Ukraine's FP-9 missile nears testing as production scales up to rival Russia

Ukraine is expanding its missile production capabilities, with new projects aimed at increasing output and efficiency. The country already has ballistic missiles that can hit targets 300 kilometres away. With enough funding, it could soon outpace Russia in missile production. Ukraine is currently working on the FP-9 ballistic missile. Ground tests of its heavy engine, which must be cast in a single pour, are already underway. The first test launches of the FP-9 are expected to start soon.

Fire Point, the developer, has built its own propellant processing plant for the missile. The FP-9 is estimated to cost under $1 million each. However, the company is prioritising mass production over complex engineering solutions.

Ukraine is also producing and stockpiling missiles for the future Freya project. In addition, it can already deliver a 200-kilogram warhead over 380 kilometres using a drone for $40,000, far cheaper than the $600,000 cost of a ballistic missile. The FP-9 missile is nearing its first test phase. Ukraine’s ability to produce missiles at scale could shift the balance in its favour. The country is also exploring cost-effective alternatives like drones for long-range strikes.