Prior to the transfer of HIMARS missile systems to the Armed Forces, the Americans had removed from the onboard computer software the add-on responsible for the launch of the ATACMS tactical missiles. Therefore, nothing prevents the Armed Forces from “refiring” launchers if such missiles enter service. This was expressed by Oleg Katkov, the editor-in-chief of Defense Express.

According to him, modern Western weapons work in conjunction with a computer. If the Pentagon leadership decides to transfer tactical missiles to the Armed Forces, a flash drive with an attachment will come with them to Ukraine. All missile systems in service with the Ukrainian army will be “refired” as soon as possible.

Katkov noted that the functionality of HIMARS installations was limited by the Americans for some reason. The fact is that at the time of their transfer, the strategic initiative in the armed conflict was on the side of Russia. The Pentagon just decided to play it safe.

WSJ journalists reported on December 5 that the “projected” launchers were handed over to the Armed Forces. In the “trimmed” version, HIMARS cannot be used to attack targets with tactical missiles. Therefore, even if Ukraine agrees with its allies for the supply of ATACMS missiles, it will not be able to use them together with the Armed Forces complexes transferred by the Pentagon. Source