The flag is called what it means. Participation of the Airborne Forces in the Great Patriotic War

Airborne troops Russia are designed to perform various combat missions behind enemy lines, destroy combat points, cover various units and many other tasks. Airborne divisions in peacetime often play the role of rapid reaction forces in the event of emergency situations requiring military intervention. The Russian Airborne Forces perform their tasks immediately after landing, for which helicopters or aircraft are used.

The history of the appearance of the airborne troops of Russia

The history of the Airborne Forces began at the end of 1930. It was then, on the basis of the 11th rifle division, that a fundamentally new type of detachment was created - the airborne landing force. This unit was the prototype of the first Soviet airborne unit. In 1932, this unit became known as the Special Purpose Aviation Brigade. With this name, the Airborne Forces units existed until 1938, in which they were renamed the 201st Airborne Brigade.

The first use of an assault force in a combat operation in the USSR took place in 1929 (after which it was decided to create such units). Then the Soviet Red Army soldiers were parachuted in the area of \u200b\u200bthe Tajik city of Garm, which was captured by a gang of Basmachi bandits who came to Tajikistan from abroad. Despite the superior number of the enemy, acting decisively and boldly, the Red Army completely defeated the gang.

Many argue whether this operation should be considered a full-fledged landing, since the Red Army detachment was landed after the plane landed, and was not parachuted. One way or another, the day of the Airborne Forces is not timed to this date, but is celebrated in honor of the first full-fledged landing of the group near the Klochkovo farm near Voronezh, which was carried out as part of military exercises.

In 1931, by special order number 18, an experienced airborne detachment was created, whose task was to find out the scope and purpose of the airborne troops. This freelance detachment consisted of 164 personnel and included:

One rifle company;
Several separate platoons (communications, sapper and a platoon of light vehicles);
Heavy bomber squadrons;
One corps aviation unit.

Already in 1932, all such units were deployed into special battalions, and by the end of 1933 there were 29 such battalions and brigades. The task of training aircraft instructors and developing special standards was entrusted to the Leningrad military district.

In the pre-war period, the landing troops were used by the high command to strike at the enemy's rear, to help soldiers who were surrounded, and so on. In the 30s, the Red Army took the practical training of paratroopers very seriously. In 1935, a total of 2,500 troops were landed on maneuvers, along with military equipment. The following year, the number of airborne troops was more than tripled, which made a huge impression on the military delegations of foreign states who were invited to the maneuvers.

The first real battle with the participation of Soviet paratroopers took place in 1939. Although this incident is described by Soviet historians as a common military conflict, Japanese historians consider it to be a real local war. In the battles for Khalkhin Gol, 212 airborne brigades took part. Since the use of a fundamentally new tactics of the paratroopers was a complete surprise for the Japanese, the Airborne Forces brilliantly proved what they are capable of.

Participation of the Airborne Forces in the Great Patriotic War

Before the start of World War II, all airborne brigades were deployed into corps. Each corps had more than 10,000 people, the weapons of which were the most advanced at the time. On September 4, 1941, all parts of the Airborne Forces were transferred to the direct subordination of the Commander of the Airborne Forces (the first commander of the Airborne Forces was Lieutenant General Glazunov, who remained in this position until 1943). After that, the following were formed:

10 airborne corps;
5 maneuverable airborne brigades of the Airborne Forces;
Spare airborne regiments;
Airborne School.

Before the beginning of the Second World War, the airborne troops were an independent branch of the troops that were capable of solving a wide range of tasks.

Airborne regiments were widely used in the counteroffensive, as well as in various combat operations, including assistance and support for other types of troops. Throughout the years of the Great Patriotic War, the Airborne Forces proved their effectiveness.

In 1944, the Airborne Forces were reorganized into the Guards Airborne Army. She became part of the long-range aviation. On December 18 of the same year, this army was renamed the 9th Guards Army, it included all the brigades, divisions and regiments of the Airborne Forces. At the same time, a separate directorate of the Airborne Forces was created, which was subordinate to the commander of the air force.

Airborne troops in the post-war period

In 1946, all brigades and divisions of the Airborne Forces were transferred to the ground forces. They were subordinate to the Ministry of Defense, being the reserve type of troops of the Supreme Commander.

In 1956 year of the Airborne Forces again had to take part in an armed skirmish. Together with other types of troops, the paratroopers were thrown into the suppression of the Hungarian uprising against the pro-Soviet regime.

In 1968, two airborne divisions took part in the events in Czechoslovakia, where they provided full support to all formations and units of this operation.

After the war, all units and brigades of the airborne troops received the latest models of firearms and many pieces of military equipment made specifically for the Airborne Forces. Over the years, samples of airborne equipment have been created:

Tracked armored vehicles BTR-D and BMD;
TPK and GAZ-66 vehicles;
Self-propelled guns ASU-57, ASU-85.

In addition, the most complex systems for parachute landing of all of the above equipment were created. Since the new technology needed large transport aircraft for landing, new models of large-fuselage aircraft were created that could carry out parachute landing of armored vehicles and vehicles.

The airborne forces of the USSR were the first in the world to receive their own armored vehicles, which were developed specifically for them. At all major exercises, troops were dropped along with armored vehicles, which constantly amazed the representatives of foreign states present at the exercises. The number of specialized transport aircraft capable of landing was so great that in just one combat sortie it was possible to drop all equipment and 75 percent of the personnel of an entire division.

In the fall of 1979, the 105th Airborne Division was disbanded. This division was trained to fight in the mountains and deserts, and was stationed in the Uzbek and Kirghiz SSR. In the same year, Soviet troops were brought into the territory of Afghanistan. Since the 105th division was disbanded, the 103rd division was sent instead, the personnel of which did not have the slightest idea and training for conducting hostilities in mountainous and desert areas. Numerous losses among the paratroopers showed what a huge mistake the command made by recklessly deciding to disband the 105th Airborne Division.

