Ukraine Unveils New ‘Flamingo’ Missile Capable of Striking Moscow

Ukraine has successfully launched a new long-range missile named “Flamingo,” which allows Kyiv to target locations in Moscow for the first time. This advanced weapon boasts a range exceeding 3,000 kilometers and is equipped with a substantial 1,000 kg warhead. The missile’s design draws inspiration from the British-made FP-5 missile, developed by the UAE-based defence contractor Milanion.

Footage of the missile launch showcases its remarkable capabilities, as it takes to the sky after being fired from a twin-axle ramp. The cruise missile’s turbofan propulsion system enables it to reach speeds of up to 900 km/h, with a maximum flight duration of approximately four hours. The missile’s design prioritizes range, warhead mass, and rapid deployment, making it a significant addition to Ukraine’s defensive arsenal.

Technical Specifications and Development

The Flamingo missile is manufactured at a secure facility located in the Carpathians, western Ukraine. Its engineers have incorporated features such as a dorsal air intake for the jet engine and an X-tail design. To enhance its effectiveness, the missile also includes resistance to electronic warfare, ensuring it can successfully reach its intended targets.

This missile marks a crucial advancement in Ukraine’s military capabilities, particularly in the ongoing conflict initiated by Russia over three years ago. The Flamingo missile complements Ukraine’s existing long-range drones and missile systems, allowing for more effective strikes against high-value targets, including oil refineries and air bases.

Geopolitical Context and Responses

As Ukraine continues to strengthen its military capabilities, Russian President Vladimir Putin has intensified assaults on the country. In the backdrop of this escalation, European leaders, including Donald Trump, have been discussing security guarantees for Ukraine. Recent meetings in Washington featured leaders like Sir Keir Starmer, Emmanuel Macron, and Giorgia Meloni, focusing on strategies to bolster Ukraine’s defense.

The prospect of a summit between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been raised, potentially occurring in Geneva, Switzerland, where the country has assured it would not arrest Putin if he attends for peace talks. Discussions on the timeline suggest this meeting could happen within the next two weeks, as indicated by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

While Trump’s administration has ruled out deploying US troops on the ground as a security guarantee, other forms of American support, both by sea and air, remain on the table. The situation continues to evolve, with European leaders contemplating proposals similar to NATO’s Article 5, which mandates collective defense among member states.

The introduction of the Flamingo missile not only enhances Ukraine’s offensive capabilities but also reflects the ongoing arms race and strategic maneuvering in the region. As the conflict persists, Ukraine’s focus on developing advanced weaponry signals its commitment to defending its sovereignty against external aggression.