A proposed pan-European anti-ballistic missile shield has taken a step forward with the unveiling of a Ukrainian interceptor designed to reach speeds of up to 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) per second.
Developed by Kyiv-based Fire Point, the FP-7.X is intended to serve as the foundation of the broader Freyja missile defense project. It is reportedly capable of engaging targets at altitudes of up to 25 kilometers (16 miles).
According to company co-owner Denys Shtilerman, the missile uses radar guidance during flight before switching to a thermal homing seeker in its terminal phase.
It is positioned to cost less than traditional interceptor missiles currently on the market. Estimates place the FP-7.X at around $700,000 per unit, compared with roughly $3.8 million for its American Patriot counterpart.
Shtilerman said the missile has completed successful firing tests, with mass production expected to begin in August.
If development stays on schedule, the FP-7.X could enter operational service before the end of the year.
The Freyja Project
The Freyja initiative aims to create a shared European ballistic missile defense architecture that can integrate with existing air and missile defense systems operated by allied nations.
Under the concept, the anti-ballistic shield would be jointly owned by participating European countries rather than controlled by a single nation.
Shtilerman added that the project is designed to operate independently of external control, with an open architecture that would allow additional countries to join the network.
