Ukraine Slows Use of ATACMS Missiles as Stockpiles Dwindle

Ukraine has reportedly reduced its use of U.S.-supplied ATACMS and British Storm Shadow missiles in strikes on Russian territory, citing dwindling supplies and political uncertainties.

American officials have disclosed that Ukraine had only "a few dozen" ATACMS missiles at the time of U.S. President Joe Biden's mid-November approval for their use against Russian targets.

According to The New York Times, the limited missile stock—estimated at around 50—could not be replenished due to U.S. allocations for the Middle East and Asia. British officials similarly acknowledged shortages of Storm Shadow missiles, which had also been greenlit for Ukrainian strikes inside Russia.

While NATO officials, including Adm. Rob Bauer, reported that ATACMS strikes had disrupted Russian logistics and forced the relocation of key military facilities, the weapons have not significantly altered the conflict's trajectory. Bauer noted that the missiles had effectively targeted weapons depots and command centers but stressed their limited quantity required judicious use.

“They don’t like the ATACMS coming in their own country, through the air — they don’t, because they are effective,” Admiral Bauer said in an interview in early December. “That limits their ability to fight effectively at the front, and that’s what you want…. The question is, then, is it enough to win?”

Ukrainian military analysts have echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need to conserve missiles for high-value targets. Following initial operations, Ukraine shifted its focus to selective strikes, such as the November 20 attack on a Russian command bunker near Kursk, which reportedly inflicted significant damage.

Russia retaliated with the Oreshnik hypersonic missile, warning Europe of potential consequences. Although Moscow has avoided escalating directly, it is preparing for potential cyber or sabotage operations in Europe.

On December 11, Ukraine attacked a Russian airfield in Taganrog with six ATACMS. In response, Russia launched 93 missiles and 200 drones at Ukraine's energy sector. A week later, Ukraine targeted a chemical plant in Rostov with six ATACMS and four Storm Shadows. Russia retaliated two days later with a missile barrage on Kyiv.

Western officials have criticized Ukraine for relying heavily on external aid and failing to strengthen its own military, particularly in troop mobilization. The U.S. had long resisted providing long-range ATACMS missiles, fearing escalation with nuclear-armed Russia. However, in spring 2023, President Biden approved the shipment of up to 500 missiles, which Ukraine used in eastern territories and Crimea against Russian command posts and weapon storage. While effective, U.S. and NATO officials noted that Ukraine could have been more selective in missile use.

In November, Biden permitted strikes on Russian territory, justified by Russia's involvement of North Korean soldiers. Ukraine had only about 50 ATACMS left, with no prospects for more as U.S. stockpiles were committed elsewhere. Britain also allowed the use of its Storm Shadow missiles but has limited supplies. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump criticized Biden's decision, which aligned with Moscow's stance.

Following approval from the United States and Britain, Ukraine has conducted at least six missile strikes, firing a total of 31 ATACMS and 14 Storm Shadow missiles, according to reports from the Russian Defense Ministry and Russian military bloggers.