Satellite images and mapping data show at least 12 Pantsir-S1 surface-to-air missile systems deployed near Russian President Vladimir Putin’s residence in Valdai, about 300 kilometers northwest of Moscow, Radio Free Europe reported.
According to the news outlet, Putin’s sons and his rumored partner, Alina Kabaeva, reside at the Valdai residence.
1/3 How many air defense towers does Putin need to cover his Valdai residence (the green pin), where his sons and their mother, Alina Kabaeva, are known to spend quite a lot of time? With @jembobineuse’s new findings, it’s now 12. https://t.co/frNlEpp6L2 https://t.co/IofpXBHAQ7 pic.twitter.com/TP0o8YsDkH
— Mark Krutov (@kromark) August 12, 2025
The current total of the 12 Pantsir-S1 deployed is only five times fewer than the 60 Pantsir units covering the entire Moscow metropolitan area, home to more than 20 million people.
According to the Telegram channel VChK-OGPU, some of the Valdai systems were redeployed from St. Petersburg.
The Pantsir-S1 is a mobile air defense system combining radar-guided missiles and 30mm cannons, effective against aircraft, drones, and missiles at ranges up to 30 kilometers.
Russia has not commented on the reported missile deployment.
