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New satellite imagery reveals that Russia is actively expanding its production capabilities at military factories involved in the manufacturing of tactical and strategic aircraft, combat helicopters, and cruise missiles. The construction at these defense industry plants suggests preparations for prolonged conflict, according to an investigation by the Ukrainian Skhemy/RFE/RL project.

One such facility is the Kazan Aviation Plant, which is part of Russia’s state-owned Rostec corporation. While it produces civilian airliners, it also builds and repairs strategic bombers like the Tu-160. Experts suggest that the recent construction of a large hangar complex at the Kazan plant could potentially be used for servicing strategic bombers.

Another factory increasing its capacity is located in Irkutsk, where the Su-30 fighter jet and its variants are manufactured. The satellite images indicate the construction of a new hangar and another building with runway access, suggesting an expansion of capabilities for maintenance and repairs of aircraft.

The Ural Civil Aviation Plant in Yekaterinburg, although primarily a civilian aviation plant, also repairs engines and gearboxes for military helicopters widely used by Russia in its invasion of Ukraine. A newly-built workshop at the Ural plant is likely intended for manufacturing aviation engines or providing additional energy to aircraft and helicopters.

The Dubna Machine-Building Plant, which hosts the Raduga Machine-Building Design Bureau, has seen the construction of a new building equipped with two helicopter landing pads. This facility is associated with Kronshtadt, a company tied to billionaire oligarch Vladimir Yevtushenkov and known for producing military drone models.

Several other military plants have been openly presented by Russian authorities, including a missile plant for Almaz-Antey Concern and the retrofitted Italmas shopping center, which now serves as a production site for Lancet loitering munitions.

The extensive expansion of military plants across Russia is seen by Ukrainian military experts as a sign of the Kremlin’s preparation for prolonged conflict. These developments indicate a significant increase in production capabilities for Russia’s military forces.

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