Russia's Kupol military plant reportedly halts operations after Ukrainian drone strike
The Kupol plant in Russia’s Udmurt Republic ceased operations following a Ukrainian drone attack, independent media outlet Astra reported on June 2, citing emergency service sources.
Located more than 1,300 kilometers (800 miles) from the front line, the plant produces Tor and Osa air defense systems, as well as Harpy-type attack drones. It is under international sanctions as part of Russia’s defense-industrial complex.
Two drones hit their intended targets during the strike with one flying through the windows of one workshop, and the second hitting the roof of another, causing an explosion and fire. The resulting blaze led to the collapse of 1,300 square meters of roofing, Astra reported.
Four workshops were destroyed in the first building of the complex, reportedly halting operations in areas responsible for metalworking, microchip soldering, and drone production.
Udmurt Republic Governor Alexander Brechalov said on June 1 that three people were killed and 45 injured in the attack, including 35 hospitalizations and six in serious condition.
Astra earlier reported that no air raid siren was issued in Izhevsk ahead of the attack. Residents claimed to be unable to receive emergency alerts due to persistent mobile internet outages.
Ukraine’s General Staff confirmed the strike via its official Telegram channel, framing it as part of Kyiv’s campaign to degrade Russia’s defense-industrial base far from the front.
The plant was previously targeted in a Ukrainian drone strike on Nov. 17, 2024. That attack damaged equipment used to produce Tor missile systems and radar components.
Izhevsk, the capital of the Udmurt Republic, is known as a center of Russia’s arms manufacturing industry and the birthplace of the Kalashnikov rifle.
The latest attack underscores Ukraine’s capacity to strike deep into Russian territory.
The Kyiv IndependentAnna Fratsyvir