As the conflict in Ukraine continues to evolve, a critical component of the nation’s defense capabilities has been its anti-tank arsenal. At the forefront of this is the U.S.’s considerable military aid, which has seen over $21 billion in security assistance flow into Ukraine by the end of November 2022. This support has included a diverse array of equipment, such as 38 HIMARS missile systems, 8,500 Javelin anti-tank missiles, 145 heavy howitzers, and 1,800 Phoenix Ghost loitering munitions.
The FGM-148 Javelin, with its top-attack mode and fire-and-forget technology, has been particularly effective in Ukraine’s struggle against Russian armored forces. It boasts a remarkable kill rate, inflicting substantial losses on the adversary’s armor. However, the cost of this state-of-the-art weaponry is steep. According to the U.S. Army’s 2023 budget for missile procurement, a single Javelin missile is valued at $197,884, with the launcher priced separately at $241,803.
In the face of such expenses and a prolonged engagement, Ukraine and its allies are compelled to consider more cost-effective options. Alternatives with varied capabilities and costs have come into focus, potentially allowing Ukraine to diversify its defense without compromising effectiveness. The UK has provided the Next-generation Light Anti-tank Weapon (NLAW) at approximately $33,000 per unit, but with a shorter range and less potent warhead than the Javelin. The U.S. has also sent 1,500 BGM-71 TOW anti-tank missiles, which are similar to Ukraine’s own Stugna-P but have a higher unit cost at $79,000.
Ukraine’s indigenous Stugna-P missile, with a 5,000-meter range and a $20,000 price tag per shot, serves as a sustainable middle ground between the high-tech Javelin and more affordable but limited alternatives. While the Stugna-P requires the operator to maintain a line of sight with the target, its cost, likened to a “Kia Rio rather than Ferrari,” has made it a high priority for Ukraine’s ongoing military production.
Additionally, simple anti-tank options like the Saab AT4 and the RPG-7 have been utilized. The AT4, sent by the U.S. and Sweden, costs just $5,435 per shot and is effective against light vehicles within a 300-meter range. The RPG-7, with modern ammunition capable of striking targets at 300 meters and costing mere hundreds per rocket, is another highly affordable choice for Ukraine’s forces.
The complexities of warfare necessitate a broad spectrum of capabilities, from high-cost precision missiles like the Javelin to more affordable bulk options such as the RPG-7. As military expenditures are increasingly scrutinized, Ukraine’s strategy leans towards maximizing capability while minimizing cost.
Relevant articles:
– Ukraine’s Homemade Anti-Tank Missiles Have Been Blasting More And More Rebel Vehicles, Forbes
– With Cost Of Ukraine Support Mounting, Here Are Alternatives To Ferrari-Priced Javelin Missiles, Forbes, Dec 19, 2022
– How cheap drones are transforming warfare in Ukraine, The Economist, Feb 5, 2024