Why Russia Might Not Be Utilizing BrahMos Cruise Missiles in Ukraine

It’s a question that frequently arises amid the ongoing conflict: Why is Russia not utilizing the BrahMos cruise missiles, which could potentially be a game-changer in the Ukrainian theater? The answers lie in the complex dynamics of war, cost, and strategic choice.

Understanding the Context

First, it’s important to contextualize the situation. Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s invasion is no small feat. The international community stands largely united in condemning the war, with many attributing it to Putin’s aggressive stance rather than a war of Russian nation-states. Even among the people who know Russia personally, there is a stark divide, with the majority standing against the invasion.

Russian Arsenal and Strategic Considerations

The BrahMos cruise missile, while highly effective, is a strategic asset that Russia has, but might not be utilizing to the fullest extent. These missiles, jointly developed by India and Russia, are tremendously accurate and can hit targets hundreds of miles away, making them an appealing option for targeted strikes. However, several factors hinder their deployment:

Supply and Affordability

The BrahMos missiles are not in unlimited supply, and their cost is prohibitive. With each missile reportedly costing around 4 million dollars, Russia’s decision to carefully manage such an expensive weapon is wise. It’s not rational to spend that much money on a single attack when less expensive alternatives like artillery could achieve the same objective for a fraction of the cost. Moreover, other Russian missiles like Oniks are a slightly superior version and might be preferred in this context.

Strategic Combinations and Balance

Warfare is a multifaceted affair that requires a balanced and comprehensive approach. Russia’s strength lies in its abundance of artillery but lacks the longer-range artillery to match the western-supplied artillery that Ukraine has. Cost and resource management dictate that Russia uses its fleet of weapons judiciously and strategically. Russia, with its current financial situation and military budget constraints, cannot afford to squander expensive assets like BrahMos missiles on minor targets.

Developing and Testing New Technology

Additionally, Russia’s emphasis on hypersonic missiles like the Kinzhal underscores its focus on cutting-edge technology. The Kinzhal, with its speed and precision, represents the future of Russia’s armament and is likely to be more strategically important in its ongoing arms race with other global powers, including the United States.

The Cost of Modern Warfare

Warfare incurs immense costs, both financially and in terms of human life. Each missile attack or artillery strike costs millions, and an all-out clash involving advanced weaponry could easily run into the billions. The financial burden on Russia, already facing significant economic sanctions and budgetary constraints, highlights the necessity for calculated military expenditures.

Conclusion

While the BrahMos cruise missiles present a potent option for target-specific attacks, the realities of war, cost management, and strategic planning mean that Russia’s choice to use other types of weaponry might be more about fiscal prudence and long-term strategic objectives. It’s a complex decision influenced by a myriad of factors, each with its implications for the ongoing conflict and Russia’s broader geopolitical stance.

Keywords: BrahMos, Russia, Ukraine, Missile Deployment, Cost Analysis