In Russian Stavropol, drone attack reported: Monocrystal and Neptun plants targeted

Locals claimed that drones had attacked the Monocrystal and Neptun plants, where explosions were heard. Reports also mentioned smoke and fire at the sites where the drones had crashed.

In his channel, regional governor Vladimir Vladimirov wrote that "drone danger has been declared in the Stavropol region."

Monocrystal plant

The Monocrystal plant is one of the world’s largest producers of synthetic sapphire (corundum). It is part of the Energomera Group, with a minority stake held by Rosnano. More than 98% of its revenue comes from exports.

In early 2023, the company was sanctioned, and Energomera reported losses due to restrictions on importing special materials for sapphire polishing from the US, Japan, and the EU. The plant manufactures sapphire ingots, wafers, and glass for optoelectronics, with its products used in Russia’s military-industrial complex.

Neptun plant

The Neptun plant specializes in manufacturing control systems for both military and civilian ships. It is listed among Russia’s strategic enterprises. Its products are used on over 300 vessels of the Russian fleet, including nuclear cruisers, submarines, tankers, and Arctic-class ships. The plant supports critical infrastructure in Russia’s defense and shipbuilding sectors.

Explosions in Stavropol

On the morning of July 26, Russians on social media reported a drone attack in Stavropol. Explosions were heard, and Russian media and local authorities claimed there were strikes at industrial facilities.

Reports on social media said strikes hit the Signal plant, which is sanctioned by the EU, US, Ukraine, and Japan. Among other products, the enterprise manufactures electronic warfare systems for aircraft and ground facilities, including the Topol-E.