Airborne troops during the Afghan war

The following divisions and brigades of the Airborne Forces and airborne assault formations went through the Afghan war:

Airborne Division 103 (which was sent to Afghanistan instead of the disbanded 103 division);
56 OGRDSHBR (separate airborne assault brigade);
Parachute Regiment;
2 battalions of the DShB, which were part of the motorized rifle brigades.

In total Afghan war about 20 percent of the paratroopers participated. Due to the peculiarity of the relief of Afghanistan, the use of parachute landing in mountainous terrain was unjustified, therefore the delivery of paratroopers was carried out using the landing method. Deaf mountain areas were often inaccessible to armored vehicles, so the entire blow of the Afghan militants had to be taken over by the personnel of the Airborne Forces.

Despite the division of the Airborne Forces into airborne assault and airborne, all units had to act according to the same scheme, and they had to fight in an unfamiliar area, with the enemy, for whom these mountains were home.

About half of the airborne troops were dispersed across various outposts and control points in the country, which was to be done by other parts of the army. Although this constrained the movement of the enemy, it was unwise to misuse elite troops trained in a completely different manner of combat. The paratroopers had to perform the functions of ordinary motorized rifle units.

The largest operation with the participation of Soviet airborne units (after the operation during the Second World War) is considered the 5th Panjshir Operation, which was carried out from May to June 1982. During this operation, about 4,000 paratroopers of the 103rd Guards Airborne Division were landed from helicopters. In three days, Soviet troops (of which there were about 12,000, including paratroopers) almost completely established control over the Panjshir gorge, although the losses were huge.

Realizing that the special armored vehicles of the Airborne Forces are ineffective in Afghanistan, since most of the operations had to be performed together with motorized rifle battalions, the BMD-1 and BTR-D began to be systematically replaced with the standard equipment of motorized rifle units. Light armor and a low resource of lightweight equipment did not bring any advantages in the Afghan war. This replacement took place from 1982 to 1986. Along with this, the landing units were reinforced with artillery and tank units.

Air assault formations, their differences from paratrooper units

Along with the airborne units, the air force also had airborne assault units that were directly subordinate to the commanders of the military districts. Their difference consisted in the performance of various tasks, subordination and organizational structure. The uniform, armament, training of personnel did not differ in any way from the paratroopers.

The main reason for the creation of airborne assault formations in the second half of the 60s of the 20th century was the development of a new strategy and tactics for conducting a full-scale war with the alleged enemy.

This strategy was based on the use of massive airborne assaults behind enemy lines in order to disorganize the defense and introduce panic into the enemy's ranks. Since the army's fleet was by this time equipped with a sufficient number of transport helicopters, it became possible to carry out large-scale operations using large groups of paratroopers.

In the 80s, 14 brigades, 2 regiments and 20 battalions of airborne assault battalions were deployed throughout the USSR. One DShB brigade was assigned to one military district. The main difference between the airborne and airborne assault units was as follows:

Parachute formations were provided with specialized airborne equipment for 100 percent, and airborne assault formations had only 25 percent of the complement of such armored vehicles. This can be explained by the various combat missions that these formations were supposed to carry out;
Parts of the airborne troops were subordinate only directly to the command of the Airborne Forces, in contrast to the airborne assault units, which were subordinate to the command of the military districts. This was done for greater mobility and efficiency in case of need for a sudden drop of troops;
The assigned tasks of these formations also differed significantly from each other. The airborne assault units were to be used for operations in the immediate rear of the enemy or in the territory occupied by the front-line units of the enemy in order to panic and disrupt the enemy's plans with their actions, while the main parts of the army were to strike at him. Airborne subunits were intended to land deep behind enemy lines, and their landing was to be carried out by a non-stop method. At the same time, the military training of both formations was practically no different, although the supposed tasks of the airborne units were much more complicated;
The paratrooper units of the Airborne Forces have always been deployed to their full state and equipped with cars and armored vehicles by 100 percent. Many airborne assault brigades were incomplete and did not carry the title of "Guards". The only exception were three brigades, which were formed on the basis of parachute regiments and were called "Guards".

The difference between regiments and brigades consisted in the presence of only two battalions in the regiment. In addition, the composition of the regimental kit in the regiments was often reduced.

Disputes about whether there were soviet army parts special purpose, or this function was performed by the Airborne Forces. The fact is that in the USSR (as well as in modern Russia) there have never been separate special forces. Instead, there were special forces units of the GRU General Staff.

Although these parts have existed since 1950, their existence remained a secret until the late 1980s. Since the form of the special forces units did not differ in any way from the form of other units of the Airborne Forces, often not only the townsfolk did not know about their existence, but even the conscripts learned about it only at the time of admission to the personnel.

Since the main tasks of special-purpose units were reconnaissance and sabotage activities, they were united with the Airborne Forces only by uniform, airborne training of personnel and the possibility of using special-purpose units for operations behind enemy lines.

Vasily Filippovich Margelov - "father" of the Airborne Forces

A huge role in the development of the airborne forces, the development of the theory of their use and the development of weapons belongs to the commander of the Airborne Forces from 1954 to 1979 - Vasily Filippovich Margelov. It is in his honor that the Airborne Forces are jokingly called "Uncle Vasya's troops." Margelov laid the foundation for the positioning of the airborne troops as highly mobile units with high firepower and covered with reliable armor. It was this kind of troops that were supposed to deliver quick and unexpected strikes against the enemy in a nuclear war. At the same time, the task of the Airborne Forces in no case should have included the long-term retention of captured objects or positions, since in this case the landing would certainly be destroyed by regular units of the enemy army.

Under the influence of Margelov, special models of small arms were developed for the Airborne Forces units, allowing them to effectively fire even at the time of landing, special models of cars and armored vehicles, the creation of new transport aircraft intended for landing and armored vehicles.

