(ZNAMENSK, ASTRAKHAN OBLAST) – The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine confirmed on Thursday that Ukrainian forces conducted a series of precision strikes during January 2026 against the Kapustin Yar test range in southern Russia. The operation utilised domestically produced FP-5 Flamingo cruise missiles to target a facility used by the Russian military for the pre-launch preparation of intermediate range ballistic missiles.
Military officials in Kyiv stated that the strikes specifically targeted a complex of hangar-type buildings at the site, which is located near the town of Znamensk in the Astrakhan Oblast. According to the report, at least one hangar sustained significant damage, while other structures within the territory were damaged to varying degrees. The Ukrainian military also noted that the intensity of the strike led to the evacuation of personnel from the site.
The Kapustin Yar facility is a critical hub for the Russian dictator’s missile programme and serves as the launch site for the Oreshnik missile system. Analysts suggest the strike was intended to disrupt the Russian ability to deploy these medium range weapons, which have been used in recent attacks against Ukrainian cities. While some initial satellite assessments showed buildings identified as an operations centre and a large hangar, definitive post-strike imagery has yet to be publicly released.
The FP-5 Flamingo is a key component of the growing long-term strategic reach of Ukraine. Each unit is estimated to cost approximately 11.5 million Ukrainian Hryvnia (£240,000 or $325,000). Despite earlier reports regarding the accuracy of this missile type, the successful hits on high-value targets at Kapustin Yar suggest significant improvements in the guidance systems of Ukrainian made weaponry.
