NATO in line of fire as Ukraine reportedly given nod to use Storm Shadow missiles

The weapon that wreaked havoc in conflict zones of Iraq and Libya will now be wielded by Ukraine to target military sites and key infrastructure deep inside Russia. The Guardian reported last week thatthe United Kingdomhas permitted Ukraine to use 'Storm Shadow'cruise missiles against Russia in private,markinga serious escalation in the ongoing war andstirring concerns that NATO could be drawn into the battlefield.

This could also provoke fierce retaliation from Moscow, with Russian President Vladimir Putin already warning the West that the move would alter the nature and scope of the conflict. Russia could also expedite a potential revision of its nuclear doctrine.

More about Storm Shadow missile

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The missile was jointly developed by the UK and France. It’s an air-launched weapon with a strike range of more than 500 kms. It’s a formidable asset, given its low-observable technology.

The missile can evade the enemy’s defences and give a crushing blow to targets far away from the frontlines.

Watch:Russia-Ukraine War: 'Ukraine launched 3 drones towards North Murmansk', says Russia

The weapon has been in service since 1994 but still remains a key asset in modern warfare.

Consequences

The move, which is yet to be confirmed by the UK officially,has signalled NATO’s intention to push the war well beyond the frontlines. However, it could also prompt severe retaliation from Russia.

Some hawks inside the Russian military have long been calling on the government to reform the country’s nuclear doctrine. The current 2020 document provides for a nuclear retaliation only in the case of a conventional attack that threatens the state’s survival.

Now, Russia may revise this document to broaden the definition of ‘extreme threats,’ widening the scope of the provision.

Putin on Thursday (Sep 12) warned that the move to allow Ukraine to use long-range strike weapons would “drag the countries supplying Kyiv with the missiles directly into the war.”

"If this decision is taken, it will mean nothing less than the direct involvement of NATO countries, the United States and European countries in the war in Ukraine," Putin said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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