The US can give Ukraine only a few dozen Tomahawks, which is not enough to turn the tide of the war - financial and expert estimates
According to Financial Times, The United States has thousands of Tomahawk cruise missiles, but it can quickly transfer them to Ukraine only a few dozen (approximately 20-50), This estimate is given by the publication with reference to former and current defence experts. The article also estimates that the total US ammunition stockpile is about 4,150 missiles, However, a significant part of them is tied to plans to supply their own forces and allies.
Why there are so few available missiles: logistics, production, priorities
Experts explain the limitations by several factors. Firstly, part of the stockpile is needed to maintain the Navy's own combat-ready personnel and fleet, as well as to meet obligations to allies. Secondly, Tomahawk production capacity is limited: the production of cruise missiles is a long and resource-intensive process that cannot be quickly scaled up to hundreds of units without significant investment and time. Thirdly, the political risks of supplying long-range missiles in the context of deteriorating relations with Russia also influence the administration's decision.
What a former Pentagon official says (expert opinion)
The article quotes the opinions of Pentagon experts, in particular, Mark Cancian's analysis: even with the total stockpile, the US can only provide Ukraine with a limited number of Tomahawks due to production and logistical constraints, and therefore new purchases will not instantly «fill the need». Such supplies will strengthen individual operations, but will not create a sustainable advantage that would fundamentally change the dynamics of hostilities.
Military effect: what will 20-50 missiles do in practice
Even a few dozen Tomahawks can provide Ukraine with new opportunities to hit important strategic targets, such as logistics hubs, ammunition depots, command posts, or air defence systems at long range. However, experts emphasise that in a war where the outcome is decided not by single strikes but by a constant supply of artillery, missiles and ammunition, 20-50 precision-guided missiles are point enhanced capability, rather than a «tipping point». To have a sustainable effect, we need larger, more regular deliveries and increased production.
Political risks and reactions: from Moscow to Washington
The idea of transferring long-range cruise missiles has already provoked a reaction in Moscow, with Russian officials warning of escalating consequences and retaliatory threats. In Washington, the debate is about the balance between helping Ukraine and the risks of direct escalation with Russia, a dilemma explained by both the limited amount of funds and the need to preserve the capabilities of its own armed forces.
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