Photo: Fire Point tests FP-7.X interceptor missile (video still)
Ukrainian defense company Fire Point has tested its FP-7.X interceptor missile, which is being developed as a lower-cost alternative to US Patriot air defense systems, according to the Financial Times.
Co-founder Denys Shtilerman said the first test flight took place last week and was successful. The FP-7.X is designed to intercept Russian ballistic missiles and drones at altitudes of up to around 25 kilometers, broadly matching the capabilities of Patriot-class systems.
The company says the main advantage of the new interceptor is its significantly lower cost. Each missile is estimated at about $700,000, compared with roughly $3.8 million for a PAC-3 interceptor used in the Patriot system.
Fire Point plans to begin serial production in August this year, although the project still depends on receiving infrared homing seekers from German defense company Diehl Defence. Under current plans, the missile could enter service by 2027.
Alongside the interceptor, the company is developing a broader air defense system called Freyja, which would include radars, tracking systems, and command-and-control components. Ukraine is reportedly in talks with European defense firms including Hensoldt, Thales, Leonardo, and Kongsberg to support the project.
Shtilerman said progress depends on the speed of Western partners and their willingness to move forward with development and integration.
Experts note that building effective interceptor missiles is technically complex and requires extensive testing in real conditions. In Ukraine’s case, the ongoing war effectively serves as a testing environment, accelerating development but also increasing performance demands.
Analysts also stress that FP-7.X is unlikely to replace Patriot systems, but could complement Ukraine’s air defense network and help address shortages of expensive Western interceptors, especially as officials continue to report limited stocks of missiles for systems such as Patriot, NASAMS, and IRIS-T.
