Category: Latest news

Russia Masses 137 Trucks at Engels-2 Strategic Bomber Base. Here’s What We Know

Nov 17, 2025 13:47 Updated Nov 18, 2025 16:11

2 min read

Authors: Ivan Khomenko
News Writer

A cluster of 137 unidentified military trucks is parked on the open apron next to an An-12 transport aircraft. (Source: Strategic Aviation of Russia)

A satellite review of Russia’s Engels-2 strategic aviation base shows more than 130 trucks positioned on an aircraft parking apron, raising questions about their purpose and possible connection to bomber operations.

According to the Telegram channel “Strategic Aviation of Russia,” the vehicles were recently recorded in a concentrated formation near an An-12 transport aircraft.

The channel reports that a total of 137 trucks were identified on the apron, though their role has not been confirmed.

A Russian Tu-95MS strategic bomber is parked near administrative buildings at the northern section of the airfield. (Source: Strategic Aviation of Russia)

Analysts cited by the channel suggest the vehicles could be linked to logistics operations supporting long-range aviation units stationed at the base, including the Tu-95MS and Tu-160 bombers.

Imagery published by Strategic Aviation of Russia also shows non-armed Tu-95MS aircraft parked at Engels-2, a key hub for Russia’s strategic bomber fleet. The base has been undergoing continuous expansion since October 2025.

Satellite data indicates that construction crews are pouring new concrete in the northern part of the airfield, following similar work completed on the southern perimeter in late September.

A Tu-95MS bomber is positioned on the taxiway at the central part of the runway infrastructure. (Source: Strategic Aviation of Russia)

Additional markings observed during recent earthworks suggest that the ongoing project includes the creation of 12 new parking positions. Plans to enlarge the base were first reported in May, with construction activity initially recorded on March 23.

Engels-2 is one of Russia’s primary strategic bomber locations, regularly used for operations involving Tu-95MS, Tu-160, and, according to earlier assessments, aircraft such as the Su-34 and Su-35. The expansion is likely intended to increase dispersal capacity and support a larger number of long-range strike platforms.

Earlier, on October 11, military observer AviVector reported that satellite images showed Russia preparing 12 new parking stands and additional taxiways at the Engels‑2 strategic bomber base, which hosts Tu‑95MS and Tu‑160 aircraft used in strikes against Ukraine.

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