The former strategic object known as 'Samara Khladokombinat No. 2' is situated in the Samara region of Russia. The facility was originally constructed between 1959 and 1963, utilizing an existing gypsum mine located at a depth of 125 meters. Its geographic positioning in the Volga Federal District provided logistical advantages for both industrial and state reserve operations. The proximity to major rail lines and regional infrastructure facilitated efficient transportation and distribution of stored commodities.
Initially established for gypsum extraction, the site was repurposed in 1966 as a grain and flour storage facility under the Federal Agency for State Reserves (Rosrezerva). It remained operational in this capacity until September 2001. The underground granary was among the largest in Russia, serving as a critical node in the national food security system. Its integration with the neighboring 'Etalon' enterprise further enhanced its strategic importance, providing redundancy and resilience in the event of supply disruptions.
The facility encompasses a comprehensive array of infrastructure assets, including 28 distinct buildings and support structures. Key components include extensive underground warehouses totaling 126,000 m2, surface warehouses of 7,200 m2, and specialized operational warehouses equipped for containerized and bulk cargo handling. Supporting infrastructure comprises administrative offices, laboratories, workshops (air conditioning, electromechanical, mechanical), a sawmill, and multiple water supply and pumping stations. Additional amenities include a diesel locomotive depot, garages, artesian wells, a first-aid post, a club, and a canteen.
The site is equipped with two dedicated railway lines (dead ends), each 400 meters in length, facilitating the loading and unloading of products. Platforms and ramps are present for efficient transfer of goods, including bulk commodities. The presence of a pneumatic conveyor system and caissons for vertical movement of materials underscores the facility's capacity for high-volume, rapid throughput. The integration of service and fire reservoirs, as well as domestic and drinking water storage, supports sustained operations independent of external utilities.
The underground storage chambers, located at a depth of 125 meters with a height of 11 meters, provide stable environmental conditions ideal for long-term preservation of grain and flour. The facility includes air conditioning workshops and ventilation systems, ensuring controlled humidity and temperature levels. These features were critical in maintaining the quality and security of strategic food reserves. The total storage capacity included a dedicated warehouse for 3,200 tons of grain, supplemented by operational warehouses for flexible storage requirements.
Following its decommissioning in 2001, the site has been classified as an abandoned facility. While no longer active in state reserve operations, the infrastructure remains largely intact, offering potential for repurposing or reactivation if required. The scale and complexity of the site, combined with its robust construction, continue to make it a notable example of Cold War-era strategic reserve architecture in the Russian Federation.