Russia Builds Seven New Towers for Pantsir Systems Around Putin’s Residence

In March 2026, seven new towers equipped with Pantsir air defense systems were built around Vladimir Putin’s residence in Valdai.

Radio Liberty reported on this.

The total number of air defense systems around the residence has reached 27.

Satellite images show that construction of the seven towers began on the same day, March 17. Some are already equipped with air defense systems.

As with the Pantsir towers around Moscow, the systems in Valdai are arranged in two rings around the residence — an outer and an inner perimeter.

Journalists from Radio Liberty’s investigative unit previously reported that Alina Kabaeva, described as the Russian president’s wife, spends significant time at the Valdai residence.

A replica of the Kremlin office has also been built there for the Russian president.

The total number of air defense systems around the residence has reached 27.

Construction of the seven Pantsir towers began on the same day, March 17. Some are already equipped with air defense systems.

Earlier in March, reports claimed that Russia had expanded the air defense ring around Moscow, including by installing specialized towers to close coverage gaps.

Between May and September 2025, about 43 such towers were built around Moscow to host air defense systems.

These structures are used to deploy Pantsir air defense systems designed to counter Ukrainian drones and missiles.

Elevated platforms increase detection range and engagement capability against small, low-flying targets.