Ukrainian Drones Hit Multiple Russian Defense Plants Including Chuvashia, Tatarstan

Ukrainian drone strikes targeted several key Russian facilities involved in military production, including a plant producing components for Shahed drones and precision-guided weapons in Cheboksary, Chuvashia. The VNIIR-Progress plant, a major contractor for the Russian Defense Ministry known for producing Kometa antennas that enhance drone and guided bomb targeting, was hit, resulting in powerful explosions, fire, and temporary suspension of production to ensure employee safety. Ukrainian drones also attacked facilities in other Russian regions such as Nizhnekamsk and Yelabuga in Tatarstan, where local authorities reported no casualties or damage after intercepting the drones. Russia's Defense Ministry stated that 49 Ukrainian drones were intercepted overnight, while Ukraine reported downing dozens of Russian drones over its western Rivne region, prompting Poland to scramble fighter jets due to airspace threats. These coordinated attacks reflect Ukraine's ongoing efforts to degrade Russia's military manufacturing capabilities amid the conflict. Both Ukrainian and Russian sources emphasize the strategic significance of the targeted facilities and the broader impact on the Russian defense industry.