Explosions Reported at Acron Chemical Plant in Veliky Novgorod

An explosion occurred at one of Russia’s largest chemical plants, PJSC Acron, in the city of Veliky Novgorod.

The outlet Astra reported on this.

According to local residents, explosions were heard across the city, and smoke and flames could be seen rising from the site.

PJSC Acron is one of the world’s largest producers of mineral fertilizers and industrial chemicals, with its main production facilities located in Veliky Novgorod.

The company produces about 6 million tons of commercial products annually, with ammonia, urea, and nitrogen fertilizers being among its key products.

The production of ammonium nitrate is of particular strategic importance, with output exceeding 2 million tons per year.

This product is used not only as an agricultural fertilizer but also as a key raw material for the production of industrial and military explosives.

Ammonium nitrate is used as a component in gunpowder, ammonite, and various types of detonation mixtures used by the Russian armed forces.

In addition, PJSC Acron produces nitric acid, which is essential for the production of RDX and TNT.

The enterprise has a powerful logistics network and its own fleet of more than 1,700 railway wagons, allowing it to quickly supply chemical raw materials to defense factories across Russia.

Because of its critical role in supporting the military-industrial complex, Ukraine’s Defense Forces have previously targeted the facility.

In December 2025, successful drone strikes caused fires and forced the shutdown of several workshops at the plant. The ultimate beneficiary of the PJSC Acron group, Vyacheslav Kantor, is under international sanctions due to his close ties with the Kremlin.