It was on the initiative of Margelov that the special symbols of the Airborne Forces were created, familiar to all modern Russians - the vest and the blue beret, which are the pride of every paratrooper.

In the history of the airborne troops, there are several interesting facts that few know:

Specialized airborne units, which were the forerunners of the Airborne Forces, appeared during the Second World War. No other army in the world had such units at that time. The airborne army was supposed to carry out operations in the German rear. Seeing that the Soviet command created a fundamentally new type of troops, the Anglo-American command also created its own airborne army in 1944. However, this army did not manage to take part in hostilities during the Second World War;
During the Second World War, several tens of thousands of people who served in airborne units received many orders and medals of various degrees, and 12 people were awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union;
After the end of the Second World War, the airborne troops of the USSR were the most numerous among such units in the whole world. Moreover, according to the official version, the airborne troops of the Russian Federation are the most numerous in the whole world, to this day;
Soviet paratroopers are the only ones who managed to land in full combat gear at the North Pole, and this operation was carried out back in the late 40s;
Only in the practice of Soviet paratroopers was the landing from a height of many kilometers in combat vehicles.

Day of the Airborne Forces is the main holiday of the Russian airborne forces

August 2 is the day of the Russian airborne troops, or as it is also called - the day of the Airborne Forces. This holiday is celebrated on the basis of the decree of the President of the Russian Federation and is very popular among all paratroopers who have served or are serving in the airborne troops. On the day of the Airborne Forces, demonstrations, processions, concerts, sporting events and festive festivities are held.

Unfortunately, the day of the Airborne Forces is considered the most unpredictable and scandalous holiday in Russia. Often, paratroopers arrange riots, pogroms and fights. As a rule, these are those people who have long served in the army, but they want to diversify their civil life, therefore, on the day of the airborne troops, there is traditionally a strengthening of the patrol squads of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, which monitor order in in public places cities of Russia. IN last years there was a steady trend towards a decrease in the number of fights and pogroms on the day of the Airborne Forces. Paratroopers learn to celebrate their holiday in a civilized manner, because riots and pogroms dishonor the name of the defender of the Motherland.

Airborne flag and emblem

The flag of the Airborne Forces, along with the emblem, is the symbol of the Airborne Forces Russian Federation... The Airborne Forces emblem is of three types:

The small emblem of the Airborne Forces is a golden fiery grenada with wings;
The middle emblem of the Airborne Forces is a two-headed eagle with spread wings. He has a sword in one paw, and a grenada with wings in the other. The eagle's chest covers a shield with the image of St. George the Victorious slaying the dragon;
The large emblem of the Airborne Forces is a copy of the grenada on the small emblem, only it is in a heraldic shield, which is bordered by a round wreath of oak leaves, while the top of the wreath is decorated with the emblem Armed Forces RF.

The flag of the Russian Airborne Forces was established on June 14, 2004 by order of the Ministry of Defense. The flag of the airborne troops is a rectangular blue cloth. There is a green stripe at its bottom. The center of the flag of the airborne troops is decorated with the image of a golden parachute with a parachutist. Airplanes are on both sides of the parachute.

Despite all the difficulties that the Russian army experienced in the 90s, it managed to preserve the glorious traditions of the Airborne Forces, the structure of which today is an example for many armies of the world.

The airborne troops of the Russian Federation are a separate branch of the Russian armed forces, which is in the reserve of the Commander-in-Chief of the country and is directly subordinate to Commander of the Airborne Forces... At the moment, this position is held (since October 2016) by Colonel-General Serdyukov.

The purpose of the airborne troops is to operate behind enemy lines, carry out deep raids, seize important enemy targets, bridgeheads, disrupt the work of enemy communications and enemy command and control, and sabotage in its rear. The Airborne Forces were created primarily as an effective tool offensive war... To cover the enemy and actions in his rear, the Airborne Forces can use landing - both parachute and landing.

The airborne troops are rightfully considered the elite of the armed forces of the Russian Federation, in order to get into this type of troops, candidates must meet very high criteria. First of all, this concerns physical health and psychological stability. And this is natural: the paratroopers carry out their tasks behind enemy lines, without the support of their main forces, the supply of ammunition and the evacuation of the wounded.

Soviet Airborne Forces were created in the 30s, further development this type of troops was impetuous: by the beginning of the war, five airborne corps were deployed in the USSR, each numbering 10 thousand people. The USSR Airborne Forces played an important role in the victory over the Nazi invaders. The paratroopers actively participated in the Afghan war. The Russian Airborne Forces were officially created on May 12, 1992, they went through both Chechen campaigns, participated in the war with Georgia in 2008.

The Airborne Forces flag is a blue banner with a green stripe at the bottom. In its center there is an image of a golden open parachute and two planes of the same color. The flag was officially approved in 2004.

In addition to the flag, there is also the emblem of this type of troops. It is a fiery gold-colored grenada with two wings. There is also a medium and large airborne emblem. The middle emblem depicts a double-headed eagle with a crown on its head and a shield with St. George the Victorious in the center. In one paw, the eagle holds a sword, and in the other - the flaming grenada of the Airborne Forces. On the large emblem, the grenada is placed on a blue heraldic shield, framed by an oak wreath. There is a two-headed eagle in its upper part.

In addition to the emblem and flag of the Airborne Forces, there is also the motto of the Airborne Forces: "Nobody but us." The paratroopers even have their own heavenly patron - Saint Elijah.

The paratroopers' professional holiday is the Airborne Forces Day. It is celebrated on 2 August. On this day in 1930, the unit was first parachuted to carry out a combat mission. On August 2, Airborne Forces Day is celebrated not only in Russia, but also in Belarus, Ukraine and Kazakhstan.

The Russian airborne forces are in service as conventional types military equipmentand samples developed specifically for this type of troops, taking into account the specifics of its tasks.

