In a move that could bolster Ukraine's military capabilities in its ongoing conflict with Russia, the Biden administration has expressed openness to provide long-range cruise missiles to Ukraine. The proposed transfer of Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) to Ukraine's F-16s aims to enhance their combat prowess and further support Ukraine's successful ground assault deep inside Russian territory.

While no final decision has been made, a Biden administration official stated that discussions are underway to address the complex details of the potential missile transfer. These details include evaluating the transfer of sensitive technologies and ensuring that Ukraine's aircraft can effectively launch the 2,400-pound missile carrying a 1,000-pound warhead. The Pentagon declined to comment on whether it has approved the missile transfer, only stating that it considers a range of options to meet Ukraine's security assistance requirements.

The possible transfer of JASSM to Ukraine marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict, as sophisticated weaponry previously deemed off-limits for transfer to Ukraine are now being considered. Some critics have accused the Biden administration of moving too slowly in providing essential equipment to Ukraine, but over the past 30 months, approvals for F-16s, Abrams tanks, cruise missiles, Patriot air defenses, and modern infantry carriers have transformed Ukraine's military into a formidable force in Europe.

The timing of this potential transfer is crucial, as it occurs in the final months of President Joe Biden's tenure. The level of U.S. support for Ukraine beyond Biden's presidency remains uncertain if former President Donald Trump were to return to the White House. The provision of air-launched missiles to Ukraine would grant the Ukrainian air force a capability possessed by only a few other nations – launching a cruise missile over 200 miles from American-made fourth-generation fighter planes.

While discussions continue within the White House and Pentagon, an administration official highlighted the need for extensive preparations before any missiles can be delivered to Ukraine. This includes ensuring that Ukraine's existing Soviet-era planes, as well as its newly acquired F-16s, can effectively launch the missiles at targets over 230 miles away. The Pentagon is already working with Ukraine to address technical issues related to the missile transfer.

The JASSM, developed by Lockheed Martin and fielded in the early 2000s, has been sparingly used in combat by the U.S. and has only been shared with a select group of close allies. Ukraine already possesses both air and ground-launched missiles provided by the U.S., U.K., and France, but current restrictions prevent their use inside Russian territory. Frustrated with these limitations, Kyiv has repeatedly requested more leeway to strike Russian forces within their borders, especially after Russia targeted Ukrainian cities with glide bombs.

The Ukrainian government, including parliamentarians and advisers to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has been actively advocating for the transfer of JASSM. Their request received attention from national security adviser Jake Sullivan. Notably, several other nations, including Poland, Australia, Finland, Japan, the Netherlands, Germany, Greece, Romania, and Denmark, have either acquired or are in discussions to purchase the missile.

The potential transfer of JASSM missiles to Ukraine would significantly enhance its strategic reach, addressing concerns about F-16s being exposed to enemy fire. While the U.S. and its allies have already committed to sending various munitions for Ukraine's F-16s, the inclusion of JASSM would provide the longest-range and most powerful weapon in Ukraine's air force arsenal.

U.S. lawmakers supporting Ukraine's cause have called for an easing of restrictions on Ukraine's ability to engage Russian targets. These lawmakers argue that after Ukrainian forces breached the Russian border on August 6, sustained support from the U.S. is crucial. The Pentagon, taking into consideration Russia's success in jamming American-made precision-guided weapons, has been receptive to Congress' suggestion of supplying JASSM missiles to Ukraine.

General C.Q. Brown, Chair of the Joint Chiefs, did not dismiss the idea of missile transfers when questioned by Congressman Joe Wilson during a hearing in April. The specifics of arming the F-16s would be discussed with Ukraine Defense Contact Group allies, according to Gen. Brown. The conversations aim to ensure that not only the aircraft but also the pilots, maintainers, and necessary weaponry are provided to maximize Ukraine's capabilities.

As discussions unfold and preparations intensify, the potential transfer of long-range cruise missiles to Ukraine signals a significant shift in the dynamics of the conflict. It could provide Ukraine with an unprecedented advantage and capability in deterring Russian aggression and defending its interests.