Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine has developed a new ballistic missile, which has successfully passed flight tests.
While details about the missile’s specifications remain classified, the project represents a significant step forward in Ukraine’s efforts to strengthen its domestic defense capabilities amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.
The project is being kept secret, and therefore the name and characteristics of the new ballistic missile remain undisclosed for now. Currently, Ukraine is increasing its focus on building indigenous long-range weapons systems to reduce reliance on international allies.
In addition to the new ballistic missile, Zelensky revealed that Ukrainian forces have already begun deploying the long-range “Palianytsia” missile-drone. “Our armed forces are now utilizing a completely new class of Ukrainian weaponry—the long-range Palianytsia missile-drone,” Zelensky noted. He added that other long-range drones, including maritime drones, are also operational.
Ukraine has been working to develop its own long-range weapons, supplementing its arsenal of kamikaze drones. This effort allows Ukraine to independently conduct strikes without depending on the political decisions of its international partners.
Zelensky also highlighted Ukraine’s domestic production of 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzers known as “Bohdana.” “Currently, Ukraine produces between 15 and 20 Bohdana artillery systems per month,” he said. This marks a significant increase from earlier this year when production was reported at 10 units per month. The doubling of output reflects Ukraine’s commitment to ramping up its military industrial capabilities to meet the demands of the ongoing war.
Ukraine’s advancements in missile and drone technology come at a critical time as the country continues to face intense pressure from Russian forces.