Overview of 'Storm Shadow' Missiles Ukraine Might Use Against Russia

Post by : Zayd Kamal

photo: AFP

New Delhi: Ukraine is preparing to alter its military strategy by employing long-range cruise missiles to strike deep within Russian territory. Previously, Ukraine had limited its missile use to its own land, where Russian forces have invaded. Recent reports indicate that the United Kingdom, a prominent NATO member, has authorized Ukraine to use the Storm Shadow cruise missile against Russian targets. This development could push Moscow’s boundaries in the ongoing conflict.

In response to this potential shift in Ukraine’s tactics, which is supported by NATO allies, Russia has stated that it may need to revise its nuclear doctrine. This announcement comes amid rising tensions and increased military activity, with Russia amplifying its missile attacks and Ukraine enhancing its drone strikes.

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While there have been restrictions on using advanced Western weaponry against targets within Russian territory, the UK's reported clearance for Ukraine to use Storm Shadow missiles may signal a change in this policy. Currently, Ukraine possesses Storm Shadow missiles but uses them solely within its territory to confront Russian military forces.

The Storm Shadow is a long-range, low-observable air-launched cruise missile, developed collaboratively by the United Kingdom and France. It has a range of about 500 kilometers and is integrated into Ukrainian Su-24 bombers, which are a legacy from Ukraine’s time as part of the Soviet Union. Initially developed in 1994 by Matra and British Aerospace, the missile is now manufactured by MBDA Systems. Known as the SCALP-EG in France, the Storm Shadow’s range exceeds the 300-kilometer limit set by the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), which also restricts missiles with payloads over 500 kilograms. Although the missile's warhead is below this weight limit, its extended range surpasses the MTCR's guidelines. The MTCR, however, is an informal political agreement and not legally binding.

If Ukraine receives approval to deploy these missiles against Russian targets, it could provoke a severe response from Moscow. There is significant concern that Russia might consider deploying nuclear weapons in retaliation. The Kremlin has attributed its need to revise its nuclear policy to the increasing involvement of Western nations in the conflict. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that adjustments to Russia's nuclear doctrine are necessary due to the escalating threats from the West. Under the current doctrine, established by President Vladimir Putin four years ago, Russia may resort to nuclear weapons if it faces a nuclear attack or if a conventional attack threatens the state's existence. An update to this doctrine is now being considered in light of the ongoing conflict and the involvement of Western countries.

In parallel, India is seeking to mediate peace between Russia and Ukraine. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval is in Moscow for a summit of national security advisors and has met with President Vladimir Putin. Doval is reportedly carrying a peace proposal from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi had visited both Russia and Ukraine earlier this year and is seen as one of the few global leaders with strong relationships with both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. It remains uncertain whether Russia will accept the proposed peace plan, but India’s efforts reflect its position as a nation with significant diplomatic ties to both sides of the conflict.