Russia built a base for drone attacks in the Rostov region in just six weeks, according to satellite images (Reuters)

Russia has almost completely built, in approximately six weeks, a new base for launching drones with jet engines in the Rostov region, near Ukraine, according to a Reuters analysis of satellite imagery and assessments by military experts.

The complex covers about 0.9 square kilometers, equivalent to approximately 126 football pitches, and is located 3.5 kilometers from Millerovo air base. Commercial imagery shows that the site was empty at the end of August, while eight platforms for rail-mounted launch ramps were built in just a few weeks. Rails had already been installed on at least two of them.

Experts cited by Reuters estimate that the base could be intended for Russia’s Gheran-4 and Gheran-5 drones and could become operational within weeks. Its capacity could reach 100 drones launched within 24 hours, depending on the equipment and targets.

The construction coincides with an approximately sixfold increase in the use of jet-powered drones in recent months. They can reach speeds of 600 kilometers per hour and are more difficult to intercept than slower models. Its location near an air base and under the protection of air defenses could make Ukrainian attacks more difficult. Analysts consider the rapid expansion a strategic challenge for Ukraine and NATO.