Key facts
- Ukraine could be capable of launching domestically produced ballistic missiles against Russia within three to six months.
- Former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov expects a Ukrainian ballistic missile to be launched before the end of the year.
- Ballistic missiles would offer Ukraine a faster and potentially more difficult-to-intercept option for long-range attacks.
- Ukrainian defense manufacturer Fire Point tested a ballistic missile in June.
- Fedorov was dismissed as defense minister in July amid reported conflicts.
Ukraine could be capable of using domestically produced ballistic missiles to strike targets inside Russia within the next three to six months, former Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov told CBS News. Fedorov stated that Ukraine needs to defeat Russia in every technological cycle and that decisions must be made rapidly.
Before his dismissal in July, Fedorov was instrumental in developing Ukraine's strategy of using drones and other technologies to counter Russia's advantages. Currently, Kyiv relies on long-range drones and cruise missiles for deep strikes. Ballistic missiles would provide a faster and potentially more intercept-resistant option.
Russia frequently uses ballistic missiles against Ukrainian cities and infrastructure, posing a significant challenge to Ukraine's air defenses. In June, Ukrainian defense manufacturer Fire Point tested a ballistic missile as part of efforts to expand the country's long-range arsenal. Fedorov, who indicated that Ukraine's ballistic missile program accelerated during his tenure, anticipates a Ukrainian ballistic missile launch against Russia before the year's end.
Fedorov was dismissed in mid-July, reportedly due to a conflict with Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, leading to protests across Ukraine. A new demonstration occurred on August 16, with protesters awaiting a potential nomination for acting Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara. Fedorov declined to detail the reasons for his dismissal but emphasized Ukraine's continued fight and commitment to democratic values. He did not rule out a future return to government, stating his work would focus on ending the war and rebuilding Ukraine.