August 22,2025
Ukraine has begun serial production of its domestically developed “Flamingo” cruise missile, a long-range projectile capable of striking targets as far as 3,000 kilometers (1,864 miles) away, officials say.
The Associated Press reports that the country is currently producing roughly one missile per day while citing Firing Point, a company that is overseen by Ukraine’s Defense Ministry.
An increase in output aims to produce seven missiles daily by October. AP journalists based their dispatch on visiting one of the factories run by Fire Point
“Spurred by its existential fight against Russia — and limited military assistance from Western allies — Ukraine has fast become a global center for defense innovation,” the report reads.
Testing of the Flamingo missile was completed this year, after nine months of development. Experts estimate the missile can reach targets with an accuracy of up to 14 meters and carries one of the largest payloads of its type in the world — up to 1,150 kilograms (2,535 pounds).
The first missiles were painted pink due to a production error, earning the missile its nickname, “Flamingo,” which stuck.
Monthly production could eventually reach 200 units, said Fire Point CEO Iryna Terekh, according to U.S.-based media outlet Politico.
“Ukrainian defense officials say their country is determined to become more self-sufficient in deterring Russia,” the report reads.
Cover: Efrem Lukatsky, AP
