104th Guards Airborne Division
Unit Overview
The 104th Guards Airborne Division is a Russian Airborne Forces (VDV) formation, reestablished in 2023 on the basis of the 31st Guards Air Assault Brigade. The division is part of the Russian Federation's strategic rapid reaction forces, designed for high mobility and rapid deployment. The 345th Guards Airborne Regiment operates under this division, equipped with a range of modernized armored vehicles and artillery.
Location Analysis
The 104th Guards Airborne Division is reportedly based in Ulyanovsk, Russia, leveraging existing infrastructure from the 31st Guards Air Assault Brigade. This location provides strategic access to both European and Central Asian theaters, enabling rapid deployment via air and rail. The 345th Guards Airborne Regiment is co-located with divisional headquarters, facilitating command and control.
Infrastructure Capabilities
The division's garrison includes extensive barracks, vehicle storage facilities, maintenance depots, and training grounds. Airfield access is available for rapid airborne deployment, with facilities capable of supporting heavy-lift aircraft such as the Il-76. The infrastructure supports both peacetime training and high-readiness alert status, with secure communications and logistics nodes.
Order of Battle and Equipment
The 345th Guards Airborne Regiment is equipped with T-72B3M main battle tanks, Typhoon-VDV armored vehicles, D-30 122mm howitzers, and BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launchers. The T-72B3M provides enhanced firepower and survivability, while the Typhoon-VDV offers protected mobility for airborne troops. Artillery assets such as the D-30 and BM-21 Grad enable both direct and indirect fire support, increasing operational flexibility.
Operational Readiness
The reestablishment of the 104th Guards Airborne Division reflects a broader modernization and expansion of Russian airborne capabilities. The division maintains a high level of readiness, with regular training exercises emphasizing rapid deployment, air assault operations, and combined arms integration. The presence of modernized equipment indicates a focus on both expeditionary and conventional warfare roles.
Strategic Significance
The 104th Guards Airborne Division enhances Russia's ability to project power and respond to regional contingencies. Its reactivation aligns with increased emphasis on rapid reaction forces within Russian military doctrine. The division's location and capabilities provide a deterrent posture and enable flexible response options in both defensive and offensive operations.