Zelenskyy said that the Freyja system could become operational within the next year
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has stated that Ukraine is working alongside its European partners to develop the Freyja anti-ballistic missile system, which could become operational as early as next year. The Head of State made this announcement during a meeting of the Anti-Ballistic Missile Coalition.
According to the president, the need for protection against ballistic missiles already exceeds current capabilities, which is why Europe needs its own modern missile defence system.
“Europe needs more anti-ballistic capabilities. A system that is strong, reliable and cheaper than other systems. Together, we can create such a system and the interceptor missiles for it. It will be called Freyja, and I am grateful that this work has begun,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The President emphasised that Ukraine is ready to fulfil its part of the project.
“Ukraine can provide its part – the anti-ballistic missile. We are currently finalising work on it. Others have the radars and other critically important components. It is important that we join forces. Today, at the leadership level, it is very important to confirm politically that Freyja is our joint project,” noted the Head of State.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy also reported that countries belonging to the Anti-Ballistic Missile Coalition, as well as leading defence companies, have already joined the project. According to him, a large number of countries and companies have already confirmed their readiness to work together.
The President noted that the United States is expanding production of Patriot systems, whilst Europe is working to increase production of SAMP/T, IRIS-T and NASAMS. At the same time, he said, the need for protection against ballistic missiles exceeds current production capacity.
Separately, the Head of State stated that Russia is relying on ballistic missile strikes against towns and villages in Ukraine, and that cooperation between Russia and North Korea has led to the improvement of North Korean missiles.
“I hope that within the next 12 months we will see Freyja in action. The threat from ballistic missiles around the world will only grow. This is one of the main consequences of the wars waged by Russia and Iran. That is why Freyja must become a reality,” concluded Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
