Corruption Fire Point and Flamingo Missile, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) has launched an investigation into Fire Point, the manufacturer of FP-1 strike drones and Flamingo cruise missiles.
According to The Kyiv Independent, detectives are checking whether the company inflated prices or quantities of drones supplied to the Ministry of Defense, as well as possible ties to Tymur Mindich, co-owner of Kvartal 95, a studio founded by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Founded in 2023, Fire Point quickly became one of the largest defense contractors, receiving nearly ₴13.2 billion ($320 million) — about 30 % of Ukraine’s drone procurement budget. The company claims to have produced around 2,000 drones, planning to increase output to 9,000 units in 2025.
While NABU investigates possible overpricing and corruption, Fire Point denies wrongdoing, calling the case politically motivated.
“There are no secrets where there are none,” said technical director Iryna Terekh.
President Zelenskyy confirmed that the Flamingo missile will soon enter mass production but added that details remain classified.
Videos published by ZN.UA and photos by Associated Press photographer Efrem Lukatsky show test launches of missiles with a range exceeding 3,000 km, a speed of 950 km/h, and a warhead weight over 1,000 kg.
Flamingo Missile Scandal
| Indicator | Data (2024) |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2023 |
| Products | FP-1 Drone, Flamingo Missile |
| Defense Ministry Contracts | ₴13.2 billion (~$320 million) |
| Share of Drone Budget | ≈ 30 % |
| Produced Units | ~2,000 |
| Planned Output 2025 | 9,000 |
Why It Matters
If corruption in defense procurement remains unchecked, Ukraine risks:
- losing trust of Western partners;
- weakening its defense capability;
- undermining anti-corruption reforms;
- eroding public confidence during wartime.
Secrets of Fire Point
Conclusion: Transparency and accountability in military spending are as vital to Ukraine’s security as the weapons themselves.