US Considers Sending AGM-154 Glide Weapons to Ukraine’s F-16s

The United States is considering sending the AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW), a medium-range glide missile, to Ukraine as part of a new $375 million military aid package. This move, reported by Politico and expected to be confirmed soon by US officials, could prove vital to Ukraine's defense strategy. The inclusion of these advanced munitions in Ukraine’s arsenal signals a significant boost to the country’s capabilities as it continues to fend off Russian advances, particularly in the contested eastern regions.

The AGM-154, often referred to as a “glide bomb,” is a precision-guided weapon with a range of over 70 miles (112 kilometers). Designed to be launched from fighter jets like the F-16, it allows pilots to strike enemy targets from a distance, reducing the risk of being hit by enemy air defenses. For Ukraine’s F-16s, this weapon would enable them to hit Russian troop formations, armor, and strategic positions deep behind enemy lines without having to enter the most heavily defended areas.

This new military aid package, which is expected to include air defense missiles, rockets, and artillery, would mark one of the largest shipments of military equipment to Ukraine since May. However, the AGM-154 stands out due to its tactical importance in Kyiv's aerial campaign. With the war in Ukraine increasingly characterized by artillery and long-range missile exchanges, giving Ukraine the ability to strike from further away could shift the balance in some critical battles.

The AGM-154 comes in various configurations, capable of carrying different types of payloads. One version, the AGM-154A, can disperse submunitions over a wide area, making it effective against enemy ground forces. Another variant, the AGM-154C, has a unitary warhead designed to penetrate fortified targets. These glide weapons use GPS guidance to ensure high accuracy, even in challenging environments. For Ukraine, which is battling a well-entrenched Russian military, the AGM-154’s precision and versatility could prove invaluable.

The timing of this military support is also significant. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is currently in the US, presenting his "Victory Plan" to American leadership, including President Joe Biden and presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. With US presidential elections looming in November, this aid package might be one of the last large-scale military shipments to Ukraine before the political landscape in Washington changes.

The introduction of the AGM-154 would not only provide a tactical edge but also symbolize a deepening commitment from the US to support Ukraine as the war grinds on. If delivered, these weapons will likely play a crucial role in Ukraine’s efforts to regain lost ground and repel future Russian offensives.