Ukraine and Norway Race to Test FREYJA Ballistic Missile Interceptor by Year’s End

Ukraine and Norway are accelerating development of the FREYJA anti-ballistic missile defense program, with initial components already showing progress and the first tests targeted for the end of 2026.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the development on October 21 following a meeting with Norwegian Defense Minister Tore O. Sandvik, Kongsberg CEO Eirik Lie, and representatives of the Norwegian defense company.

According to Zelenskyy, Norway is actively participating in the European FREYJA program, which aims to develop new capabilities for intercepting ballistic missile threats.

The Ukrainian president confirmed that work on individual elements of the system has already produced initial results. During the meeting, Ukrainian and Norwegian officials identified areas where development could be accelerated to begin testing before the end of the year.

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Defense Tech

Ukraine Is Racing to Build FREYJA—Zelenskyy Reveals When the Anti-Ballistic System Should Be Ready

Sep 11, 2026 10:30

Kongsberg, one of Norway’s leading defense manufacturers, produces the NASAMS air defense system, which Ukraine currently operates to protect cities and critical infrastructure against Russian missile and drone attacks.

The discussions also addressed additional military assistance from Norway. Zelenskyy said Ukraine expects new defense support packages to arrive as early as November, although he did not specify their contents.

Another priority was the development of new satellite communications capabilities for Ukraine’s Defense Forces. Zelenskyy said the initiative would involve additional international partners with the necessary technological resources.

Earlier, Ukrainian defense manufacturer Fire Point upgraded its FP-7.x Freyja interceptor missile with a dual-mode infrared and radar seeker. Developed as part of the European FREYJA program, the missile is designed to counter ballistic threats, including Russia’s Iskander-class missiles, while offering a lower-cost alternative to US-made Patriot interceptors.

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