It is difficult to name the exact number of the RF Airborne Forces, this information is secret. However, according to unofficial data received from the Russian Ministry of Defense, it is about 45 thousand soldiers. Foreign estimates of the size of this type of troops are somewhat more modest - 36 thousand people.

The history of the creation of the Airborne Forces

The homeland of the Airborne Forces is Soviet Union... It was in the USSR that the first airborne unit was created, this happened in 1930. First, a small detachment appeared, which was part of a regular rifle division. On August 2, the first parachute landing was successfully carried out during an exercise at a training ground near Voronezh.

However, the first use of parachute landing in military affairs occurred even earlier, in 1929. During the siege of the Tajik city of Garm by anti-Soviet rebels, a detachment of Red Army soldiers was dropped there by parachutes, which made it possible to unblock the settlement in the shortest possible time.

Two years later, a special purpose brigade was formed on the basis of the detachment, and in 1938 it was renamed the 201st airborne brigade. In 1932, by the decision of the Revolutionary Military Council, special aviation battalions were created, in 1933 their number reached 29 pieces. They were part of the Air Force, and their main task was to disorganize the enemy's rear and conduct sabotage.

It should be noted that the development of the landing troops in the Soviet Union was very stormy and rapid. No money was spared on them. In the 1930s, the country experienced a real parachute boom, with parachute diving towers standing at almost every stadium.

During the exercises of the Kiev Military District in 1935, a mass parachute landing was practiced for the first time. The following year, an even more massive landing was carried out in the Belarusian Military District. Foreign military observers invited to the exercise were amazed at the scale of the landings and the skill of Soviet paratroopers.

Before the start of the war, airborne corps were created in the USSR, each of them consisted of up to 10 thousand soldiers. In April 1941, by order of the Soviet military leadership, five airborne corps were deployed in the western regions of the country, after the German attack (in August 1941), the formation of five more airborne corps began. A few days before the German invasion (June 12), the Airborne Forces Directorate was created, and in September 1941, the paratrooper units were removed from the command of the front commanders. Each airborne corps was a very formidable force: in addition to excellently trained personnel, it was armed with artillery and light amphibious tanks.

In addition to the airborne corps, the Red Army also included mobile airborne brigades (five units), spare airborne regiments (five units) and educational establishmentswho trained the paratroopers.

Airborne Forces contributed significant contribution in victory over the Nazi invaders. Airborne units played an especially important role in the initial - the most difficult - period of the war. Despite the fact that the airborne troops are designed for offensive operations and have a minimum of heavy weapons (compared to other types of troops), at the beginning of the war, paratroopers were often used to "patch holes": in defense, to eliminate sudden German breakthroughs, to unblocking surrounded soviet troops... Because of this practice, the paratroopers suffered unreasonably high losses, and the effectiveness of their use was reduced. Often, the preparation of amphibious operations left much to be desired.

The airborne units took part in the defense of Moscow, as well as in the subsequent counteroffensive. The 4th Airborne Corps in the winter of 1942 was parachuted during the Vyazemskaya landing operation. In 1943, during the crossing of the Dnieper, two airborne brigades were thrown into the rear of the enemy. Another major amphibious operation was carried out in Manchuria in August 1945. In its course, 4 thousand soldiers were parachuted by landing method.

In October 1944, the Soviet Airborne Forces were transformed into a separate Guards Army of the Airborne Forces, and in December of the same year - into the 9th Guards Army. Airborne divisions turned into ordinary rifle divisions... At the end of the war, the paratroopers took part in the liberation of Budapest, Prague, Vienna. The 9th Guards Army ended its glorious combat path on the Elbe.

In 1946, the airborne units were incorporated into the Land Forces and were subordinate to the country's defense minister.

In 1956, Soviet paratroopers took part in suppressing the Hungarian uprising, and in the mid-60s they played a key role in pacifying another country that wanted to leave the socialist camp - Czechoslovakia.

After the end of the war, the world entered an era of confrontation between two superpowers - the USSR and the USA. The plans of the Soviet leadership were by no means limited only to defense, so the airborne troops developed especially actively during this period. The emphasis was placed on increasing the firepower of the Airborne Forces. For this, a number of airborne equipment was developed, including armored vehicles, artillery systems, and road transport. The fleet of military transport aviation was significantly increased. In the 70s, wide-body heavy-duty transport aircraft were created, which made it possible to transport not only personnel, but also heavy military equipment. By the end of the 80s, the state of the military transport aviation of the USSR was such that it could provide almost 75% of the airborne forces with a parachute drop in one sortie.

At the end of the 60s, a new type of units that are part of the Airborne Forces was created - airborne assault units (DShCH). They differed little from the rest of the Airborne Forces, but obeyed the command of groups of troops, armies or corps. The reason for the creation of the DShCH was a change in the tactical plans that Soviet strategists were preparing in case of a full-scale war. After the start of the conflict, the enemy's defenses were planned to be “broken” with the help of massed assault forces landed in the immediate rear of the enemy.

In the mid-80s, the USSR Ground Forces included 14 airborne assault brigades, 20 battalions and 22 separate airborne assault regiments.

In 1979, the war in Afghanistan began, and the Soviet Airborne Forces took an active part in it. During this conflict, the paratroopers had to engage in counter-guerrilla warfare, of course, there was no question of any parachute landing. The delivery of personnel to the place of combat operations took place with the help of armored vehicles or vehicles, less often landing method was used from helicopters.

Paratroopers were often used to guard the numerous outposts and roadblocks scattered throughout the country. Usually, the airborne units performed tasks more suitable for motorized rifle units.

It should be noted that in Afghanistan, the paratroopers used military equipment of the ground forces, which was more suitable for the harsh conditions of this country than their own. Also, parts of the Airborne Forces in Afghanistan were reinforced with additional artillery and tank units.

