# Ukraine missile defense and strike upgrades > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/ukraine-missile-defense-and-strike-upgrades > Updated: 2026-08-04T22:30:25.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2. In late July 2026, U.S. officials began evaluating a software modification for Ukrainian‑operated F‑16 fighters that would allow the integration of Extended Range Attack Munition (ERAM) missiles. The upgrade, which could be implemented within weeks, would give Ukraine a 500 km‑range cruise capability to strike high‑value Russian targets far behind the front line, bypassing the current restriction that limits ERAM to older Soviet‑era aircraft. A few days later, Ukrainian defence firm Fire Point announced the development of the FP‑7.x anti‑ballistic missile system, targeting a cost of under €1 million per interceptor and a production capacity of at least 2,000 units annually. The effort is part of the broader Freya project and involves collaboration with German contractor Diehl Defense. The push for a domestic solution follows a statement by the U.S. ambassador to NATO that a co‑production agreement for Patriot interceptors will not be finalized before winter, meaning a Patriot licence for Ukraine will be delayed. Nonetheless, the U.S. administration has authorised the use of ERAM cruise missiles with a 930‑km range for Ukrainian forces, expanding the arsenal available to counter Russian missile launchers. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-04: Ukraine pushes cheaper anti‑ballistic missile system as US delays Patriot license Ukraine's Fire Point develops a sub‑million‑euro anti‑ballistic missile, while the US says Patriot licences will be delayed but authorises ERAM missiles for Kyiv. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ukraine-pushes-cheaper-antiballistic-missile-system-as-us-delays-patriot-license ### 2026-07-31: US software upgrade could let Ukraine fire ERAM missiles from F‑16s within weeks The US may upgrade Ukrainian F‑16s to fire long‑range ERAM missiles, offering a quick way to hit Russian launchers as Ukraine struggles for Patriot air‑defence and other long‑range weapons. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-software-upgrade-could-let-ukraine-fire-eram-missiles-from-f16s-within-weeks --- Cite as: Ukraine missile defense and strike upgrades. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/ukraine-missile-defense-and-strike-upgrades