Ukrainian Startup Unveils Long-Range Drones and Missiles for Deep Strikes into Russia

Ukraine's Defense Innovation: A New Era of Military Technology

Ukraine has become a significant player in the global defense industry, driven by necessity and limited Western military aid. The country's ability to develop advanced drone technology has been highlighted by a recent drone attack on a Russian ammunition depot last September. This operation showcased Kyiv's capability to strike deep behind enemy lines, emphasizing the rapid growth of its defense sector.

The drones used in the attack were manufactured by Fire Point, a company that has played a crucial role in developing innovative solutions for Ukraine's military needs. These drones traveled over 1,000 kilometers (620 miles), temporarily limiting Russia's capacity for similar glide bomb attacks. Iryna Terekh, head of production at Fire Point, emphasized that air power is Ukraine's main asymmetric advantage, given the resource constraints compared to Russia.

Rapid Growth of Defense Industry

Fire Point operates several covert factories producing FP-1 exploding drones capable of traveling up to 1,600 kilometers (994 miles). The company is also developing the FP-5 cruise missile, which can reach 3,000 kilometers (1,864 miles), with plans for mass production by year-end. This development marks a significant step forward in Ukraine's defense capabilities.

Ukraine now purchases roughly $10 billion in domestically produced weapons annually, but officials believe the domestic industry could supply triple that amount. European exports are expected to further boost capacity, enhancing Ukraine's self-reliance in military equipment.

From Concept to Production

Founded by a group of friends with backgrounds in architecture, construction, and gaming, Fire Point initially aimed to create cost-effective drones to match Iranian-made Shahed drones used by Russia. Starting with a production goal of 30 units per month in 2023, the company now produces about 100 drones daily at $55,000 each. This remarkable growth underscores the company's adaptability and commitment to meeting the demands of the ongoing conflict.

The FP-1, with a 60-kilogram (132-pound) explosive payload, accounts for about 60% of Ukrainian strikes inside Russian territory. This has significantly slowed advances along the 1,000-kilometer front in eastern Ukraine. The success of these drones has not only impacted the battlefield but also transformed Ukraine into what defense entrepreneurs call the "Silicon Valley of defense."

Innovation on the Battlefield

The conflict has spurred rapid innovation, with startups testing and adapting new technologies on the battlefield. Fire Point, for example, developed its own software after Western navigation systems were disrupted by Russian electronic warfare. This self-reliance is critical in an environment where traditional support systems may be compromised.

Despite security risks, Fire Point operates partially underground, using civilian areas as cover. Drones are delivered to the front within 72 hours, ensuring timely support for Ukrainian forces. The FP-5 missile, nicknamed Flamingo, delivers a 1,150-kilogram (2,535-pound) payload with high precision, and production is expected to scale from one to seven units per day by October.

Preparing for the Future

Terekh emphasized that Ukraine continues to prepare for prolonged conflict, even as leaders seek diplomatic solutions. "We are preparing for a bigger, much scarier war," she said. This mindset reflects the determination of Ukraine's defense industry to adapt and innovate in the face of ongoing challenges.

As Ukraine continues to develop its defense capabilities, it is clear that the country is not just defending itself but also contributing to a broader shift in global military technology. The lessons learned and innovations developed in this conflict have the potential to influence future defense strategies worldwide.