After the collapse of the USSR, the division of its armed forces began. These processes also affected the paratroopers. It was only by 1992 that the Airborne Forces were finally divided, after which the Russian Airborne Forces were created. They included all the units that were on the territory of the RSFSR, as well as part of the divisions and brigades that were previously located in other republics of the USSR.

In 1993, the Russian Airborne Forces included six divisions, six airborne assault brigades and two regiments. In 1994, in Kubinka near Moscow, on the basis of two battalions, the 45th Airborne Special Forces Regiment was created (the so-called Airborne Special Forces).

The 90s became a serious test for the Russian airborne troops (as well as for the entire army). The number of the Airborne Forces was seriously reduced, some of the units were disbanded, the paratroopers became subordinate to the Ground Forces. Army aviation was transferred to the Air Force, which significantly impaired the mobility of the Airborne Forces.

The airborne troops of the Russian Federation took part in both Chechen campaigns, in 2008 the paratroopers were involved in the Ossetian conflict. The Airborne Forces have repeatedly taken part in peacekeeping operations (for example, in the former Yugoslavia). Airborne units regularly participate in international exercises, they guard Russian military bases abroad (Kyrgyzstan).

The structure and composition of the airborne troops of the Russian Federation

At present, the RF Airborne Forces consist of command structures, combat units and units, as well as various institutions that provide them.

Structurally, the Airborne Forces has three main components:

Airborne. It includes all the airborne units.
Airborne assault. Consists of airborne assault units.
Mountain. It includes airborne assault units intended for operations in mountainous areas.

At the moment, the Russian Airborne Forces includes four divisions, as well as separate brigades and regiments. Airborne troops, composition:

76th Guards Airborne Assault Division, station Pskov.
98th Guards airborne division, located in Ivanovo.
7th Guards Airborne Assault (Mountain) Division, stationed in Novorossiysk.
106th Guards Airborne Division - Tula.

Airborne regiments and brigades:

11th Separate Guards Airborne Brigade, stationed in the city of Ulan-Ude.
45th separate guards brigade special purpose (Moscow).
56th separate guards airborne assault brigade. The place of deployment is the city of Kamyshin.
31st separate guards airborne assault brigade. Located in Ulyanovsk.
83rd Separate Guards Airborne Brigade. Location - Ussuriisk.
38th Separate Guards Signal Regiment of the Airborne Forces. Located in the Moscow region, in the village of Medvezhye Ozera.

In 2013, the creation of the 345th Airborne Assault Brigade in Voronezh was officially announced, but then the formation of the unit was postponed to a later date (2017 or 2018). There is information that in 2018 an airborne assault battalion will be deployed on the territory of the Crimean peninsula, and in the future a regiment of the 7th airborne assault division, which is currently deployed in Novorossiysk, will be formed on its base.

In addition to combat units, the Russian Airborne Forces also include educational institutions that train personnel for the Airborne Forces. The main and most famous of them is the Ryazan Higher Airborne command school, which also trains officers for the RF Airborne Forces. Also, the structure of this kind of troops includes two Suvorov schools (in Tula and Ulyanovsk), Omsk cadet corps and the 242nd training center located in Omsk.

Armament and equipment of the Russian Airborne Forces

The airborne troops of the Russian Federation use both general military equipment and samples that were created specifically for this type of troops. Most of the types of weapons and military equipment of the Airborne Forces were developed and manufactured in the Soviet period, but there are also more modern models created in modern times.

The most massive examples of airborne armored vehicles are currently BMD-1 (about 100 units) and BMD-2M (about 1,000 units) airborne combat vehicles. Both of these vehicles were produced in the Soviet Union (BMD-1 in 1968, BMD-2 in 1985). They can be used for landing both by landing and parachuting. These are reliable machines that have been tested in many armed conflicts, but they are clearly outdated, both morally and physically. Even representatives of top management russian army., which was put into service in 2004. However, its production is slow, today it is armed with 30 units of BMP-4 and 12 units of BMP-4M.

Also in service with the airborne forces there are a small number of armored personnel carriers BTR-82A and BTR-82AM (12 pieces), as well as the Soviet BTR-80. The most numerous armored personnel carrier currently used by the RF Airborne Forces is the tracked BTR-D (more than 700 units). It entered service in 1974 and is quite outdated. It should be replaced by the BTR-MDM "Rakushka", but so far its production is moving very slowly: today in combat units from 12 to 30 (according to various sources) "Rakushek".

The anti-tank armament of the Airborne Forces is represented by the Sprut-SD self-propelled anti-tank gun 2S25 (36 units), the BTR-RD “Robot” self-propelled anti-tank complexes (more than 100 units) and a wide range of various ATGMs: Metis, Fagot, Konkurs and "Cornet".

The Russian Airborne Forces are armed with self-propelled and towed artillery: self-propelled guns "Nona" (250 units and several hundred more in storage), howitzer D-30 (150 units), and mortars "Nona-M1" (50 units) and "Tray" (150 units).

The air defense means of the Airborne Forces consist of portable missile systems (various modifications of the Igla and Verba), as well as the Strela short-range air defense system. Special attention should be paid to the newest Russian MANPADS "Verba", which was only recently put into service and now it has been put into trial operation only in several units of the RF Armed Forces, including the 98th Airborne Division.

The Airborne Forces also operate self-propelled anti-aircraft artillery mounts BTR-ZD "Skrezhet" (150 units) of Soviet production and towed anti-aircraft artillery mounts ZU-23-2.

In recent years, the Airborne Forces began to receive new samples of automotive equipment, of which the Tiger armored car, the A-1 Snowmobile all-terrain vehicle and the KAMAZ-43501 truck should be noted.

The airborne troops are sufficiently equipped with communication, control and electronic warfare systems. Among them, it should be noted modern Russian developments: the electronic warfare systems "Leer-2" and "Leer-3", "Infauna", the control system of the air defense complexes "Barnaul", the automated command and control systems "Andromeda-D" and "Polet-K".

