Russia has begun construction of a major new military base near the city of Petrozavodsk in the Republic of Karelia, close to the Finnish border.

Axar.az reports, citing Yle, satellite images show that construction of the new garrison started this spring and has progressed rapidly. Around a dozen large barracks buildings, a headquarters structure, and a parade ground are already visible at the site.

Russian authorities reportedly plan to build more than 50 facilities, including barracks, apartment buildings, and sports grounds, in the Novaya Vilga area near Petrozavodsk.

Military analyst Marko Eklund told Yle that the base could accommodate a motorized rifle brigade or the main elements of a motorized rifle division, with an estimated strength of 4,000–6,000 troops. Including support units, the total military presence could eventually reach nearly 15,000 personnel.

The troops are expected to be part of Russia’s 44th Army Corps, established in Karelia in 2024.

In addition, several military units near the Finnish border have been expanded from brigades into divisions, a move that could potentially increase troop numbers severalfold.