1st Guards Tank Army
Location Analysis
The 1st Guards Tank Army headquarters is situated in Moscow Oblast, specifically in Odintsovo (Bakovka). This location provides strategic depth, proximity to the Russian capital, and access to major transportation networks, facilitating rapid deployment and logistical support. The area is well-defended and benefits from robust infrastructure, making it a secure site for command and control functions.
Command Structure and Leadership
The 1st Guards Tank Army is under the command of Lieutenant General Sergey Kisel, reflecting a high level of operational experience and continuity. Subordinate units, such as the 27th Separate Guards Motor Rifle Brigade commanded by Colonel Yaroslav Gladkikh and the 96th Separate Reconnaissance Brigade led by Colonel Valery Vdovichenko, indicate a hierarchical structure designed for combined arms operations and rapid response.
Armored and Mechanized Capabilities
The 27th Separate Guards Motor Rifle Brigade, military unit 61899, is equipped with T-90A main battle tanks, BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles, BTR-82A armored personnel carriers, and 2S3 Akatsiya self-propelled howitzers. This combination provides significant offensive and defensive capabilities, enabling both mechanized assault and sustained ground operations. The presence of modern armor and artillery enhances the brigade's operational flexibility.
Missile Forces
The 112nd Guards Missile Division, military unit 03333, is equipped with the 9K720 Iskander-M short-range ballistic missile system. This system provides the formation with precision strike capabilities against high-value targets at ranges up to 500 kilometers. The Iskander-M enhances the Army's deterrence posture and allows for rapid, high-impact engagement of enemy assets.
Artillery Support
The 288th Artillery Brigade, military unit 30683, fields 2A65 Msta-B towed howitzers, BM-27 Uragan multiple rocket launchers, and 9K114 Shturm anti-tank guided missile systems. This diverse artillery complement provides both direct and indirect fire support, enabling suppression of enemy positions, counter-battery operations, and anti-armor engagements. The brigade's assets are integral to combined arms tactics.
Reconnaissance and Intelligence
The 96th Separate Reconnaissance Brigade, military unit 52634, specializes in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and target acquisition. This unit is essential for providing real-time battlefield information, supporting both offensive and defensive operations. Advanced reconnaissance assets and experienced personnel enhance the Army's situational awareness and operational planning.
Air Defense Capabilities
The 49th Anti-Aircraft Missile Brigade, military unit 21555, is equipped with 9K37 Buk and 9K37M1-2 Buk-M1-2 surface-to-air missile systems. These systems provide medium-range air defense against a variety of aerial threats, including aircraft, helicopters, and cruise missiles. The brigade's deployment ensures layered protection for key assets and formations.
Command and Control Infrastructure
The 60th Command and Control Brigade, with military units 73621 and 76736, is responsible for establishing and maintaining secure communications, data links, and battlefield management systems. This brigade ensures effective command, control, and coordination across all subordinate units, enabling rapid decision-making and operational flexibility.
NBC Protection
The 20th Separate NBC Protection Regiment, military unit 12102, provides nuclear, biological, and chemical defense capabilities. This unit is tasked with detection, decontamination, and protection measures, ensuring the survivability of personnel and equipment in contaminated environments. Its presence is critical for maintaining operational continuity under NBC threat conditions.
Logistical Support
The 69th Separate Material-Technical Support Brigade, military unit 11385, is responsible for the supply, maintenance, and transportation of materiel, fuel, and ammunition. This brigade ensures sustained operational readiness and the ability to support extended deployments. Its logistical network underpins the combat effectiveness of all subordinate units.
Headquarters Security and Redundancy
The 1st Guards Tank Army headquarters, military unit 73621, is fortified and benefits from multiple layers of physical and electronic security. The presence of redundant command and control elements, including the 60th Command and Control Brigade, ensures continuity of operations in the event of disruption or attack. The headquarters is structured to maintain command integrity under adverse conditions.