman Jeff Jurgensen declined to comment on the question of approving the transfer of missiles. He noted that the Pentagon is considering various options to ensure Ukraine's security, but there is no specific information so far.

These JASSM missiles were previously considered prohibited for transfer to Ukraine. Over the course of the 30-month conflict, Ukraine has received approval for the transfer of F-16 aircraft, Abrams tanks, cruise missiles, Patriot air defense systems, and modern infantry fighting vehicles. This significantly increased the combat capabilities of the Ukrainian army and made it one of the strongest in Europe.

Strengthening the capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force

With the transfer of JASSM cruise missiles, the Ukrainian Air Force will be able to launch them with a large radius of action - over 200 miles. This will allow the use of these missiles from F-16 fighters manufactured in the USA.

Currently, Ukraine already has air and ground-based missiles provided by the USA, the United Kingdom, and France, with a range of approximately 200 miles. But there are restrictions on their use within the territory of Russia.