Ukrainian tactical ballistic missile FP-7 has successfully completed combat testing over Russian territory, but its mass deployment remains economically unfeasible due to high manufacturing costs compared to alternative delivery platforms, according to Fire Point co-owner Denys Shtylerman.
Combat Testing and Manufacturing Status of FP-7
The FP-7 tactical ballistic missile has successfully passed combat use following its first deployment over Russian territory in October, focus-news.net reported. While the production line operates serially, manufacturing priorities are shifting toward alternative platforms for delivering a 200-kilogram warhead, according to statements made by Fire Point co-owner Denys Shtylerman during the “United News” telethon.
The weapon system features a range of up to 300 kilometers with a stated target deviation of up to 15 meters, positioning it as a less expensive domestic alternative to American ATACMS systems. However, engineering teams continue working to increase both range and strike precision.
Cost Comparison Between FP-7 and FP-2 Drones
Financial evaluations show that producing and fielding the FP-7 is economically inefficient when cheaper delivery systems exist within the company’s portfolio, fakti.bg reported. Each FP-7 missile costs approximately $600,000 to manufacture.
In contrast, Fire Point produces the FP-2 unmanned aerial vehicle, which delivers an equivalent 200-kilogram warhead across the same 300-kilometer distance for approximately $50,000. Shtylerman noted that deploying 16 FP-2 drones for the cost of a single FP-7 missile provides significantly greater operational volume, carrying 16 times more warheads and executing 16 times as many missions.
Heavy missile design limits explosive payload capacity
The stark price disparity stems from the inherent physical design requirements of ballistic missiles. According to company leadership, ballistic missile bodies require exceptionally heavy and durable structures to withstand extreme flight forces, leaving less internal volume for standard high explosives unless configured as a cluster munition.
Economic justification for active FP-7 deployment will return once a modified version featuring a cluster warhead completes official codification and enters active service. Meanwhile, Fire Point is advancing its next-generation platform, the FP-9 ballistic missile, which is currently undergoing final testing ahead of anticipated combat deployment in the near future.
Frequently Asked Questions About the FP-7 Program
What is the range and payload capacity of the FP-7?
The tactical ballistic missile delivers a 200-kilogram warhead up to 300 kilometers with a target deviation of up to 15 meters.
Why is Fire Point limiting mass production of the FP-7?
Each missile costs approximately $600,000, making it significantly more expensive than delivering the same 200-kilogram payload via FP-2 drones, which cost around $50,000 per unit.
When was the FP-7 first used in combat?
The weapon saw its first combat launch over Russian territory in October.
What is the status of the newer FP-9 model?
The FP-9 ballistic missile is currently passing through final testing phases ahead of expected combat employment.
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