Russia builds massive drone launch base in months, capable of 100 launches per day
Russia's Geran-5 jet-powered drone (photo: Russian media)
In just a few months, Russia transformed an empty field in the Rostov region into a large-scale attack drone launch base, Business Insider reports.
According to satellite images from Planet Labs and Vantor, the field near the Millerovo military airfield was virtually empty on August 8. By September 12, Russian forces had built roads and cleared land for launchers and buildings.
By October 12, storage facilities and auxiliary buildings were clearly visible in the images. As of October 27, at least eight prepared launch sites had appeared at the location.
According to analyst Brady Africk, some of the infrastructure and ammunition storage facilities are still under construction, while the catapult launch rails have not yet been installed.
Threat posed by Geran-5 jet-powered drones
American experts note that the new facility is intended for the use of Geran-5 jet-powered drones. They are significantly faster than previous models, making them more difficult for Ukrainian interceptor drones to intercept and placing additional strain on the air defense system.
The base is reportedly expected to support up to 100 launches per day once all construction work is completed.
The most obvious tell is the two longer catapult launch rails for the drone installed at the edge of the site, said senior research fellow Spencer Faragasso.
Russian tactics and construction speed
Experts emphasize that the Kremlin is demonstrating its ability to rapidly build standardized infrastructure for large-scale attacks, focusing on expanding its network of such bases.
"What's concerning here is the fact that Russia was able to build this facility in such short order... If one base were to be attacked and destroyed by cruise missiles or ballistic missiles, another likely could be built quickly," Faragasso stressed.
Russian jet-powered drones are capable of reaching even the western regions of Ukraine. Their flight range depends on their technical specifications, fuel capacity, and onboard equipment.
In addition, Ukrainian air defenses are gradually improving their effectiveness in intercepting Russian jet-powered drones. The average interception rate for Geran-4 drones currently stands at nearly 60%.
