ISW: Kremlin focuses on air defence to shield critical facilities from Ukrainian drones

Russia is intensifying efforts to protect its industrial facilities in border regions from Ukrainian drone strikes, with plans to enhance air defence capabilities. These actions come as the Russian government looks to secure critical infrastructure against increasing drone threats.

According to a report by the US-based think tank Institute for the Study of War (ISW), Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council, held a meeting on January 23 with members of the military-industrial commission from the Bryansk region, per Caliber.Az.

During the meeting, Medvedev discussed strategies to increase the production of Russian air defence systems and improve the protection of industrial and state storage facilities in the region.

Medvedev also visited the Bryansk chemical plant, a key facility fulfilling the Russian state defence order, which has remained operational despite several previous Ukrainian Armed Forces (AFU) drone strikes. The plant, an important part of Russia’s military-industrial base, has been a frequent target in the ongoing conflict.

The ISW highlighted that Ukrainian UAV attacks have been primarily focused on Russia's defence industrial base and infrastructure supporting the Russian military, with the Bryansk chemical plant being one of the most significant targets.

The report further suggested that the Kremlin is likely prioritizing air defence improvements to shield critical defence facilities, especially as the country's domestic economy continues to struggle under the pressure of the war.

By Tamilla Hasanova