Approximately 50 defense leaders from around the world informed reporters following a virtual meeting recently that they would be shipping more advanced weapons to Ukraine. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin noted that Denmark plans to dispatch the Harpoon anti-ship missiles to help Ukraine regain control of its Black Sea Coast.

Does Ukraine Have Harpoon Anti-Ship Missiles?

Ukraine wields the RK-360MC Neptun, which is an anti-ship missile system. The RK-360MC Neptun is in short supply, according to Austin. That's why defense leaders are looking for ways to replenish Ukraine's ordnance. One of the ways they plan to do this is by shipping a Harpoon launcher and missiles. Luckily, Denmark has announced they will be sending this advanced weapon to Ukraine for their coastal defense system. It’s currently unclear exactly which Harpoon it will be, but there’s a good chance that they’ll send the RGM-84 Harpoon missile.

What Are Harpoon Anti-Ship Missiles?

The Harpoon anti-ship missile is one of the most common weapons used in the West. It initially launched in 1975 under manufacturer McDonnell Douglas, but it is now produced by Boeing. The Harpoon has a total mass of around 1,523 pounds, a diameter of 34.3 centimeters, and a length of about 12 feet. It can travel at speeds up to 536 mph, can work in all weather conditions, and is a subsonic over-the-horizon anti-ship missile system. Additional features include its low-level, sea-skimming cruise trajectory and radar guidance system. Its cruise trajectory travels right above the water and allows the missile to avoid defenses. Its warhead has a highly explosive fragmentation. Since its inception, the U.S. has created several variants of the anti-ship ballistic missile, which is capable of being launched from multiple surface ships. Such surface ships include submarines and naval aircraft, such as the P-30 Orion and F/A-18A-F.

What Is the Range of Harpoon Anti-Ship Missiles?

Ukraine has thus far proven dominance over Russia through its use of short-range weapons such as the Javelin anti-tank artillery. But now, Ukraine requires long-range rockets, and the Harpoon certainly delivers. The Harpoon anti-ship missile can target ranges of around 149 miles out, which is the equivalent of about 240 kilometers. There currently aren’t many better options for Ukraine’s long-range support than the Harpoon.

Is the Harpoon Anti-Ship Missile Obsolete?

The Harpoon continues to be updated, and its latest version consists of the Harpoon Block II+, with which tests are still being conducted. While the Harpoon is not obsolete, further advancements in anti-ship missiles, such as the Naval Strike Missile (NSM), have been developed. The Navy has officially set the NSM to replace the Harpoon because of weight differences and guidance systems. The NSM relies on a highly advanced high-resolution infrared seeker, which allows the missile to strike specific areas of a ship. On the other hand, the Harpoon relies on an inertial navigation system. Each anti-ship missile has its pros and cons. The Harpoon has a larger warhead and creates more damage. On the contrary, the NSM is significantly lighter and has a more advanced navigation system. Considering there will be further advancements to the Harpoon, it is safe to say this weapon is not obsolete. Defense leaders worldwide are committed to providing aid to Ukraine to gain control over the Black Sea Coast. There is no doubt the Harpoon anti-ship missiles will provide a powerful offensive position for Ukraine's coastal defense system. Ukraine has a short supply of their RK-360MC Neptun, but the Harpoon will give Ukraine the perfect long-range rocket, thanks to Denmark. The Harpoon’s long-range capabilities will allow Ukraine to target Russian ships from a distance of around 149 miles. With this advanced weapon system, Ukraine may well be able to regain control of the Black Sea Coast and fight off opposing Russian ships. Related read:Ukraine and Russia WWI Treaty Casts Large Shadow Amid Current Crisis