Russia building launch site for jet drones close to Ukraine border, media say
Photo: Russian Shahed-type drone (Getty Images)
Russia is expanding its network of facilities for launching jet-powered drones near the border to carry out strikes on Ukrainian territory, Business Insider reports.
According to satellite imagery and data from independent researchers, this involves the development of specialized infrastructure for the use of next-generation drones.
In particular, satellites have detected the construction of a site in Russia’s Oryol region, located about 160 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. Near the abandoned village of Tsimbulova, four launch installations were identified, two of which are about 85 meters long.
Experts say the construction of the extended structures began in late December 2025, while the shorter rails appeared in spring 2026, indicating a gradual adaptation of the base for new types of weapons.
Experts explain these changes by technical requirements: longer rails are needed to launch jet-powered drones, which require a much greater acceleration before takeoff. At the same time, the shorter installations seen in the images continue to be used to launch earlier drone models.
Evolution of Russian drones
The outlet notes that Russia’s Geran line evolved from the Geran-2 model, which is a copy of the Iranian Shahed-136. Newer versions — Geran-3, Geran-4, and Geran-5 — are equipped with jet engines. This allows them to reach significantly higher speeds and overcome air defense systems more effectively.
The Geran-5 model, in particular, is already more similar in shape to a cruise missile than to a classic delta-wing drone.
Kyle Glen, an analyst at the Center for Information Resilience, emphasized that the Tsimbulova base is one of two key sites capable of accommodating new types of drones.
Similar infrastructure had previously been set up by Russian forces at the airport in Donetsk, which they destroyed.
Japanese corporation Terra Drone has announced its entry into the Ukrainian market through a strategic partnership with developer Amazing Drones. Their joint work is aimed at improving interceptor drones capable of reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h.
In addition, the Armed Forces of Ukraine are receiving new serial weapons systems. Quantum Frontline Industries has already delivered the first batch of Linza drones, which have been tested in real combat conditions.
