Russia adds air defense towers near Putin’s Valdai estate

Satellite imagery has revealed the construction of four additional air defense towers near Russian President Vladimir Putin’s Valdai retreat in the Novgorod region. One of the new structures is located approximately 400 meters from the main residential compound.

These elevated towers are designed to host short-range surface-to-air missile and anti-aircraft artillery systems, such as the Pantsir-S1. By raising radar and weaponry above the forest canopy, the installations aim to improve the detection and interception of low-altitude strike drones.

With these additions, the total number of specialized air defense towers identified around the Valdai estate has reached approximately 30. This expansion is part of a progressive effort to secure the presidential residence, situated between Moscow and St. Petersburg, against potential drone incursions.