Ukrainian intelligence claims responsibility for drone attack on key Russian arms industry plant

The Novolipetsk Metallurgical Plant, in Lipetsk (Voronezh region), is a pivotal establishment within the Russian arms sector. It produces armor steel and essential parts for missile and drone constructions.

Drones struck the factory complex on Friday night, sparking a large fire. A few hours later, Ukrainian special services - GUR and SBU - conceded responsibility for the assault.

A UP source suggested both the cooling unit and coke battery were impaired, two critical elements of the technological cycle. Another source noted that this attack could potentially disrupt production capabilities for more than a month, based on preliminary estimations.

UP further disclosed footage from a drone launch that attacked the factory.

The UNIAN agency reported that Lipetsk's residents were alarmed by explosion noises on Friday night. Witnesses reported visible smoke around the Novolipetsk Metallurgical Combine.

The Lipetsk region's governor, Igor Artamonov, informed the public that the fire was contained to a single workshop. It was promptly extinguished with no reported injuries.

Ownership of the combine belongs to Vladimir Lisin, a Russian oligarch with noted connections to Vladimir Putin. According to Forbes Magazine, Lisin is one of Russia's top three wealthiest individuals.

Source: Ukrainian Truth / PAP / UNIAN