Drones attack synthetic polymers plant in Russia's Tula Oblast, causing fire – photo, videos
A series of explosions was heard in the town of Yefremov in Russia's Tula Oblast on the night of 23-24 December, followed by a fire near a local synthetic polymers plant.
Source: monitoring Telegram channels; NASA FIRMS satellite data
Details: Local residents said the explosions had begun at around 03:20, reporting at least 10 of them.
Videos shared on social media show a bright glow in the sky and a fire in the industrial area.
NASA FIRMS fire monitoring system also recorded thermal hotspots near the Efremov Synthetic Rubber Enterprise.
The Tula Oblast governor confirmed that an attack had taken place and that a fire had broken out at "one of the industrial facilities", but did not specify the extent of the damage.
The plant in Yefremov is one of Russia's largest producers of synthetic rubber. It is considered strategically important for Russia's defence industry, as it manufactures dual-use materials.
The synthetic rubbers and polymers produced at the facility are used to make rubber components for military equipment, including tyres for military lorries, wheeled armoured vehicles and aircraft.
Of particular importance are the polyisobutylene additives produced at the plant. These are key components in specialised fuel and lubricants and hydraulic fluids used in the engines of tanks, infantry fighting vehicles and artillery tractors. In addition, the plant's products are used in the manufacture of sealants, insulation materials for military electronics and anti-corrosion coatings for weapons.
Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!