The Airborne Forces are armed with a wide range of small arms, among which there are both Soviet models and newer Russian designs. The latter include the Yarygin pistol, PMM and PSS silent pistol. The main personal weapon of the fighters remains the Soviet AK-74 assault rifle, however, supplies to the troops of a more advanced AK-74M have already begun. To carry out sabotage missions, paratroopers can use the silent machine "Val".

The Airborne Forces are armed with machine guns "Pecheneg" (Russia) and NSV (USSR), as well as a large-caliber machine gun "Kord" (Russia).

Among the sniper systems it should be noted SV-98 (Russia) and Vintorez (USSR), as well as the Austrian sniper rifle Steyr SSG 04, which was purchased for the needs of the special forces of the Airborne Forces. The paratroopers are armed with automatic grenade launchers AGS-17 "Flame" and AGS-30, as well as an easel grenade launcher SPG-9 "Kopye". In addition, a number of hand-held anti-tank grenade launchers, both Soviet and Russian, are used.

To conduct aerial reconnaissance and adjust artillery fire, the Airborne Forces use Russian-made Orlan-10 unmanned aerial vehicles. The exact number of "Eagles" in service with the Airborne Forces is unknown.

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The airborne troops are a branch of the armed forces whose main purpose is to conduct combat operations behind enemy lines. The Airborne Forces are rapid reaction forces, designed primarily for landing behind enemy lines and for rapid deployment in remote areas. The main method of delivery of the Airborne Forces is parachute landing. Airborne troops in different countries are called differently: winged infantry, airmobile troops, airborne infantry, rapid reaction troops, commando and others.

The first use of troops in military history happened in the spring of 1929. When the armed Red Army men were landed from the air, defeating a gang that had invaded Tajikistan from abroad. Nevertheless, the day of the Airborne Forces in our country is considered August 2, in honor of the first parachute landing at the exercises of the Moscow Military District, which took place on August 2, 1930 near Voronezh. It was this experiment that helped military theorists see the prospect of the benefits of using airborne troops.

Soon, the Airborne Forces became the elite of the Armed Forces. The paratroopers have participated in almost all military conflicts and combat operations over the past 80 years. Throughout all these years, such qualities as strength, courage and courage remained unchanged. Those who served in the airborne forces are considered to be people of special temper, who throughout their lives remain faithful to the famous motto of the Airborne Forces "Nobody but us!"

On February 12, 1931, the "Parachutist" badge was approved. The first sleeve insignia appeared somewhat later. On July 26, 1969, the sky blue beret was officially introduced. For soldiers and sergeants, a star was attached to the front of the berets, and for officers - an Air Force badge.

On May 6, 2005, the emblem of the Airborne Forces was established.

The small emblem of the Airborne Forces is an image of a flaming golden grenada with wings.

The image of a two-headed golden eagle with outstretched wings, which holds a flaming silver grenada with wings in its left paw, and a silver sword in its right. On the chest of the eagle there is a red triangular shield with a stem, extended to the bottom, and in the field of the shield there is a horseman striking the dragon with a spear.

The coat of arms (large emblem) of the Airborne Forces is an image of a flaming golden grenada in a blue round heraldic shield, which is framed with an oak golden wreath.

The Airborne Forces flag was established by a special order of the Minister of Defense of the Russian Federation on May 6, 2005. The flag of the Airborne Forces is a double-sided rectangular cloth sky blue with a green stripe at the bottom. In the very center of the cloth, there is a figure of a parachutist with an open golden parachute, on both sides of which are depicted aircraft. The ratio of moisture length to its width is 3: 2.

From the point of view of heraldry, the blue color of the Airborne Forces flag, as well as the blue beret, symbolizes the sky, the green stripe - the forest, the paratrooper with the planes - the symbols of the Airborne Forces.

The flag of the RF Airborne Forces is installed on the headquarters buildings of the corresponding military units on holidays. On days of mourning, the Airborne Forces flag is lowered to half its normal height.

The most popular, massive and demanded among the absolute majority of paratroopers is the Airborne Forces flag with the motto "Nobody but us." It is believed that this flag retains the energy connection of almost every veteran with his service in the Airborne Forces.

The history of the famous slogan is full of feat, drama and slogan. In 1941, the invaders practically surrounded Moscow. The headquarters of the command was organized in Samara.

The most pessimistic forecasts suggested the possibility of surrendering the capital to the enemies, but through incredible efforts, human heroism and bold decisions, the enemy was stopped at the approaches to Moscow.

To develop the success, a decision was made to attack the enemy. To implement this plan, all imaginable and inconceivable material and human resources were involved. But the offensive was drowned in blood within a month. And then the command made a decision to transfer airborne troops to the rear of the enemy. They had to land behind enemy lines, cut off the road to Smolensk, and eventually encircle the entire enemy army. Each of those paratroopers was ready to go to their death, each of them accomplished a real feat.

It was then, in the harsh December 1491, in fierce battles deep behind enemy lines, that the great slogan of the Airborne Forces "Nobody but us" was born.

In the history of the Airborne Forces, this operation is considered the most dramatic and striking. The paratroopers managed to destroy more than 15 thousand selected German soldiers. Therefore, to this day, the Airborne Forces are so careful and anxious about their motto and flag.

Today buy airborne flagcan be found in almost any Voentorg and a specialized gift shop. In addition, almost all the symbols of the Airborne Forces, including flags, are available on the online shelves of most online stores specializing in military topics.

Well, you can see almost all possible variations of this flag on the streets of any, even the smallest city of our huge country on August 2 every year.

It is on this day that hundreds of flags of the Airborne Forces paint cities in sky blue. Many flags are placed on the balconies of houses, cars, motorcycles and so on. Hundreds of thousands of paratroopers all over the country dress in blue berets, vests, take the Airborne Forces flag and take to the streets, vigorously celebrating this holiday.

