Ukraine Offers Long-Range Drones and Missiles to NATO to Fill Strategic Gaps
Kyiv proposes supplying NATO with advanced long-range UAVs and missiles to enhance deep strike capabilities against adversaries.
Ukraine has announced its readiness to supply NATO with long-range drones and missiles, aiming to close existing gaps in the alliance's strike capabilities. Alena Hetmanchuk, Ukraine’s ambassador to NATO, revealed in a recent interview that Kyiv can provide expertise and weaponry that would bolster NATO’s capacity to deliver precise strikes deep into enemy territory.
Strengthening NATO’s Deep Strike Potential
"If NATO members such as Germany make such a request in the future, we can offer our experience and effective weapons: long-range drones and missiles," Hetmanchuk stated. She emphasized Ukraine’s unique knowledge not only in drone defense but also in executing pinpoint offensive operations.
"We have expert knowledge and unique solutions not only in drone defense but in delivering precise strikes as well," emphasized Hetmanchuk.
This offer comes amid growing concerns within NATO after the United States’ recent cancellation of agreements to station American Tomahawk cruise missiles and ballistic missiles in Germany. These weapons were considered vital for countering Russian strategic assets such as command centers, power plants, and ammunition depots.
Without these American missiles, NATO is deprived of a key element to counter Russia’s 9M729 cruise missiles (known in NATO jargon as SSC-8), which can carry nuclear warheads, as well as the "Iskander" missile systems. The shift has intensified NATO’s search for alternative long-range strike options.
Germany and Ukraine Bolster Defense Collaboration
On May 11, Germany’s Defense Minister Boris Pistorius visited Kyiv, underscoring the deepening ties between the two countries’ defense sectors. Pistorius announced plans to expand bilateral cooperation focused primarily on jointly developing modern UAV systems capable of long-range deep strikes.
"This will strengthen the security of both our countries," Pistorius said, highlighting the strategic importance of developing drones and missile systems that can operate at various ranges.
According to reports, Germany is also exploring the possibility of establishing a joint American-German enterprise to produce Tomahawk cruise missiles domestically by 2028. The move would aim to restore NATO’s long-range strike capabilities in Europe.
Ukraine’s proposition to NATO arrives at a critical juncture, offering a potential infusion of new technology and operational experience to an alliance seeking to adapt to evolving threats in the region. By integrating Ukrainian long-range drone and missile technology, NATO may enhance its deterrence and response options on its eastern flank.
