Long-range drones operated by Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) struck Radiozavod, a key facility in Penza, Russia, that is part of the Rostec state corporation and supports the Russian military-industrial complex, a source in the SBU told Kyiv Post.
The plant manufactures automatic combat control systems for various branches of the Russian military – air defense, artillery, and mobile command posts based on armored vehicles with advanced communication systems.
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Due to its role in arming Russia, the plant is under international sanctions.
“The SBU is systematically reducing Russia’s ability to produce for its army. The summer season of testing at high-tech enterprises of the Russian military-industrial complex is in full swing,” the source said.
At least 11 explosions were recorded during the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) raid, after which a large fire broke out. The new production complex and warehouses containing critical components were reportedly hit.
Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation under Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, confirmed that the plant in Penza was struck on Thursday, July 31. He added that the enterprise produces:
Automated combat control systems Radios for the Ground Forces, Airborne Forces, and Strategic Missile Forces Upgraded command vehicles based on armored platforms
According to Kovalenko, the plant is critical to Russia’s military command infrastructure, and its destruction could seriously impact military coordination.
Russian Telegram channels shared videos showing heavy black smoke visible across Penza. One clip shows a large fire and claims that “the plant is being bombed.”
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The local governor confirmed an attack and a fire at one of the enterprises, but claimed there were no casualties or infrastructure damage.
Authorities also reported temporary restrictions on mobile internet in the region – saying it was to support counter-drone systems.
Separately, a fire broke out in Kotelnikovo, Volgograd Region, after another night drone strike, according to the Astra Telegram channel. Governor Andrey Bocharov said drones attacked both transport and energy infrastructure.
Train traffic near the Tinguta station in the Svitloyarsky District was restricted. Footage from Kotelnikovo shows a large blaze following the UAV attack.