Russia sets up network of secret bases to launch jet-powered Shaheds across Europe — The Telegraph

Citing leaked documents and satellite imagery, the publication identified up to 10 new Russian bases featuring newly built launch facilities designed for modern one-way attack drones, specifically the Geran-4 and Geran-5 jet-powered Shahed variants. The Geran-5 carries a 90-kilogram warhead and boasts a declared operational range of approximately 1,000 kilometers.

The Telegraph noted that several of these bases are already actively used for strikes against Ukraine, where their proximity to the border facilitates mass air barrages aimed at penetrating Kyiv's air defense network. Seven of the ten identified bases were utilized in recent large-scale attacks on the Ukrainian capital. Concurrently, these same installations pose a long-term threat to multiple NATO member states situated within operational range.

Graphics published by The Telegraph showed that NATO nations located within the hypothetical 1,000-kilometer range of Geran-5 drones launched from sites in Russia and occupied Ukrainian territories include Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Finland, Romania, Bulgaria, Turkiye, as well as parts of Greece, Hungary, and Slovakia. Analysts warned that in the event of open conflict with Europe, Russia could leverage its drone infrastructure against European targets, placing capitals such as Warsaw directly in range.

Additionally, intelligence agencies do not rule out hybrid warfare scenarios.

"European and American intelligence officials believe Russia is considering armed provocations on Polish soil, missile or drone attacks against critical infrastructure, or false-flag operations designed to blame Ukraine," the report stated.

Investigators identified at least 59 newly installed rail-guided launchers across several bases along Russia's borders with Belarus and Ukraine. Key sites include Khalino military airfield in Kursk Oblast, as well as positions near the villages of Asovitsa and Aleshok in Bryansk Oblast, as confirmed by comparative satellite imagery spanning the summers of 2025 and 2026.

Several launch sites were integrated into repurposed military bases and civilian airfields, while additional platforms were established in rural agricultural areas.

Imagery analyzed by drone intelligence firm DroneSec revealed that approximately 20 of the newly installed sites feature extended launch rail lengths, confirming their capability to launch Russia's newest long-range strike drones.

The Telegraph noted that Moscow is upgrading its Shahed fleet rapidly, and operating these advanced variants from border sites puts Warsaw within operational striking distance.

"There is no indication that Russia is planning such an attack, but NATO commanders are preparing for future conflict," the article noted.

Satellite analysis also confirmed a major buildup in Russia's strike drone inventory. One base maintains storage capacity for over 1,000 drones simultaneously. Construction of additional launchers at other key installations indicates Moscow's intention to further expand its drone strike capabilities.

According to The Telegraph, supply pipelines to these bases originate from manufacturing plants across Russia, including the Alabuga Special Economic Zone — Russia's largest drone manufacturing hub, producing up to 6,000 units annually.

Mike Monnik, founder and chief executive officer of DroneSec, noted that the Kremlin has significantly expanded its drone network to strike Ukraine while keeping NATO allies under persistent threat.

The expansion of launch facilities demonstrates how Russia has scaled its capacity to launch larger drone volumes while deploying technologies that complicate interception, Monnik explained.

"Together, these two factors increase the total volume of uncrewed aerial systems Russia can direct at Ukraine, while compounding the challenges Ukrainian forces face in intercepting newer Russian drone models," Monnik concluded.