Ukraine’s defense sector is collaborating with European companies to develop a new missile system to replace the US Patriot missile, designed to counter Russia’s ballistic missile threat.
The move comes as Ukraine’s President suggested that delays in receiving much-needed Patriot missiles could be a deliberate strategy by the US to weaken Ukraine in future peace negotiations. Recent ballistic attacks by Kremlin forces have resulted in at least 13 casualties across Ukraine, while Ukrainian forces have targeted Russia’s energy sector with deep-strike drone attacks.
Fire Point, a drone and missile manufacturer based in Kyiv, has struck agreements with twelve European defense firms to provide radar and guidance systems for the Freyja missile project. The initiative, supported by ten European governments and 12 defense industry leaders such as Eurosam, Leonardo, Thales, and SAAB, was officially launched in Paris last month.
Ukraine currently depends on US-made Patriots to intercept ballistic missiles traveling at supersonic speeds and to counter Putin’s missile threats. However, a global shortage of interceptor missiles, exacerbated by conflicts in Iran, has left Ukraine vulnerable and President Zelensky in urgent need of support.
Recent missile and drone attacks in Kyiv and its surroundings have resulted in the deaths of 17 individuals, with an additional 13 casualties reported by Thursday as a result of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s military actions. Zelensky emphasized the critical importance of swift political decisions and support from European and US partners to safeguard lives in Ukraine.
The CEO of Fire Point, Iryna Terekh, expressed confidence in the progress of the new missile project, stating that key components such as surveillance and tracking radars are being integrated. Efforts are underway to expedite the project timeline and reduce the cost of each missile to approximately £800,000, significantly lower than the cost of a Patriot missile. The new European-Ukrainian interceptor missile has reportedly undergone five successful tests.