Among all types of Russian troops, the celebration of the Airborne Forces Day is considered the most emotional. And above all, this is due to the rich and rich history of the Airborne Forces... Everyone who served in the Airborne Forces keeps memories in his heart about the period when he served in the elite Airborne Forces throughout his life. Even a simple photo in the background airborne flag is an honor for any paratrooper. A blue beret, a vest - for the paratroopers this is more than an established form of clothing.

Symbolism plays a huge role in life, especially now. After all, it is by people who judge the quality of goods or services. But this is not an innovation of advertisers. Already many centuries ago, noble families and government organizations had their own emblems, shields and flags. Today we will tell the story, the origin and simply interesting Factsassociated with the coat of arms of the Airborne Forces.

History of the emblem

The coat of arms of the Airborne Forces, or rather, the emblem was created relatively recently, in 2005. From that moment on, all official documentation, as well as paratroopers' paraphernalia, began to be decorated with a golden grenada with wings. This symbol was chosen for a reason. The paratroopers are considered elite troops precisely because they have a great responsibility on their shoulders, their work is associated with great risk. Many military men who have linked life with this profession do not live to see retirement, but ascend to heaven much earlier. In order to perpetuate the memory of all those who died in battles, as well as to capaciously express the whole essence of the work of the paratroopers, wings were attached to the grenada.

In addition to the main emblem, which is considered small, the Airborne Forces have two more variations of the coat of arms. The middle one is very similar to the Russian coat of arms. It depicts a two-headed eagle. In one paw he holds a golden grenada, and in the other a sword. An uninitiated person may say: "What is the connection between the landing troops and the sword?" In fact, like many other symbols, there is an allegory here. The sword is a symbol of strength and courage. In the center of the coat of arms there is a red shield on which Gregory the Victorious pierces a serpent with a spear. This point does not need any special explanation. The Airborne Forces is a part and as a sign of this part of the coat of arms was simply copied.

The large emblem is a small and medium version enriched with oak branches. The winged grenada is placed on a blue shield that symbolizes the sky. In the upper part of this emblem, the second coat of arms of the Airborne Forces is placed - a double-headed eagle with George the Victorious in the center. In this version, oak branches are an allegory of the Greek laurel, but only in the Russian interpretation. Oak is the same national Russian tree as birch. And since it is considered one of the strongest in its category, it is not surprising that the elite troops chose these leaves as their symbolism.

Flag history

The flag has the same symbolic meaning as the coat of arms of the Airborne Forces. It depicts a golden parachutist with an open parachute. Two planes are visible on its sides. This logo appeared before the official emblem, in 2004. The flag is split into two unequal parts. 2/3 of the flag from above is occupied by a large blue stripe. She symbolizes the sky. It is in this part that the parachutist with the planes is located. The second part of the flag is green. She symbolizes a pure land. The entire flag is made in rather bright colors, which means a peaceful sky and earth, which the soldiers of the Airborne Forces are called upon to guard.

Where is used

The coat of arms of the Russian Airborne Forces can be seen everywhere on August 2. Even in the smallest cities of our homeland or in urban settlements, former and current paratroopers celebrate their holiday. The flag of the Airborne Forces is displayed in all specialized military units not only on the occasion of their own holiday, but also during official Russian events, it is officially raised on the flagpole. During mourning events, for example, in memory of the fallen paratroopers, the flag is lowered.

Now it is also fashionable to decorate private houses with various symbols. Therefore, successful retired paratroopers in memory of their past service often use the flag or coat of arms of the Airborne Forces to decorate their homes. They put it on a flagpole on the roof or hang it at the front door. Also, symbolism can decorate the central gate.

How symbolism is used

The flag of the Russian Airborne Forces, the symbols of this military institution and various paraphernalia are now freely available. Anyone can purchase it at a military store. Therefore, not a single August 2 passes without automobile processions, from the windows of which the flags of the Airborne Forces peep out, fluttering in the wind. Blue berets on this day often adorn the heads of all paratroopers and even those people who have only an indirect relationship to the flight troops.

The coat of arms of the Airborne Forces in the vector is freely available. Therefore, it is not surprising that with the advent of the holiday, and more and more often, people related to the landing troops are gluing stickers with symbols to their cars. It can be a flag, coat of arms, or just a picture with an inscription. For example, a parachute and the slogan "Nobody but us", which we will talk about a little later. It is difficult to say whether such a manifestation of one's devotion is necessary, but in any case, to some extent, this develops patriotism towards Russia as a whole.

VDV slogan

Description of the flag of the Russian Airborne Forces will be incomplete if you do not talk about the motto of the flight guard. The airborne troops are one of the elite units of the army, so men with excellent health and good physical characteristics are taken there. The service is difficult, and in the event of a military alarm, the demand from this unit will be the greatest. It has always been that way, since we first went on a mission. It was in the first operation, which took place in 1941, that the motto "Nobody but us" was born in the heat of hostilities. It very succinctly reflects not only the self-confidence of the paratroopers, but also the real situation. There were, are, and, unfortunately, there will be military actions in which it is impossible to do without flight troops. They are very helpful in operations where infantry, artillery and naval divisions simply won't get through.

The history of the creation of the elite troops

The coat of arms appeared only in the 2000s, and they themselves went on their first assignment 60 years earlier. The first operation, in which the paratroopers participated, was carried out in 1941. It was when Moscow was captured by the Nazis that the help of the sky was really needed. And it was from heaven that this help was received. The paratroopers were landed behind enemy lines and in bloody battles helped to destroy more than 15 thousand German soldiers, thereby providing extraordinary assistance to occupied Moscow. To date, the soldiers of the Airborne Forces managed to take part in the Afghan and Georgian wars, provided irreplaceable assistance in Chechen companies.

To date, the Russian Airborne Forces remain the most numerous in Europe.
During World War II, the paratroopers had to jump while on board the airborne combat vehicles.
The vests of the paratroopers differ from the uniforms of the sailors in the color of the stripes. Have airborne soldier they are blue.
It wasn't until 1969 that blue berets became part of the uniform. Before that, they had a bright crimson color.

