ATACMS reveals vulnerabilities in Russian Air Defence

The Russian Ministry of Defence admitted that ATACMS missiles attacked the airport in Taganrog. As a result of the attack, military personnel were injured, although the Russians claim there were no damages. However, they announced retaliation, suggesting that the damage was significant.

There are two airports in Taganrog: Taganrog-South and Taganrog-Central. Both are strategically important for Russia. Taganrog-South is important due to the production of A-50 aircraft (used for observation and surveillance over long distances from the air). At the same time, Taganrog-Central services a local repair plant and is home to Russian aviation.

The Russian military admitted that its air defence failed to repel the attack. This is the first time Ukraine has used ATACMS missiles against Russian military targets. The attack may have also affected the "ANTK Berieva Airport" and the 325th repair plant, indicating the comprehensive nature of the strike.

The history of the ATACMS missile system, developed in the 1980s, culminated in its official introduction in 1991. This system, operating on a ground-to-ground principle, was created by Americans as a modern alternative to the 1960s MHM-52 Lance, which could hit targets up to 120 kilometres.

ATACMS missiles are nearly 4 metres long, have a diameter of over 0.6 metres, and weigh about 1,680 kilograms. They are distinguished by a powerful warhead weighing 560 kilograms. The system boasts an impressive operational range of up to 300 kilometres, which allows missiles launched from northeastern Ukraine to reach near Moscow.

Due to its range, the MGM-140 is a valuable acquisition that Kyiv has sought in talks with the US government. Thanks to its operational capability, the missiles can not only reach areas occupied by Russian forces in Ukraine but also pose a serious threat to Russia itself. The precision of the system raises significant concerns within the Russian armed forces.