US has modified HIMARS rocket launchers sent to Ukraine to stop them firing ... trends now
The U.S. modified H.I.M.A.R.S. rocket launchers before sending them to Ukraine to prevent them firing long-range missiles into Russia, and widening the war, according to defense officials.
The Highly Mobile Artillery Rocket Systems are self-propelled launchers, equipped with a missile pod that can fire a range of different weapons.
Washington has sent 20 launchers, which have been credited with helping Ukraine push back Russian invaders.
However, they were first modified to be unable to fire Army Tactical Weapons System rockets (A.T.A.C.M.S.), which have a range of 200 miles.
U.S. officials said High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems had been modified to limit their range before being shipped to Ukrainian forces. PICTURED: The Ukrainian army fires a H.I.M.A.R.S. launcher close to the frontline at the northern Kherson region, Ukraine, on 05 November 2022
Air Force Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder, Defense Department spokesman, would not comment on the report because of 'operational security considerations'
Details were reported by the Wall Street Journal, and the Pentagon declined to comment.
'Due to operational security considerations, we do not comment publicly on the configuration of systems provided to allies and partners,' said Air Force Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder, Defense Department spokesman.
'The United States remains committed to providing Ukraine the capabilities it needs to counter Russian aggression.'
The U.S. has so far steered clear of supplying Ukraine with A.T.A.C.M.S., but the modification reportedly means that Kyiv cannot use long-range weapons even if they can source them independently.
The changes reflect Washington's shifting position on arming Ukraine, and internal debates in how far it should
