U.S. could secretly modify HIMARS for Ukraine by limiting maximum range - launchers do not support ATACMS ballistic missiles

The Wall Street Journal reports that the U.S. has secretly modified the M142 HIMARS supplied to Ukraine to prevent the Armed Forces from striking at the Russian Federation.

Here's What We Know

According to WSJ, hardware and software modifications were made to the HIMARS that limited the maximum launch range. If the American publication is to be believed, the M142 HIMARS artillery systems that are shipped to Ukraine cannot use long-range missiles, including ballistic ATACMS with a launch range of 300 km.

WSJ cites anonymous U.S. officials. They claim that the Pentagon took such a step because the Joe Biden administration believes it will reduce the risk of escalation and a broader war with Russia.

The statement looks strange. First of all, the WSJ cites unknown officials. Secondly, why reinvent the wheel and introduce any restrictions (especially software restrictions) to the missile system if it is possible to simply not give missiles of long range, which is exactly what the US has been doing for the last six months.

Air Force Brigadier General Patrick Ryder said that for security reasons the department does not provide information (publicly) on the configurations of weapons systems transferred to allies and partners. The defense official also noted that the U.S. is committed to providing Ukraine with capabilities to counter Russian aggression. The White House and Ukraine declined to comment.

Source: WSJ

Image: DW