Military bunkers

The missile base at Devínska Kobyla was built between 1979 and 1983 as part of Czechoslovakia’s air defence system. It operated under the designation Devínska Kobyla RTH (radio-technical reporting post) and served as a “peacetime” firing position for S-125 Neva anti-aircraft missiles. Its role was to function as a regular base in peacetime, while remaining deliberately visible to a potential enemy. In the event of armed conflict, the equipment would immediately be moved to one of the reserve firing positions, possibly after the first missiles had been launched or after an air raid. The base was operated by the 6th Anti-Aircraft Missile Unit of the 186th Anti-Aircraft Missile Brigade of the Czechoslovak People’s Army. Around 140 soldiers served at the base, and the site comprised approximately 20 structures, including barracks, stores, bunkers (missile silos), and garages. The unit remained here until 1997, when it was moved to Most pri Bratislave. The equipment stayed there until 2003, when the S-125M1 Neva systems were finally withdrawn from service in the Slovak Republic. After the unit left, the base was abandoned and gradually gave way to nature and vandalism. Much of the original equipment was destroyed or stolen. The reinforced-concrete missile silos and numerous structures of various sizes can still be seen here today. A modern tourist observation tower now stands on the summit of the hill, offering views across the surrounding area. There are plans to turn the bunker, which once served as a shelter for the radar unit, into the Air Defence Museum, dedicated to the history and operation of this missile base.