Recent satellite imagery and independent research indicate that Russia is enhancing its infrastructure for launching advanced drones near the Ukrainian border, aimed at facilitating further strikes on Ukrainian territory.
Notably, construction has been observed in the Oryol region, approximately 160 kilometers from the border with Ukraine. Four launch platforms have been identified near the abandoned village of Tsymbulova, two of which measure around 85 meters in length.
Experts report that the construction of these extended structures began in late December 2025, while shorter launch rails were introduced in the spring of 2026, suggesting a gradual adaptation of the base for new weaponry.
The modifications are attributed to technical requirements: the extended rails are necessary for launching jet-powered drones, which require significantly more acceleration before takeoff. Meanwhile, the shorter installations continue to be used for earlier drone models.
The evolution of Russian drones has been notable, with the Geran series transitioning from the Geran-2 model, a copy of the Iranian Shahed-136, to newer versions such as the Geran-3, Geran-4, and Geran-5, which are equipped with jet engines. This enhancement allows them to achieve higher speeds and more effectively evade air defense systems.
The Geran-5 model, in particular, has taken on a shape more reminiscent of a cruise missile than a traditional delta-wing drone.
Kyle Glenn, an analyst at the Center for Information Resilience, emphasizes that the base in Tsymbulova is one of two key sites capable of accommodating new types of drones. A similar infrastructure was previously established by Russian forces at a destroyed airport in Donetsk.
Russia is expanding its drone launch capabilities near the Ukrainian border, with new facilities identified in the Oryol region. These developments are part of a broader evolution in drone technology, enhancing Russia's operational capabilities against Ukraine.