The Frey Anti-Ballistic Shield Project
Denys Shtilerman, founder of Fire Point, has detailed the reasons behind postponing the launch of Ukraine’s Frey anti-ballistic shield program from June 2025 to February 2026. According to Shtilerman, the primary cause of the delay was the actions of the Anti-Corruption Action Center (ACAC), which he claims distributed engineering documentation to foreign embassies. In response, Fire Point filed a complaint with the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) regarding ACAC’s conduct.
Project Specifications and Strategic Importance
Officially announced by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the Frey project involves developing an interceptor based on a clone of the Soviet S-400 system, designated FP-7. The interceptor is designed to operate at altitudes of up to 20 kilometers. Shtilerman stated that all components of the Frey are manufactured in-house except for a single part, which has already been contracted for in specific quantities.
Shtilerman highlighted that the interceptor is made from carbon fiber, making it lighter and more maneuverable than the S-400.
“It’s made of carbon fiber, it’s lighter, so it will likely fly farther and be more agile than the S-400” - Denys Shtilerman.Regarding cooperation with Norway, he noted that the program gained momentum following a personal visit by the Norwegian Prime Minister, which also contributed to the project’s progress.
Furthermore, Shtilerman emphasized the importance of maintaining control over the interceptor after its sale, stating:
“We have no kill switch; we cannot disable this missile after selling it. It no longer depends on us. And we demand the same from our partners” - Denys Shtilerman.He added that he “gave instructions to forget about these rumors and these storytellers and start working on a pan-European interceptor.”
The implementation of the Frey project represents a critical step in enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities amid growing military threats. Although external factors caused a program delay, this does not diminish the project’s strategic significance. Collaboration with international partners, particularly Norway, could substantially influence the program’s success by providing essential resources and technologies for its completion.
The delay in the Frey anti-ballistic shield program raises questions about broader defense initiatives in the region. In light of these developments, it's important to examine how the recent Pan-European missile defense initiative proposed by Fire Point could impact Ukraine's security landscape and its collaboration with international partners.