Drone Attack Hits Major Russian Sapphire, Naval Control Plants Stavropol

On the night of August 12, drones attacked the Russian city of Stavropol, targeting key industrial plants including the Monocrystal and Neptun facilities. Monocrystal is a leading global producer of synthetic sapphire used in high-tech industries such as optics, aerospace, and military applications, while Neptun manufactures control systems for over 300 vessels in the Russian Navy, including nuclear cruisers and submarines. The attacks caused multiple explosions, smoke, and fires, with local residents and authorities confirming the drone incursions and subsequent air defense responses. Stavropol Krai Governor Vladimir Vladimirov declared a drone danger in the region following the strikes. These attacks are part of ongoing Ukrainian drone operations aimed at weakening Russia's military-industrial capabilities, following previous strikes on strategic sites such as the Signal electronic warfare plant. The incidents highlight the vulnerability of Russia’s critical defense infrastructure to drone warfare amid the ongoing conflict.