MOSCOW / LONDON – August 17, 2026 – Russia has constructed a network of secret bases equipped to launch advanced jet-powered drones capable of striking deep into NATO territory, according to an investigation by The Telegraph.
Using satellite imagery, leaked documents and analysis from the drone intelligence firm DroneSec, the newspaper identified at least 10 newly built or expanded sites along Russia’s borders with Ukraine and Belarus. Analysts counted at least 59 new launch rails — mechanical tracks that allow fixed-wing drones to take off without a traditional runway.
About 20 of the rails appear longer than standard models, suggesting they are designed for Russia’s newest long-range attack drones. Some of the sites have already been used in recent large-scale assaults on Ukraine, including attacks on Kyiv. One base reportedly has storage capacity for more than 1,000 drones, and additional launch infrastructure is still under construction at several locations.
Russia has been upgrading its Shahed-type drones into faster jet-powered variants known as Geran-4 and Geran-5. These models are reported to carry warheads of up to 90 kilograms and have ranges that could allow them to reach targets nearly 1,000 kilometres away. From certain of the new bases, that range would place Warsaw and other locations in NATO countries within potential striking distance.
There is no public evidence that Russia is preparing an imminent attack on Poland or any other NATO member. However, the expansion of launch capacity close to the alliance’s borders has raised concerns among analysts about the long-term threat posed by the improved drones and the infrastructure supporting them.
The development comes as Russia continues to rely heavily on mass drone and missile attacks against Ukrainian cities and infrastructure, while Ukraine and its partners work to strengthen air defences.
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