Imagine a weapon that could dramatically shift the balance of power in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. That's precisely what's at stake as President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky prepare to discuss the potential transfer of Tomahawk missiles during their White House meeting this Friday. But here's where it gets controversial: while these missiles could be a game-changer for Ukraine, their deployment might also escalate tensions with Russia to unprecedented levels.
Why Tomahawk Missiles Matter
Tomahawk missiles are not your average weaponry. Unlike the shorter-range missiles the U.S. has provided Ukraine so far, Tomahawks boast a significantly longer range, faster speed, and greater destructive power. This means Ukraine could strike deep into Russian territory, potentially even reaching Moscow. And this is the part most people miss: the introduction of Tomahawks would not only enhance Ukraine's offensive capabilities but also send a powerful message to Russia about the West's commitment to Ukrainian sovereignty.
Earlier this month, Trump hinted at the possibility of supplying Tomahawks, but with a caveat: "I might have to speak to Russia about it. Do they want to have Tomahawks going in their direction? I don't think so." This statement underscores the delicate diplomatic tightrope the U.S. must walk. While Trump sees the strategic value of Tomahawks, he's also acutely aware of the potential for escalation. "If this war is not gonna get settled, I may send them Tomahawks," he added, framing the move as a last resort.
What Are Tomahawk Missiles?
Tomahawk missiles are subsonic cruise missiles, typically launched from U.S. Navy ships and submarines. Historically, some variants were capable of carrying nuclear warheads, though Ukraine would likely use land-based launchers like the Typhon system introduced by the U.S. Army in 2023. This raises another friction point: providing Tomahawks would require not just the missiles themselves but also the launchers, which could strain U.S. military stockpiles. Pentagon officials are understandably wary of depleting these reserves.
Physically, Tomahawks are imposing weapons, measuring around 5.55 meters (18.2 feet) in length and weighing approximately 1,315 kilograms (2,900 pounds) at launch. Each missile carries a hefty price tag of $1.3 million. Manufactured exclusively by Raytheon (now RTX), Tomahawks have been deployed over 2,350 times by the U.S. and its allies in combat operations.
A Brief History of Tomahawks
The U.S. Navy began developing sea-launched cruise missiles in the 1970s, designing them to fly at subsonic speeds and low altitudes to evade radar detection. Over the decades, Tomahawks have undergone several upgrades, from the Block II variant used in the 1980s to the Block IV introduced in the early 2000s. However, it remains unclear which generation of missiles Ukraine might receive. Ukrainian officials worry that older models could be more vulnerable to Russian air defenses.
Who Has Tomahawks?
Tomahawk missiles are not widely proliferated. The U.S. and the U.K. are the primary operators, though Japan recently agreed to purchase up to 400 Tomahawks for $2.35 billion as part of its military modernization efforts. Australia and the Netherlands have also acquired these missiles. Their deployment is typically reserved for high-stakes scenarios where long-range precision strikes are necessary.
When Does the U.S. Use Tomahawks?
The U.S. has employed Tomahawks in several key conflicts. In 2017, Trump ordered the launch of 50 to 60 Tomahawks against a Syrian airfield. More recently, the U.S. and U.K. used them to strike Houthi rebel sites in Yemen in 2024. Just last June, dozens of Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles (TLAMs) were deployed in Operation Midnight Hammer, targeting Iranian nuclear facilities.
Range and Capabilities
Tomahawks can travel between 1,250 and 2,500 kilometers (777 to 1,552 miles), though some critics argue that the upper limit is an exception rather than the norm. Even at the lower end, this range would put Moscow within striking distance from Ukraine's border. For context, this is roughly equivalent to the distance from New York City to Charleston, South Carolina, or from Boston to Oklahoma City.
Tomahawks vs. Other Missiles
Compared to other missiles in Ukraine's arsenal, Tomahawks are in a league of their own. The U.S.-supplied Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) has a range of just 300 kilometers (190 miles), while Extended Range Attack Munition (ERAM) missiles max out at 450 kilometers (280 miles). Even the British Storm Shadow and French Scalp cruise missiles fall short, with a range of only 155 miles. Ukraine's domestically developed Palianytsia and Flamingo missiles, while impressive, lack the proven track record of the Tomahawk.
The Bigger Question
As Trump and Zelensky prepare to discuss this potentially game-changing weapon, the world watches with bated breath. Here's the controversial part: would supplying Tomahawks to Ukraine be a justified move to level the playing field, or would it risk escalating the conflict into a full-blown regional—or even global—crisis? What do you think? Is the potential strategic gain worth the risk of further destabilizing an already volatile situation? Let us know in the comments below.
