Ukraine Nears Completion of 850 km Ballistic Missile: Summer Trials Expected.

Fire Point Designer Reveals Plans for Long-Range Strikes

According to Novyny.live: Ukraine is putting the finishing touches on a new long-range ballistic missile capable of reaching 850 kilometers. Denis Shtilerman, a designer at the company 'Fire Point', has confirmed that the final tests for the missile, designated the 'Nine' (FP-9), are scheduled for the summer of 2025. The weapon is expected to be ready for deployment by the middle of the year. This development marks a significant step in Ukraine's efforts to bolster its domestic defense industry amid ongoing regional tensions.

The 'Nine' is a more powerful evolution of the earlier 'Seven' model (FP-7), which has a range of up to 300 kilometers and carries a 250-kilogram warhead. In contrast, the new FP-9 can deliver up to 800 kilograms of explosives, greatly enhancing its destructive capability.

“We have mastered the full ballistic cycle, and that is crucial. There is only one foreign-made component in this missile; everything else is produced right here by us.”

Denis Shtilerman

The estimated cost of the FP-7 missile is up to $500,000. The development of these long-range missiles was announced in September 2024, highlighting Ukraine's active push to advance its own defense capabilities.

Cost-Effective Mobility for New Missile Systems

Another key advantage is the mobility and low cost of the new missile systems. The 'Nine' will be launched from ground-based 'Flamingo' platforms, providing added flexibility in deployment. This approach underscores Ukraine’s strategy to strengthen its defensive posture by relying on indigenous rocket technology.

The creation of the 'Nine' missile underscores Ukraine’s growing efforts to fortify national defense and reduce dependence on foreign technology. In the face of modern challenges like armed conflict, the ability to develop and field new weapons is critical for national security. The increased range and payload of these missiles could significantly alter strategic calculations in the region.