Satellite imagery confirms that Russia is setting up a new UAV launch site near the “Millerovo” military airbase in Russia’s Rostov region, which borders the temporarily occupied territory of the Luhansk region.
This was reported by the Defence Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence.
The configuration of the facility indicates that it is intended for preparing and launching jet-powered strike drones: most likely the “Geran-4” and “Geran-5”, as well as their modifications.
Preliminary estimates suggest that once construction is complete, the site will be able to support up to 100 launches a day. The actual intensity of its use will depend on a number of factors — the supply of ready-made drones, the availability of fuel and warheads for UAVs, the number of trained crews, the serviceability of equipment, and the tasks set by the aggressor.
By late August 2026, there were still no visible signs of active construction at the site. By mid-October, the Russians had already set up launch positions there and other infrastructure.
One explanation for the rapid pace of construction of the drone launch site may be the use of already proven technical solutions, as well as the concentration of resources on creating relatively simple launch infrastructure.
Building a new UAV launch facility just 3.5 kilometres from the airfield means that, to protect it, the Russians intend to use the same air defence systems that cover the airbase. Another advantage during operation of the drone launch site may be shared road, communications and logistics infrastructure, as well as existing technical support systems.
Russia Is Improving Jet-Powered Drones
Alongside the construction of the drone launch site, Russia continues to improve its jet-powered drones. In particular, the new modification of the “Geran-4” has received additional autonomous navigation capabilities, including an optical terrain image-matching system. A similar system is also being integrated into the “Geran-5” — the K5 version.
In addition, the Russians have equipped the “Geran-4” with a localised jet engine and a new warhead designed to strike bridge structures and power line pylons.
The aggressor’s new modifications of jet-powered drones are aimed at improving the accuracy of autonomous navigation and expanding the ability to destroy Ukrainian infrastructure, including civilian infrastructure.
- The new drone launch site complements Russia’s existing network of UAV launch facilities, which includes at least 12 permanent sites.
- The development of the facility in the Rostov region may be part of Russia’s preparations to increase the intensity of strikes on Ukrainian territory, particularly during the winter period.
- The capabilities of the “Geran-4” and “Geran-5” drones allow them to attack targets at distances of up to 770 and 950 kilometres respectively, posing a threat not only to Ukraine but also to neighbouring states.