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Basic Structure of Russia Army, Important Facts

Check the Basic Structure of Russia Army, including its main branches like Ground Forces, Aerospace Forces, and Navy, alongside specialized units.
authorImageLisa Roy11 Jul, 2024
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Basic Structure of Russia Army

Basic Structure of Russia Army:- The Russian Armed Forces, also known as Russia's military, are organized into three main branches: the Ground Forces, Navy, and Aerospace Forces. They also include two special groups—the Strategic Rocket Forces and Airborne Forces—and the Special Operations Forces Command.

Russia has the world's fifth-largest military, with about 1.15 million active-duty soldiers and nearly two million reservists. They're planning to increase their active personnel to 1.5 million by 2026, aiming to become the world's third-largest military after China and India. Russia holds the largest stockpile of nuclear weapons globally and ranks second in the number of ballistic missile submarines. They're also one of only three countries (alongside the US and China) with strategic bombers. Get the Basic Structure of Russia Army details from the below article.

Basic Structure of Russia Army Overview

Go through the Basic Structure of Russia Army Overview from the below table:-
Basic Structure of Russia Army Overview
Division Type Specific Units
Main Branches Ground Forces
Aerospace Forces
Navy
Separate Troop Branches Strategic Rocket Forces
Airborne Forces
Special Forces Special Operations Forces
Logistical Support Logistical Support of the Russian Armed Forces

Historical Background of Russia Army

The Soviet Union dissolved in December 1991, leading to the formation of independent states and the division of its military assets. Russia established its Armed Forces in March 1992, with General Pavel Grachev appointed as the first Minister of Defence. The military underwent significant changes, including withdrawals from Europe and other regions. However, corruption continued to be a major issue affecting operations. Russia's military engagements, like the Russo-Ukrainian War, also underscored ongoing challenges and strategic adjustments.

Basic Structure of Russia Army

The Russian Armed Forces are structured into specialised branches: the Ground Forces for land operations, the Aerospace Forces for air defence and aviation, and the Navy for maritime defence. These branches include elite units such as the Airborne Troops and Strategic Rocket Forces, which play critical roles in national security. Recently established, the Special Operations Forces Command focuses on specialized missions. Check the Basic Structure of Russia Army below:-
  • Main Branches

  • Ground Forces: This is the largest branch focused on land-based operations. It comprises combined arms armies, tank armies, and motorized rifle armies. These formations include brigades, regiments, battalions, companies, platoons, and squads.
  • Aerospace Forces: Combining the Russian Air Force and Air defence Forces, this branch handles aerial warfare, air defence, and aerospace operations.
  • Navy: Comprising surface ships, submarines, and naval aviation, the Navy is responsible for safeguarding Russia's maritime interests and executing naval operations.
  • Independent Arms

  • Strategic Rocket Forces: This arm oversees Russia's nuclear capabilities, including intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and heavy bombers.
  • Airborne Troops: Renowned for their rapid deployment capabilities, these elite paratroopers are pivotal for swift military interventions.
  • Special Operations Forces Command: Established in 2012, this relatively new branch specializes in special reconnaissance, counter-terrorism operations, and unconventional warfare missions.

Important Facts About Russia Army

Size and Expansion Goals

  • The Russian Armed Forces are among the largest globally, with about 1.32 million active personnel and a reserve force of approximately 2 million. Plans are underway to expand the active force to 1.5 million by 2026, aiming to become the third largest military in the world.

Nuclear Capabilities

  • Russia holds the world's largest stockpile of nuclear weapons, managed by the Strategic Rocket Forces, a dedicated branch within the military.

Military Expenditure

  • Russia ranks third globally in military spending, allocating between $86.4 billion to $109 billion in 2023. This investment supports a modern and well-equipped military force.

Branch Structure

The Russian Armed Forces are structured into several branches: Ground Forces for land-based operations,
  • Aerospace Forces combining air defence and aviation,
  • Navy for maritime defence,
  • Strategic Rocket Forces overseeing nuclear weapons,
  • Airborne Troops renowned for rapid deployment,
  • Special Operations Forces Command specializing in unconventional warfare.

Current Challenges and Impact

  • The conflict in Ukraine has highlighted organizational and logistical challenges within the Russian military, potentially leading to reforms in the future.

Basic Structure of Russia Army FAQs

Q1. What are the main branches of the Russian Armed Forces?

Ans. The main branches include the Ground Forces, Aerospace Forces (combining air force and air defence), and the Navy.

Q2. What is the Strategic Rocket Forces responsible for?

Ans. The Strategic Rocket Forces manage Russia's nuclear arsenal, including intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and other strategic weapons.

Q3. Who are the Airborne Troops in the Russian Army?

Ans. The Airborne Troops (VDV) are elite paratroopers known for their rapid deployment capabilities and specialized operations.

Q4. What is the role of the Special Operations Forces Command?

Ans. This relatively new branch conducts special reconnaissance, counter-terrorism, and unconventional warfare missions.

Q5. How is the Russian Army organized on the ground?

Ans. It is structured into brigades, regiments, battalions, and smaller units like companies and platoons, allowing for flexible deployment and operations.
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