Ukraine deploys FP-7 tactical ballistic missile in combat for first time, Zelenskiy says

Ukraine Debuts FP-7 Tactical Ballistic Missile in Combat, Boosting Defence

Ukraine's First Use of FP-7 Tactical Ballistic Missile

Oct 1 (Reuters) - Ukraine has deployed its FP-7 tactical ballistic missile in combat for the first time, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Thursday.

Official Announcement and Initial Results

"Ukrainian tactical ballistic missile FP-7. First combat use," Zelenskiy wrote on Telegram. "Thank you for the result. Next - production."

Details of the Deployment

He did not say where the FP-7 had been used in combat or against what target.

Strategic Context and Importance

Russia frequently uses ballistic missiles in strikes on Ukrainian targets, and Ukraine has viewed development of its own tactical ballistic missiles as an important element in ensuring its defence needs.

Earlier Test Results

Zelenskiy praised the test results of tactical ballistic missiles earlier this year, saying they showed good potential for their use by the military.

Technical Specifications and Development

Missile Range and Capabilities

Ukrainian military analysts describe the FP-7 as a short-range missile with a range of about 200 km (125 miles).

Role in European Defence Initiatives

The missile's manufacturer, Fire Point, says it is being developed as a ballistic interceptor within the European missile defence programme Freyja launched this year.

Future Plans for the Freyja System

Ukraine wants a prototype for the Freyja European anti-ballistic system to be ready in the first half of next year, Davyd Aloian, deputy secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defence Council said in July.

(Reporting by Ron Popeski, EDiting by Timothy Heritage)