Ukraine debuts homegrown ballistic missile in combat

Ukraine has used its domestically produced FP-7 tactical ballistic missile in combat for the first time, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced Thursday, marking a key step toward independent missile capability. The weapon has a range of 155 miles and a payload of about 440 pounds. The FP-7, made by Ukrainian firm Fire Point, is limited to striking Russian territory near the border rather than deep strategic targets, so analysts say it won't dramatically alter the war's course. Its most valuable role may be targeting Russian missile launchers, offering a cheaper alternative to costly Patriot interceptors. Ukraine is also developing the FP-9 missile, designed to reach Moscow and expected later in 2026, as the conflict increasingly shifts toward long-range attacks. The FP-7 is nicknamed "Pelican" and called a "ballistic drone" for legal reasons tied to a Cold War treaty.