One of the legends about why the paratroopers bathe in the fountains says: a real airborne soldier simply loves the sky. When he sees the reflection of his native element in the fountain, he wants to plunge into the clouds, albeit reflected.
In 2017, the Airborne Forces celebrated their holiday - the elite troops are already 87 years old.

Trousers from a special suit of parachute parts With buttons The belt is adjustable in size with the help of side elastic bands High waist for the convenience of wearing ammunition on the belt Loops for a wide waist belt Reinforcing pads with a softening insert on the knees (photo A) Mesh for ventilation in the groin area Bottom of the trousers with an elastic band The cuffs at the bottom of the trousers are pulled with a braid, which prevents debris from getting into the shoes Pockets: 2 side pockets and 2 pockets on the hips with a fold-over top, which prevents spontaneous falling out of objects 1 pocket for a knife 2 back pockets Material: 100% cotton MAYBE, YOU ARE INTERESTED: Designed for the parachute parts of the suit turned out to be very convenient for tourists. Everything that is sharpened for a parachute is good for a backpack. Pre-shrunk, heavy-duty tarpaulin fabric that is highly resistant to fading. The tarpaulin breathes, protects from wind and moisture, is not afraid of a fire (if you do not dry clothes on a fire rope) and does not bite through insects. The loose-fitting jacket does not restrict movement and is devoid of bulging parts. Due to the absence of lower pockets, it can be worn both outside and tucked into trousers. Buttons characteristic of the uniform. The bottom of the jacket is adjustable in size. Flap-protected two front pockets and easy-access side pockets on sleeves. Internal document pocket made of water-repellent fabric. Ventilation in the hottest places in the jacket and trousers is provided by the mesh fabric. The most tense (elbows and knees) are reinforced with additional pads (on the knees with a softening insert). Trousers with a high adjustable waistband and straps for a wide belt are comfortable and allow you to carry the necessary ammunition on the belt. Loose fit, drawstring bottom of the legs allow you to move freely through the most inaccessible places and protect the boots from getting into debris. The restraint of the jacket is more than compensated by the abundance of pockets on the trousers. Slip pockets on the side are simple and familiar, two back pockets with flaps, two front ones with flaps on the front hips and a pocket for a knife. You can place everything you need from salt, matches, maps, compass and GPS to vending machine horns. A durable, comfortable, breathable, unpretentious suit will provide reliable protection in the forest and in the air.

Classic model Conforms to NATO standards No seams

The staff suit consists of trousers and a long-sleeved tunic made of semi-woolen fabric.

MPA-78 Light jacket perfectly protects from blowing, thanks to the stitched lining, removable hood and windproof strap. On the right and left shelves there are patch pockets fastened with textile fasteners. Also has zippered front side welt pockets. The sleeves are adjustable in width with tape and plastic patches (Velcro). On the shoulder line there are false shoulder straps, fastened with buttons. On the left side of the jacket lining there is a horizontal zip pocket. Demi-season jacket for the Department of Defense provides excellent protection from blowing thanks to the stitched lining, removable hood and windbreak bar. On the right and left shelves there are patch pockets fastened with textile fasteners. Appearance... Jacket of a straight silhouette on a warmed stitched lining, with a central side zipper, with an external windproof strap, with a drawstring at the waist line. Front with a stitched yoke passing to the back, with upper welt pockets with flaps fastened with textile fasteners, side welt pockets fastened with a zipper. Two-seam set-in sleeves with stitched cuffs on an elastic tape and plastic patches (Velcro) on the bottom, for adjusting the width. Along the shoulder line, there are shoulder straps with false shoulder straps, fastened with buttons. Stand collar. The hood fastens with a 3-part zipper. The hood is adjustable along the front cutout with an elastic cord and clamps. There is a horizontal zip pocket on the left side of the jacket lining. Characteristics protection from cold protection from rain and wind statutory cut Materials rip-stop membrane

An officer's cap of the Military Space Forces of the Russian Federation with an olive-colored top, a blue band and a blue edging. The cap is completed with a cockade and a metallized filigree cord. The height of the crown is -7 cm. The cap is produced within 3-5 working days.

Model: Vostok 420307 Men's watch Collection: Amphibian Movement: Mechanical self-winding Case: Steel Glass: Mineral Bracelet: Steel Water resistance: 200 m Calendar: Date

Standard (135x90) souvenir desktop (on a stand) car (on a small stand with tape)

Description "Vostok 811307" is a beautiful wrist watch made in the corporate sports style of a domestic manufacturer. The watch case is made of stainless steel and equipped with mineral glass. Also, the model is complemented and decorated with a genuine leather strap. The energy source is the spring mechanism. The watch has a standard factory design and you can immediately see it by the presence of red and black elements. Gray hands on a turquoise background, together with the emblem of the Airborne Forces, perfectly complement the image of a real men's watch. "Vostok 811307" will be a great gift for every man! Characteristics General characteristics Type male, mechanical Skeleton yes Time display method analog (hands), 12 o'clock Arabic numerals Energy source Spring mechanism Style Sports Construction Shockproof

Characteristics General characteristics Type male, mechanical Skeleton yes Time display method analogue (hands), 12 o'clock Arabic numerals Energy source Spring mechanism Style Sports Construction Waterproof 30 m Watch shape Circle Material Stainless steel. steel Bracelet Leather Glass Mineral Features Date display calendar, number Hand illumination Complete set Watch, passport, user manual in Russian, branded packaging, warranty card, cash and sales receipts. Warranty 1 year from the manufacturer Gender: Men Movement: Mechanical Case: Glass: Mineral Size: 38 mm Water resistance: 30 m Calendar: Number Add. information:

Specify the production time by phone. Prepayment of 100% of the cost.