Drones Strike Russian JSC ‘Monocrystal’ in Stavropol

In the early hours of August 12, drones targeted the Monocrystal plant in Stavropol, Russia, resulting in a fire.

According to Astra, this facility specializes in producing synthetic sapphire and is a key supplier of optoelectronic components for Russia’s military-industrial complex.

Synthetic sapphire is used in optical systems, protective elements of sensors and lasers, including military devices.

It is also included in components for the aerospace, instrument-making, and other high-tech industries, such as the military sector.

Drones attack Monocrystal JSC plant in Stavropol. Fire breaks out on facility grounds

The city’s mayor commented on the attack:
“Last night, a drone attack in Stavropol was repelled. The UAVs were suppressed by our electronic warfare systems. No one was injured. Windows were… pic.twitter.com/bgyEQNXpon

— ASTRA (@ASTRA_PRESS) August 12, 2025

During the night, local residents reported hearing at least five explosions and witnessing flashes in the sky above the city. A drone threat alert was promptly issued for the region.

Shortly afterward, photos and videos shared on social media showed smoke rising directly above the plant.

“Last night in Stavropol, a drone attack was successfully repelled. Our electronic warfare systems suppressed the drones, and thankfully, no one was injured. Some windows were damaged at a social facility. All emergency services are acting on the site. The drone danger alert remains in effect throughout the region,” the city’s mayor stated.

As Astra pointed out, in May 2025 local media reported that JSC ‘Monocrystal’ faced the risk of failing a state defense contract and potential prosecution for ‘embezzlement of millions,’ underscoring the company’s involvement in Russia’s state defense industry.

Earlier this morning, the Russian Ministry of Defence claimed that overnight, 22 Ukrainian drones had reportedly been shot down over the Rostov region, and 3 more over Stavropol Krai.

Last night, strike drones attacked the territory of the Arzamas Instrument-Building Plant, a facility specializing in the production of aviation and space components.

Located in the Nizhny Novgorod region, the plant was attacked during the night at approximately 3:55 a.m. on August 11, 2025.