Ukraine claims to have deployed FP-7 missiles in combat for the first time.

Reference News Network, October 6 According to a report by Reuters on October 1, Ukrainian President Zelensky stated on the 1st that Ukraine has used the FP-7 tactical ballistic missile for the first time in combat.

Zelensky posted on the "Telegram" app: "The Ukrainian tactical ballistic missile FP-7 has been deployed in actual combat for the first time. Thanks for the achieved results. Next step: mass production."

He did not specify the location of the FP-7 missile's actual combat use or the targets struck.

Russia frequently uses ballistic missiles to attack Ukrainian targets. After four and a half years of conflict, Ukraine views the development of its own tactical ballistic missiles as an important part of meeting its national defense needs.

With the upcoming winter, it is expected that Russia will continue to launch offensives. Kyiv is preparing for this, thus increasing the need for effective interception of ballistic missiles. Ukraine's missile production lags far behind that of Russia.

Earlier this year, Zelensky praised the test results of this tactical ballistic missile, stating that it demonstrated good military potential.

According to Ukrainian military analysts, the FP-7 is classified as a short-range missile with a range of about 200 kilometers.

The missile manufacturer "Firepoint" stated that the FP-7 was developed as a ballistic interceptor within the framework of the European missile defense program "Freya," which was launched this year.

Military analysts compare the FP-7 to the U.S. Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), of which the U.S. has provided some to Ukraine. In response to the Russian threat, the FP-7 is being developed at an accelerated pace, and its cost is much lower than that of the ATACMS.

"Firepoint" is also developing the FP-9 missile, which has a maximum range of up to 850 kilometers. The head of the company stated that this missile is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

Analysts believe that if both missiles are put into use, Ukraine will have the capability to strike Russian missile launch sites and production facilities, putting pressure on Moscow's war infrastructure.

Ukraine and its main Western allies announced in July the formation of an air defense alliance to advance the "Freya" project, aiming to jointly develop a more affordable alternative air defense system than the U.S. "Patriot."

David Aloyan, Deputy Secretary of the Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council, stated in July that Ukraine hopes the prototype of the "Freya" system will be unveiled in the first half of next year. (Translated by Liu Zongya)

"Firepoint" company's booth at the 2026 European International Defense Exhibition (AFP)