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UKRAINE has deployed its domestic FP-7 tactical ballistic missile in combat against Russian forces for the first time, President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed.
"First combat use. Thank you for the results. Next is production," Zelensky said in a post published on Telegram.
The Ukrainian president did not disclose the location or exact operational details of where the FP-7 was deployed.
Its manufacturer, Fire Point, stated that the weapon was developed as a missile interceptor under a European defence initiative known as the Freyja programme, launched earlier this year.
Ukrainian military analysts describe the FP-7 as a short-range missile with an operational reach of approximately 200 kilometres, comparing its performance to the United States Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) but produced at a significantly lower cost.
Although Ukraine's manufacturing capacity remains well behind that of Russia, Kyiv views domestic tactical ballistic missile production as essential to counter Moscow's frequent missile strikes across the country.
The development follows Russian drone strikes on Thursday that hit a school in Kyiv and a vital bridge crossing the Dnipro River, sparking major fires in the capital, according to local officials.
The school was struck early in the morning; however, all students were inside bomb shelters at the time and no casualties were reported, municipal authorities confirmed.
In separate developments, Ukraine has maintained its campaign of strikes against Russian oil refineries, despite opposition from US President Donald Trump. - October 3, 2026
