Ukraine has publicly demonstrated the launch of its new FP-7 ballistic missile for the first time, marking a notable step in the country's domestic missile development efforts. The video of the launch and initial flight phase was released by Denis Shtilerman, chief designer and co-owner of the Ukrainian defense company Fire Point.
FP-7 missile was first announced in autumn 2025 and is presented as a short-range ballistic missile with a declared range of up to 200 kilometers. According to the developer, it carries a 150-kilogram warhead, can reach speeds of up to 1,500 meters per second (approximately 5,400 km/h), and climb to an altitude of 65 kilometers. The total flight time is stated to be around 250 seconds, with a claimed circular error probable of 14 meters.
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Developers have openly acknowledged that FP-7 missile is based on Soviet-designed 48N6 missile used in russian S-400 system. While the overall aerodynamic layout and configuration were retained, the Ukrainian version reportedly features a composite body and entirely new internal components, including updated electronics and domestically developed solid fuel. Using a proven airframe concept appears intended to accelerate development timelines while reducing technical risk.
One of the most notable design differences concerns the launch method. Unlike the original 48N6 missile or earlier Soviet missiles that employed a "cold launch" system, ejecting the missile before igniting the main engine, FP-7 system uses a simplified "hot launch" approach. The missile ignites its solid-fuel motor directly from the launcher and travels along an inclined guide rail rather than launching vertically. This design choice suggests an emphasis on rapid fielding and reduced system complexity.
Additional simplifications are visible. The control surfaces do not appear to be folding, which further streamlines manufacturing and deployment. The launcher itself is described as highly simplified and mounted on a standard trailer platform, similar to the company's earlier FP-5 Flamingo missile. Beyond production efficiency, such a configuration may also aid concealment and mobility in operational conditions.
The released footage shows only the boost phase powered by the solid rocket motor, but it confirms that the missile is at least capable of stable powered flight. Fire Point has stated that the propulsion system is also domestically developed. Observers note that the company previously claimed successful operational use of FP-5 missile against high-value targets, suggesting it possesses functioning guidance technologies applicable to newer systems.
According to earlier statements, FP-7 missile was expected to complete codification or at least pass the necessary qualification tests by the end of 2025. The current status of certification has not been publicly clarified. Codification would formally integrate the missile into Ukraine's defense procurement system.
The FP-7 is reportedly one of two ballistic missile projects under development by Fire Point. A larger variant, designated FP-9, is said to have a projected range of 855 kilometers and carry an 800-kilogram warhead, with codification anticipated in 2026. If realized, these systems would represent a significant expansion of Ukraine's domestically produced long-range strike capabilities, developed under wartime conditions with a clear emphasis on speed, adaptability, and practical deployment.
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