Discussions are underway about bolstering Ukraine’s military strength in its ongoing conflict with Russia. Interestingly, Russia refers to this as a “special military operation” that has been ongoing since February 2022. It’s a matter worth your attention.

According to a recent Politico report that cites reliable US sources, the US administration is contemplating delivering the APAM missile [M39 ATACMS] to Ukraine as part of a new aid package. For your information, APAM is a former version of the notorious ATACMS missile [M57 ATACMS]. As two informed US insiders disclose, there are ongoing discussions in the White House regarding a substantial military aid package for Ukraine. This package, valued at 300 million USD, is proposed to include the APAM missile.

The APAM [Anti-Personnel Anti-Material M39 APAM] and ATACMS [Army Tactical Missile System M57 ATACMS] are two distinct types of missiles, each equipped with specific purpose and capabilities. The APAM is mainly utilized against personnel and material targets, whereas the ATACMS is a surface-to-surface missile proposed for long-range strikes.

The differences
Generally, the APAM missile is compact and lightweight, designed for precision strikes against enemy personnel and machinery. This is often used in circumstances where reducing collateral damage is of utmost importance. The APAM can be dispatched from a range of platforms, including ground vehicles and aircraft.

In contrast, the ATACMS is significantly larger and heavier, capable of transporting a considerable payload over expansive distances. It is intended for strategic strikes on high-value targets like enemy infrastructure or large troop concentrations. The ATACMS is typically launched from a specialized missile launcher.

Another key distinction lies in their guidance systems. APAM missiles often use laser guidance or other forms of precision targeting to hit specific targets. However, ATACMS utilizes GPS or INS [Inertial Navigation System] for guidance, enabling it to target accurately even at extreme ranges.

In terms of range, the ATACMS notably outclasses the APAM. The ATACMS can target up to 300 kilometers away, while the APAM’s range is typically much shorter, around 160 kilometers. This makes the ATACMS apt for strategic strikes, while the APAM is better suited for tactical engagements.

Lastly, the type of warhead each missile carries also differs. The APAM usually carries a blast-fragmentation warhead, designed to wreak maximum havoc on personnel and light vehicles. On the contrary, the ATACMS is capable of bearing a variety of warheads, including unitary, cluster, and even chemical or nuclear payloads, depending on the specific variant of the missile.

Congress stalls Biden’s request
Contrary to the information available from various sources, Ukraine does not possess M57 ATACMS missiles. Last year, a clandestine shipment of APAM missiles was sent to Ukraine from the US. A similar aid package is now being prepared for departure. Just like the initial shipment, this one may also not be officially recorded as military aid weaponry and ammunition transported to Ukraine.

In the meantime, President Biden’s proposed additional request, which includes extra funding for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as well as support for Israel and Taiwan, is being delayed in Congress. December’s fiscal deficits have put a hold on the Pentagon’s ability to send further weaponry to Kyiv. Military personnel on the battlefields are running low on ammunition and air defenses, all while legislators are discussing the bill in question.

APAM is a part of the broader category of smart weapons, which utilize advanced technology to enhance their accuracy and minimize collateral damage. The propulsion system of an APAM missile typically features a solid rocket motor. This type of propulsion system is selected for its reliability, simplicity, and ability to yield a high amount of thrust.

Solid rocket motors are composed of a casing loaded with a solid composite propellant, an igniter to initiate the combustion process, and a nozzle to channel the exhaust gases. The operation of an APAM missile undergoes several stages. The first stage is the launch, whereby the solid rocket motor is ignited, supplying the thrust required to project the missile into the air. Once the missile is airborne, the guidance system takes over. This system relies on onboard sensors and computers to trace the target and adjust the missile’s trajectory as necessary.

The guidance system of an APAM missile generally relies on a combination of GPS and inertial navigation systems. The GPS offers precise location data, while the inertial navigation system monitors the missile’s speed and direction. Together, these systems enable the missile to accurately strike its target, even if the target is in motion.

Upon reaching the target, the warhead of the APAM missile detonates. The type of warhead used can fluctuate depending on the mission, but it typically contains explosives engineered to annihilate the target upon impact. The precision of the APAM missile moderates the risk of collateral damage.