The U.S. Army’s stockpiles of ATACMS missiles, some of which were slated for delivery to Ukraine, have raised concerns due to their expiration dates, with some having lapsed as early as 2015, according to Pentagon budget records. These missiles require significant modification to extend their operational life, with the U.S. Army allocating over a million dollars to refurbish them. The necessity of this modernization has sparked debate about the viability of sending these aging systems to Ukraine.
The Biden administration’s decision to authorize Ukraine to use ATACMS to strike Russian territory, leveraging their 300-kilometer range, was perceived by some analysts as a potential escalation of the conflict, particularly as political dynamics in the U.S. shift with the prospect of a Trump return to office. However, analysis of the U.S. Army’s budget documents reveals that the aging ATACMS systems are increasingly becoming a financial burden as the military seeks to replace them with more advanced missile technologies.
Pentagon procurement reports show that some ATACMS missiles in U.S. inventories expired in 2015, and in fiscal year 2016, $30.1 million was allocated to modify and reset the contractual service life of 10 expired units. Given the 10-year operational lifespan of ATACMS, these refurbished missiles are projected to reach the end of their operational service by 2025. From fiscal 2016 to 2021, the Army invested $1.22 billion to modify 1,075 ATACMS units, while an additional 240 units were purchased in fiscal 2020, expanding the inventory to 1,575 by 2023.
Simultaneously, the U.S. Army has been transitioning to the more advanced Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), with a notable increase in procurement. From fiscal 2023 to 2025, the military has steadily ramped up its purchases of PrSMs, with projections reaching 230 units by 2025. While ATACMS missiles cost around $1 million each, the PrSM carries a price tag of over $2 million, reflecting its enhanced capabilities.
The expiration of a missile’s shelf life is a serious concern for its reliability, given the degradation of crucial components over time. Missiles rely on complex systems such as fuel and electronics, which can deteriorate after their designated shelf life. If not adequately maintained, these systems may experience failures in critical areas, such as engine performance and guidance systems, compromising their effectiveness.
However, expired missiles are not automatically rendered unusable. With proper inspection, maintenance, and component replacement—especially for sensors, electronics, and fuel stability—these missiles can be brought back into operational condition. While regular servicing ensures their functionality, the lack of maintenance may lead to increased risk on the battlefield, raising questions about the potential hazards of using these missiles without the necessary updates.
In conclusion, while expired ATACMS missiles may still be effective if properly maintained, their use carries inherent risks, particularly if they have not undergone the required updates. The challenges surrounding their deployment must be carefully considered within the broader context of the U.S. military’s evolving missile strategy.
