CHEREPOVETS, Russia, — April 13, 2026 : Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) struck a major chemical production facility in the city of Cherepovets, located in Russia’s Vologda region, on the afternoon of April 13, targeting key ammonia production infrastructure after traveling more than 800 kilometers.
According to footage published by the analytical Telegram channel Exilenova+, fires and black smoke were observed at two of the plant’s three primary ammonia production units. The affected units—identified as Ammonia-1 and Ammonia-2—have a combined annual production capacity of approximately 900,000 tons. There were also reports indicating a possible strike on ammonia storage facilities associated with these units.
The targeted facility, known as Cherepovets-Azot and part of the PhosAgro group’s Apatit JSC complex, is one of Russia’s largest ammonia producers. The impacted units account for about 6 percent of the country’s total ammonia output, while the overall plant contributes roughly 10 percent of national production. In addition to ammonia, the broader complex produces ammonium nitrate, phosphorus-based fertilizers, and other chemical materials used in agriculture and industry.
Following the start of the full-scale invasion, protective measures had been implemented at the site, including the installation of a special metal structure designed to shield ammonia storage infrastructure from drone strikes.
Regional authorities confirmed the aerial attack but emphasized defensive actions. Vologda region governor Georgy Filimonov initially reported that two drones had been intercepted. In a subsequent update, he stated that Russian air defense forces had shot down a total of 13 drones approaching the facility.
The extent of operational disruption at the plant remains unclear. Russian authorities have not released information regarding casualties or the current status of production at the affected units.
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