On the night of June 11, 2025, the city of Kotovsk in the Tambov region was subjected to a massive attack by Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles, the target of which, according to preliminary data, was the Tambov Gunpowder Plant, one of Russia's largest enterprises producing gunpowder and ammunition. Residents of the city reported a series of powerful explosions and air raid sirens, which caused a tense situation in the region. Air defense systems were activated, and the acting governor of the region, Yevgeny Pervyshov, confirmed the fact of the attack, stating that it was repelled without human casualties. However, a fire broke out on the territory of the plant, which was quickly extinguished.

At least 10-15 explosions were recorded in the skies above Kotovsk, indicating a large-scale attack attempt. Local residents noted the distinctive hum of drones, followed by loud bangs, presumably related to the air defense system. This is not the first time that the Tambov Gunpowder Plant, located in Kotovsk, has been targeted by Ukrainian forces. This is the fifth attack on the plant since November 2023, including incidents in January and July 2024, as well as in May 2025. The plant, founded in 1915, produces pyroxylin gunpowder for small arms, grenade launchers, and artillery ammunition, making it a key facility in the Russian military-industrial complex.

Governor Pervyshov, commenting on the incident, said:

"As a result of the fall of one of the downed UAVs, a fire broke out, which was extinguished by firefighting units. There were no casualties. Law enforcement agencies are working at the scene. The situation is under control. I am receiving all operational reports from the head of Kotovsk Alexey Plakhotnikov, the Ministry of Emergency Situations and law enforcement agencies."

According to Reuters, Ukrainian forces have significantly increased their use of kamikaze drones since 2023 to strike military infrastructure, including factories, oil depots and airfields.