20th Combined Arms Army
Organizational Overview
The 20th Combined Arms Army is a principal formation within the Western Military District of the Russian Federation Armed Forces. Headquartered in Voronezh, the army is tasked with operational command and control over a range of subordinate units, including missile, artillery, air defense, command and control, and logistics brigades. Its current commander is Major General Sukhrab Akhmedov. The army's structure enables integrated multi-domain operations, supporting both defensive and offensive missions along Russia’s western borders.
Location Analysis
The headquarters of the 20th Combined Arms Army is located in Voronezh, a strategic city in western Russia approximately 250 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. This location facilitates rapid force projection toward the southwestern strategic direction and provides logistical advantages due to proximity to major transportation networks, including rail and road infrastructure. The positioning of subordinate units in the Voronezh region and surrounding oblasts enhances operational flexibility and responsiveness.
Missile Capabilities
The 448th Missile Brigade (military unit 35535) is equipped with the 9K720 Iskander-M short-range ballistic missile system and, to a lesser extent, legacy OTR-21 Tochka systems. The Iskander-M provides the brigade with a precision-strike capability up to 500 kilometers, supporting deep interdiction of enemy command, logistics, and infrastructure targets. The brigade’s mobility and advanced targeting systems enable rapid redeployment and reduced vulnerability to counter-battery fire.
Artillery Assets
The 236th Separate Artillery Brigade (military unit 53195) fields a combination of 2S19M2 Msta-SM/SM2 self-propelled howitzers and BM-27 Uragan multiple rocket launchers. The Msta-SM2 offers improved automation, fire control, and range over previous variants, while the BM-27 provides area saturation capabilities. This artillery mix enables both precision and massed fires, supporting maneuver elements and counter-battery operations.
Air Defense Posture
The 53rd Anti-Aircraft Missile Brigade (military unit 32406) operates the 9K37 Buk-M1 medium-range surface-to-air missile system. The Buk-M1 is capable of engaging a variety of aerial threats, including aircraft, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles, at ranges up to 35 kilometers. The brigade’s deployment enhances the layered air defense of the 20th Combined Arms Army, protecting critical assets and supporting freedom of maneuver.
Command and Control Infrastructure
The 9th Command and Control Brigade (military unit 31895) provides the 20th Combined Arms Army with advanced communications, electronic warfare, and battlefield management systems. The brigade is responsible for ensuring secure and resilient command networks, facilitating real-time situational awareness and coordinated operations across dispersed units. Its capabilities are critical for maintaining operational tempo and mitigating adversary attempts at electronic disruption.
Logistics and Sustainment
The 152nd Separate Logistics Brigade (military unit 80504) is tasked with providing comprehensive logistical support to the 20th Combined Arms Army. This includes supply chain management, transportation, maintenance, and medical services. The brigade’s structure allows for the rapid establishment of supply nodes and forward support areas, ensuring sustained combat operations and minimizing logistical vulnerabilities.
Headquarters Functions
The 20th Combined Arms Army Headquarters (military unit 89425) in Voronezh is responsible for the overall planning, coordination, and execution of operational directives. The headquarters integrates intelligence, operations, logistics, and communications functions, enabling unified command and control over subordinate formations. Its location and connectivity facilitate coordination with higher echelons and adjacent units within the Western Military District.