Drone Attack Targets Air Defense Missile Production Facility in Izhevsk, Russia

On the morning of November 17, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) struck the Izhevsk Electromechanical Plant Kupol in Russia’s Udmurt Republic, according to Andrii Kovalenko, head of the Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council’s Center for Countering Disinformation.

The facility, known for producing air defense systems such as the Tor and Osa missile systems, as well as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), sustained damage in the incident.

Local residents reported a loud explosion around 7:00 a.m. local time, causing vibrations in nearby buildings and setting off car alarms. According to Alexander Brechalov, the head of Udmurtia, the attack damaged a factory workshop.

Videos circulating on social media show a flash and smoke plume in the area. Official reports suggest the drone did not hit its intended target directly but crashed into the site. Russian media indicated the attack may have targeted a section of the plant specializing in UAV production. These claims cannot be independently verified.

The Kupol plant plays a critical role in producing air defense systems and components for the Russian military. Its operations include the manufacturing of guided missiles, radar systems, and strike UAVs such as the “Harpy-A1.” The facility is located approximately 1,260 kilometers from the Ukrainian border, well within the range of certain long-range strike capabilities.