The Truth of the Matter All About the Missiles
Dec 2, 2024
Tom Karako, Director of the Missile Defense Project at CSIS and a leading expert in missile defense, discusses the critical role of missiles in global conflicts. He highlights escalating tensions in Ukraine and Russia's nuclear threats, particularly focusing on the RS-26 missile. The effectiveness of U.S. missile support, like the Precision Strike Missile (PRISM), is examined alongside the strategic dilemmas posed by North Korea and Iran. Karako underscores the need for military readiness and a coherent strategy to navigate these complex geopolitical dynamics.
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Missile Escalation
- Russia's response to the U.S. providing ATACMS to Ukraine involves escalating missile threats.
- Putin's nuclear posturing and ICBM deployments are likely meant to send a message.
RS-26: A Message, Not a Necessity
- The RS-26 missile, used by Russia against Ukraine, has a history in nuclear strategy.
- Its deployment against Ukraine, a target it's overkill for, was a message to NATO.
ATACMS Explained
- The ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) are short-range ballistic missiles crucial for Ukraine's defense.
- The U.S. hesitated to send them initially due to limited production and stockpiles.