Major Russian military factories targeted: emerging threat of kamikaze drones over strategic Pantsir-S1 systems
During the night of January 20 to 21, 2024, major fires broke out at two sites in Russia, reportedly caused by drone attacks. The locations targeted were a gas terminal in Ust-Luga and the Shcheglovsky Val factories in Tula, which sits approximately 112 miles south of Moscow. Could this represent a significant threat to the Russian military?
The RBK-Ukraina portal suggests that the Shcheglovsky Val factories are significant for the Russian arms industry. They produce a variety of weapons, including modules for BMP-2M infantry fighting vehicles and Pantsir-S1 short and medium-range air defense systems.
Attack on Szczegłowski Wał plants. What do they produce there?
The Pantsir-S1 system is considered one of the most advanced anti-aircraft systems in the world. It was introduced into the Russian military's equipment suite in the 90s. It has become a vital defensive tool used to protect Moscow and in the Ukraine conflict. Despite some losses over time, Russia continues to rely heavily on the Pantsir-S1 system, evidencing the critical nature of the Shcheglovsky Val factories. The strike on these facilities was likely calculated and may hold unpleasant repercussions for Russia. The RBK-Ukraina portal cites Ukrainian military intelligence sources, suggesting the attack was likely a coordinated effort by this particular service.
Examining the Pantsir-S1: A crucial weapon in the Russian arsenal
The Pantsir-S1 armament includes two dual-barrel 2A38M 30 mm automatic guns and 12 57E6 or 57E6-E anti-aircraft missiles. This arrangement allows the system to neutralize lightly-armored ground targets. However, the primary function of the Pantsir-S1 is to defend against enemy helicopters, planes, ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones.
The Pantsir-S1 can track targets up to a maximum range of about 12 miles and at altitudes up to around 9 miles. It can be mounted on a wheeled or tracked chassis for enhanced mobility.
Recent drone attacks on Russian soil
The drone attacks on the gas terminal in Ust-Luga and the Shcheglovsky Val factories in Tula are just the latest in a surge of similar incidents on Russian territory in recent weeks.
Previously, drone attacks have caused damage at several other locations, including the Pskov airport, where at least four Il-76 aircraft were damaged, and at the Soltsy airport, destroying a Tu-22M3 strategic bomber. Further drone incidents occurred at a fuel base in Petersburg and Moscow. The range of the drones used by the Ukrainians is cited as continually increasing, with reports suggesting a drone capable of flying up to 777 miles was used in the Petersburg attack.
