Ukraine hopes to test the first European anti-ballistic missile defense system it is developing together with partners as early as this winter. President Volodymyr Zelensky stressed that Ukraine cannot implement such a project on its own.
This was reported by Suspilne following Zelensky’s remarks during his visit to Denmark.
According to the president, Ukraine is working together with European partners to create a system capable of protecting against ballistic missiles.
“I hope that this winter we will test the new, first European anti-ballistic missile system and achieve certain results. We all need this,” Zelensky said.
He stressed that such cooperation is important not only for Ukraine but for the security of all of Europe.
Denmark to produce radars for FREYJA
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said her country would join the development of the European FREYJA anti-ballistic missile system.
According to her, Danish companies can manufacture the radar systems needed for the complex.
Denmark will also take on a coordinating role in the project.
A special office is planned to be established in the country to facilitate cooperation between defense companies and the states involved in the program.
Frederiksen stressed that the war in Ukraine has demonstrated the need for reliable air and missile defense to protect civilians and critical infrastructure.
What is known about FREYJA
Ukraine is working with European partners on a joint anti-ballistic missile defense system under the FREYJA program.
Zelensky previously said that Ukraine is capable of independently developing and manufacturing an interceptor missile and launcher, but that participation from partners is needed to build the complete system.
The first meeting under the program took place in Paris on July 13.
Ten countries became founding members of the Integrated Anti-Ballistic Coalition: Ukraine, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom.
On November 10, during a meeting with Frederiksen, Zelensky also discussed implementation of the FREYJA program and the development of joint defense production.
Protecting shipping in the Black Sea
Zelensky separately said that Ukraine is working with partners to protect shipping in the Black Sea.
According to him, Russia attacks vessels with drones and missiles regardless of which country they belong to.
Ukraine and its partners are discussing the use of various types of drones to escort ships.
The president said he had already reviewed part of one of the new projects and expects practical results in the near future.
