Russia completes massive jet-drone launch complex near Rostov in six weeks
Satellite analysis shows Russia has built a large base for jet-powered attack drones in the Rostov region within six weeks, expanding its strike capability against Ukraine.
Satellite photos taken between late August and mid-October show a transformation of an empty field in Russia's southwestern Rostov region into a sprawling complex covering roughly 0.9 square kilometres. The base, located about 3.5 km from Millerovo air base, includes eight launch pads equipped with rails for the Geran-4 and Geran-5 jet-powered drones, and could field more than a hundred sorties in 24 hours. Analysts note the speed of construction demonstrates Russia's capacity to quickly field new offensive systems, coinciding with a six-fold rise in jet-drone usage this summer.
The site sits within the air-defence bubble of the nearby fighter regiment, complicating Ukrainian targeting efforts. Experts warn that the lack of comprehensive counter-drone measures in many NATO states creates a strategic gap. Russia's defence ministry has not commented on the installation or its broader drone programme.
Why it matters
The new base boosts Russia's ability to launch fast attack drones, raising the threat to Ukraine and exposing NATO's counter-drone gaps.
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