Explosions Hit Russian Defense Plant and Oil Refinery in Ulyanovsk and Perm
Explosions rocked two major Russian cities — Ulyanovsk and Perm — overnight on September 25, 2026, targeting a key defense industry facility and one of Russia's largest oil refineries. The attacks represent significant strikes deep inside Russian territory, hitting critical military-industrial and energy infrastructure far from the front lines.
In Ulyanovsk, the Iskra Plant was struck. The facility is part of the Almaz-Antey defense conglomerate, which is closely associated with the production of weapons systems and air defense equipment, including the S-300 and S-400 systems. The plant has been actively participating in Russia's import substitution programs for its military-industrial complex and aerospace sector. It recently inaugurated a new production line for digital processing units and microwave (SHF) modules used in radar systems, making it a particularly significant node in Russia's electronic warfare and air defense supply chain.
In Perm, the strike targeted the Perm Oil Refinery operated by Lukoil — one of Russia's largest petroleum processing facilities. The refinery processes more than 13 million tons of crude oil annually and serves as a critical hub in Russia's energy infrastructure and domestic fuel supply network.
Both targets carry significant strategic value. The Almaz-Antey concern is among Russia's most important defense conglomerates, manufacturing equipment that directly supports Russia's military campaign. Any disruption to the production of radar modules and air defense components could slow Russia's ability to replace or expand its air defense capabilities.
The Perm refinery, processing millions of tons of fuel annually, contributes substantially to Russia's capacity to sustain its military operations. Disruptions to major refineries could have cascading effects on military logistics and domestic fuel availability.
These strikes follow a pattern of Ukrainian long-range drone attacks targeting Russian military production facilities, fuel depots, and refineries. The attacks on Ulyanovsk and Perm demonstrate the reach and precision of Ukraine's drone capabilities, striking targets hundreds of kilometers from Ukrainian-controlled territory.
Russian authorities had not officially confirmed the extent of damage at the time of reporting. Ukrainian officials have not publicly claimed responsibility, as is typical for such deep-strike operations.