Ukraine has presented its new long-range cruise missile, the Flamingo, capable of carrying a 1,150 kg warhead and striking targets up to 3,000 km away. The missile, resistant to Russian electronic warfare, was showcased on August 22, 2025. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that mass production could begin by late 2025 or early 2026, marking a significant milestone in Ukraine’s defense industry modernization.
Industrial-scale production despite war constraints
According to Irina Terekh, CEO of the Ukrainian defense company Fire Point, the Flamingo is already in serial production, with plans to manufacture around 200 units per month. This achievement comes despite limited financial and technical resources, highlighting Ukraine’s ability to expand its military-industrial base even during wartime. Experts note that the production scale of such advanced systems demonstrates the country’s growing capacity to sustain long-term military operations.
Strategic impact on Russia’s war costs
Missile technology expert Hoffmann estimated that the deployment of 3,000–5,000 Flamingo missiles could potentially disable over 25% of Russia’s industrial output. By enabling strikes deep inside Russian territory, Ukraine increases the cost of aggression for the Kremlin, making the war tangible not only for frontline regions but also for Russia’s wider economy and society. Previous projects, such as the domestically produced Sapsan ballistic missile, had already demonstrated Ukraine’s ability to scale high-tech weapons manufacturing.
Defense industry growth boosts autonomy and foreign interest
Ukraine’s defense industry now reportedly covers up to 40% of the army’s needs through domestic production, granting the military greater autonomy and flexibility. Kyiv is also seeking up to $5 billion in foreign investment for infrastructure and industrial projects, with defense manufacturing viewed not just as an emergency measure but as a strategic long-term sector. The development of systems like the Flamingo underscores Ukraine’s growing role as a defense innovator, drawing international attention and strengthening partnerships.
