Shahed-Like Drones Hit Optical-Mechanical Plant in Azov

On the morning of July 4, Ukrainian strike drones targeted the Optical and Mechanical Plant in the city of Azov, the Rostov region.

This was confirmed by videos and reports circulating on social media.

The footage captures airplane-style drones flying over and diving toward the facility, followed by explosions and rising smoke. One of the drones featured a “Shahed-like” delta-wing design.

On social media, people immediately started saying that the Azov Optical and Mechanical Plant was likely the target of the strike.

Local authorities claimed the drone attack had reportedly been repelled. Reports indicate broken windows and doors in nearby houses, as well as damage to parked cars caused by the falling UAVs and their debris.

Rescuers are currently working at the site, and the evacuation of residents is underway.

The Russian Ministry of Defense stated that on the night of July 4, air defense forces had reportedly shot down 26 drones over the Rostov region.

Delta-wing drones are quite common; however, among the attacking forces targeting the aggressor country, they are used infrequently. Therefore, the exact model is currently unknown.

The JSC Azov Optical and Mechanical Plant, part of the Russian Tactical Missile Armament Corporation, manufactures electronic systems for precision artillery, missile, and anti-tank weaponry, as well as radar homing heads for tactical guided missiles.

In addition, the enterprise produces optical-mechanical and optoelectronic products, as well as equipment for the aggressor country’s aerospace sector.

This plant, which serves the Russian defense industry, is subject to sanctions imposed by the United States, Canada, Switzerland, the European Union, New Zealand, and Ukraine.

Among the identified foreign-made products listed in the War&Sanctions project by the Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence Ukraine are machinery from Taiwan, South Korea, Switzerland, and other countries.