Ukraine’s «Flamingo» missile has demonstrated limited effectiveness in combat use. According to the outlet Strana.ua, citing OSINT analysts, only two confirmed hits were recorded out of 23 verified launches.
Video evidence captured 23 missile launches in total. Analysts estimate that six of them reached their intended areas, but just two struck the designated targets. In the remaining cases, the missiles were either intercepted or fell short, landing near their objectives.
The first recorded use dates back to August 31, 2025, targeting a site in Crimea. At least three missiles were launched, yet only one made it to the target area-and even that one missed, splashing down in the water nearby.
In November, no fewer than four missiles were fired at a thermal power plant in Oryol. Satellite imagery revealed no signs of damage or impact, suggesting that all FP-5 missiles involved were intercepted by Russian air defenses.
Another strike followed in February 2026, when Ukrainian forces launched at least six Flamingo cruise missiles at a distance exceeding 500 kilometers from the front line. Only one reached its target, hitting a bunker covering 1,200 square meters. Ukrainian analysts describe this as the sole successful strike.
Days later, another attempt targeted a military facility in Astrakhan Region, reportedly the Kapustin Yar range. Of four missiles launched, just one reached the vicinity. It was either intercepted on approach or fell near the perimeter; satellite images show a crater at the site.
Toward the end of February, Ukrainian forces attempted to hit an industrial facility in Votkinsk. Two out of three missiles reached the area, but neither struck the intended buildings, landing near production workshops instead. Analysts suggest they were either shot down at the last moment or deflected after hitting a lightning rod structure.
Notably, none of the cruise missiles exceeded the declared range of 3,000 kilometers. Experts conclude that the Flamingo system remains experimental and cannot yet be considered a reliable strike weapon.