US Approval of 3,350 ERAM Missiles Transfer to Ukraine
On 28 August, U.S. officials approved the transfer of 3,350 Extended-Range Active Missiles (ERAMs) to Ukraine. The authorization, reported in the wake of high-level talks involving U.S., Russian, and Ukrainian leaders, was part of roughly an $850 million security aid package funded mainly by Ukraine’s European allies. The first ERAM missiles are expected to arrive in Ukraine within about six weeks.
ERAM is an air-launched version of the US Navy’s Standard Missile-6 (SM-6). It can intercept enemy aircraft, cruise missiles, and even ballistic missiles during their terminal phase. It is equipped with an active-radar seeker and GPS/INS guidance. ERAM can strike targets at a range of roughly 240–450km and carries a heavy blast-fragmentation warhead for destroying hardened or high-value targets. In U.S. service, the SM-6 is part of the Aegis air‐defense family, often described as a “three-in-one” weapon (anti-air, anti-missile, and anti-ship).
As a standoff strike weapon, ERAM greatly extends Ukraine’s offensive reach. Western-supplied F-16 fighters and other jets can carry the missile, enabling them to target logistical hubs, ammunition depots, and command centers from a considerable distance outside Russia’s dense air defenses. ERAM lets Ukrainian pilots engage high-value targets while keeping aircraft safe from systems like the S-400. This could force Russian forces to relocate supply and command nodes deeper into rear areas. In addition to offensive strikes, ERAM’s heritage also bolsters air defense: in U.S. practice, the SM-6 can be used against incoming cruise and even terminal-phase ballistic missiles.
Strategically, the ERAM package underscores NATO solidarity and burden-sharing. European nations, which underwrite most of the approximately $850 million package, signal a strong commitment to Ukraine’s defense while co-managing the risk of escalation. U.S. officials have emphasized that the transfer includes strict caveats: each ERAM launch must obtain Pentagon approval to confirm adherence to agreed targeting limits. These safeguards are intended to empower Kyiv’s deep-strike capability while preventing unintended strikes on Russian territory. =
Official reactions have been cautious with the White House’s press secretary noting there is “no change in military posture despite the new aid”, even as President Trump publicly argued Ukraine must “play offense” to win the war. ERAM is one of the most consequential weapons deliveries to date, but its ultimate impact will hinge on how effectively Ukraine integrates the missiles and follows the U.S.-mandated approval process. The deal marks a significant enhancement of Ukraine’s air defense and long-range strike capabilities.