The process of codifying the FP‑7 tactical ballistic missile at Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, co‑owner and chief designer of Fire Point, Denys Shtilerman, has said.
“We plan to complete the codification process for the FP7 tactical ballistic missile at the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine by the end of 2025,” he told Natalia Moseichuk in an interview.
“FP7 is a ready missile — it already flies. We are now finalising our tests and hope to be put into service before the New Year (…) But according to our regulations, this is not classified as a missile, but as a ballistic drone. A second such ballistic drone — the FP9, with an 800‑km range and an 850‑kg warhead — we hope to put into service by June next year,” Shtilerman said.
He noted that the missile will have a relatively simple design, and thanks to advance production setup and a funded order, the missiles will “roll out like pies.”
According to the developer, a critical remaining issue is the precision inertial navigation system, for which the company currently has to purchase laser gyroscopes. A domestic gyroscope production line is now being built.
Given security risks and the sensitivity of such manufacturing, the new plant is being constructed abroad, in the territory of an unnamed partner country.
“Unfortunately, this enterprise — just like the casting of solid‑fuel engines — cannot be located in Ukraine. One strike, and all the test stands must be recalibrated. This would take time and halt production,” Shtilerman explained.
