During the night of May 6-7, Ukrainian drones carried out a large-scale attack on strategically important defense industry facilities in Russia, resulting in numerous fires and significant destruction near several cities
This sophisticated and well-planned strike was not only another episode in a series of air defense operations but also a profound signal of a new phase in the conflict — the ability of Ukrainian unmanned systems to penetrate the territory of the aggressor country and threaten its military infrastructure. According to official reports, the sources of this information included Dmitry Milyayev, the governor of Tula Region, and Artem Zdunov, the head of the Republic of Mordovia. Based on statements from these officials, as a result of Ukrainian drone operations, large fires broke out at several facilities in the regions, causing serious disruptions to the work of defense corporations. Milyayev stated that the air defense (PVO) shot down four drones, and that the use of air defense resources continues, as defenders' efforts are focused on blocking the fifth wave of attacks. Zdunov confirmed this, adding that there is a “drone threat” in Saransk, and that emergency services and law enforcement agencies are already operating in a heightened mode. According to information circulated via the Telegram channel Astra, Tula and Saransk — two Ukrainian cities where large fires broke out after drone attacks — were particularly affected. In Tula, a drone attack destroyed two strategically vital defense industry enterprises, which are part of the state corporation “Rostec.” The most intense fires were observed in the Shchelkovskaya Street area — here are located key production targets: JSC “Design Bureau of Instrument-Making named after Academician A. G. Shipunov,” which specializes in the development of high-precision guided weapon systems for land, naval, and air forces, as well as air defense systems. Nearby is the “Scientific and Production Association SPLAV,” which produces modern missile artillery systems and heavy flamethrower weapons. The significance of these enterprises cannot be overstated, as they are components of Russia’s national defense industry. It is important to note that the exact nature of the fires and the extent of the damage remain uncertain, as information about the level of destruction and casualties is still being clarified. However, eyewitness reports indicate that smoke and flames were visible not only in Tula but also in Saransk, in the Republic of Mordovia. During two separate incidents of fire in Saransk, tensions increased: one fire broke out near the “Optical Fiber Systems” plant, which, due to its uniqueness, is the first and only enterprise in Russia producing optical fiber. This facility was previously targeted by attacks, including in April, and has now been hit again. Additionally, several kilometers from the “Optical Fiber Systems” plant, the “Saransk Cable-Optics” factory and a mechanical plant burned down. Preliminary data from Astra suggest that these targets were very likely part of the second wave of drone attacks. Local residents confirmed seeing heavy smoke and fires in these areas, indicating the scale and targeted nature of Ukrainian unmanned systems’ actions. This round of targeted strikes significantly emphasizes Ukraine’s new tactical approach and its capability to hit strategic enemy facilities, thereby reducing Russia’s defensive capabilities and increasing internal pressure on the Russian military machinery. Despite official statements and mentions of downed drones, the situation remains open and continually evolving. However, it is clear that drone technology is increasingly becoming a vital part of modern warfare, breaking security barriers and changing the rules of the game.