U.S. sale of SM-6 missiles a “major step forward” for Ukraine, expert says

Pavlo Lakiichuk, head of security programs at the Center for Global Studies Strategy XXI, discussed this on Espreso TV.

“Here we are talking about at least two types of missiles, if I understand correctly. One type was specially developed for Ukraine — a very simple design combining a warhead from a bomb with an engine from a cruise missile, effectively turning a bomb into a cruise missile. Even during the Biden administration, there was a special group studying Ukraine’s experience and needs to develop appropriate missiles, not just missiles, but various types of weapons specifically for Ukraine. And now, finally, we’ve reached the point of receiving them; this time we are purchasing them. That’s the innovation. And we’ll see how effective they are. I think it’s a good type of weapon,” he said.

In addition, Pavlo Lakiichuk noted that Ukraine is set to receive SM-6 air defense missiles. He described them as highly advanced and called the transfer of such weapons a significant step forward.

“I didn’t fully understand, but it seems that this also refers to the transfer of SM-6 missiles to Ukraine. SM-6 are very advanced air defense missiles. They are standard in the Aegis system, as you know, used in the United States, primarily designed to destroy ballistic missiles. Of course, they can also intercept cruise missiles and other targets at long range. But if these missiles are supplied, they are far more effective than the PAC-3 Patriots we currently have. They are meant for countering enemy ballistic missiles. If these missiles arrive, though the quantity is unknown, it will be a very significant step forward under any scenario,” he noted.

• Trump’s administration approved selling 3,350 Extended Range Attack Munition (ERAM) missiles to Ukraine for $850 million.