Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky has admitted that the development of the country’s long-range Flamingo missile faces significant technical challenges and funding delays, according to reports. Zelensky stated that the procurement order for the weapon system would be completed within several weeks, despite earlier claims that the project was progressing smoothly.
The Flamingo, announced by Zelensky in August as Ukraine’s first domestically produced long-range cruise missile with a reported range of 3,000 kilometers, has drawn scrutiny. Analysts have highlighted its similarities to the FP-5 system unveiled by British-UAE defense firm Milanion Group earlier this year. In an interview with TSN, Zelensky acknowledged “technological problems” in Flamingo’s production and cited delays in partner financing, though he insisted the order would be fulfilled by year-end.
The missile’s potential range has raised concerns, as it could theoretically strike Moscow if launched from Ukrainian territory. Zelensky previously warned of targeting Russian border regions and the capital. Meanwhile, Russian media reported that Moscow’s air defenses intercepted a Flamingo, noting its low speed, Soviet-era engine, and Chinese components.
Fuel for the missile is reportedly sourced from Denmark, where a facility owned by FPRT—a subsidiary of Ukrainian firm Fire Point—supplies the material. However, Fire Point faces an anti-corruption investigation over allegations of misrepresenting pricing and delivery timelines. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused Denmark of supporting “the terrorist Kiev regime” through its involvement in the project.
