Austrian Expert Advocates Ballistic Missile Production for Ukraine

Gustav Gressel, a lecturer at the Austrian National Defense Academy, emphasized in an interview with Ukrinform the necessity for Europe to support Ukraine's development of ballistic missile production capabilities. He asserts that such advancements would significantly enhance Ukraine's military capacity to strike deep into Russia. Gressel pointed out that these capabilities would also be beneficial for European defense post-war, serving as a deterrent against potential aggressions. The potential for Ukraine to produce its own ballistic missiles could provide it with much-needed reliable ammunition, especially for precise strikes. Gressel noted that ballistic missiles have a higher probability of penetrating Russian air defense systems. He called for immediate collaboration between European nations and Ukraine to address what he described as a serious shortage of such capabilities across Europe. Currently, Europe is limited in its ballistic missile production, with Turkey being an exception for short-range missiles. The UK has only recently initiated a project related to this technology. Gressel argues that Europe should work alongside Ukraine to close this gap, not only for present military needs but also for future deterrent capabilities against systems like Russia's Iskander missiles. Gressel also discussed Ukraine's existing Flamingo cruise missiles, which have both strengths and weaknesses. While their long range and powerful warheads are advantageous, their large size renders them more vulnerable to interception by air defenses. Gressel expressed concerns regarding the accuracy of these missiles, citing limited photographic evidence of successful hits on intended targets. He highlighted the political implications of targeting choices, suggesting that Ukraine deliberately avoids hitting civilian areas to counter Russian narratives. Improving the accuracy of the Flamingo missiles is crucial, according to Gressel, particularly since important military research and defense facilities are often situated in urban areas. The call for enhanced European support in missile production is part of a broader dialogue on strengthening Ukraine's defensive capabilities in light of ongoing conflict dynamics in the region. Gressel's insights point to the strategic importance of developing a domestic military-industrial complex in Ukraine to secure both immediate and long-term defense needs.