Russia has nearly completed a major new Russia drone attack base in just six weeks, according to satellite imagery analysed by Reuters and assessments from defence experts. The facility in the Rostov region could expand Moscow’s ability to launch jet-powered drones against Ukraine as the war continues.
The site, located near Millerovo in southwestern Russia, covered an empty field on August 31. By Wednesday, October 14, it had developed into a large military complex covering around 0.9 square kilometres, equivalent to approximately 126 football pitches. Images from Planet Labs and Airbus showed rapid construction during the period.
The new facility comes as Russia increases its use of jet-powered attack drones against Ukraine. These weapons can reportedly reach speeds of up to 600 kilometres per hour, making them more difficult to intercept. Ukrainian forces have struggled to counter the faster drones, prompting efforts to develop more effective defensive measures.
Mike Monnik, founder and chief executive of intelligence company DroneSec, said the site appeared capable of launching Russia’s Geran-4 and Geran-5 drone models. He identified eight launch platforms along the facility’s western edge. The new installation would add to Russia’s existing network of at least 11 fixed drone launch sites used in attacks on Ukraine.
Monnik said the facility appeared close to completion and could become operational within weeks. He suggested it might have the capacity to launch 100 or more jet-powered drones within 24 hours, depending on supplies and operational requirements. However, Russia generally launches its drones in smaller groups throughout the day.
The construction also raises concerns about NATO security as relations between Russia and Western countries remain strained. European governments have accused Moscow of increasing sabotage, drone incursions and cyberattacks. Monnik warned that expanding drone production, combined with limited counter-drone capabilities in some NATO countries, could create strategic vulnerabilities.
Rob Jordan of the London-based Royal United Services Institute said the concrete platforms and possible launch rails visible in the imagery were consistent with Russian Geran drone launch infrastructure. Reuters also reported that Russia’s use of jet-powered drones increased roughly six-fold over three months during the summer, according to Ukrainian military data. The new base lies about 3.5 kilometres from Millerovo air base, potentially complicating Ukrainian efforts to target it. Russia’s defence ministry had not immediately responded to Reuters’ request for comment.
