21st Guards Mixed Aviation Division
Organizational Overview
The 21st Guards Mixed Aviation Division is a key component of the Russian Aerospace Forces, headquartered at Shagol Air Base in Chelyabinsk Oblast. Commanded by Colonel Andrei Yermakov, the division encompasses a diverse array of aviation regiments, each specializing in distinct operational roles. The division's structure enables it to conduct a wide spectrum of missions, including air superiority, ground attack, reconnaissance, and rotary-wing support, reflecting its strategic importance within Russia's military aviation framework.
Location Analysis
Shagol Air Base, situated in Chelyabinsk Oblast, serves as the headquarters for the division. The location provides strategic depth, being situated well within Russian territory and offering secure basing away from immediate border threats. The base benefits from robust infrastructure, including multiple runways, hardened aircraft shelters, and proximity to logistical supply lines. Its central position facilitates rapid redeployment of assets to both western and eastern operational theaters as required.
2nd Mixed Aviation Regiment Capabilities
The 2nd Mixed Aviation Regiment, designated as military unit 69806, operates a fleet comprising 24 Su-34 fighter-bombers and 12 Su-24MR reconnaissance aircraft. The Su-34s provide advanced strike capabilities with precision-guided munitions, extended range, and all-weather operational capacity, making them suitable for deep strike and interdiction missions. The Su-24MRs offer tactical reconnaissance, equipped with sophisticated sensors for battlefield surveillance and target acquisition, enhancing the regiment's ability to support both offensive and defensive operations.
712th Fighter Aviation Regiment Capabilities
The 712th Fighter Aviation Regiment, military unit 82873, fields 21 MiG-31BM and 4 MiG-31BSM interceptor aircraft. The MiG-31BM is a modernized variant featuring upgraded avionics, improved radar, and the ability to engage multiple aerial targets at extended ranges. The regiment's primary mission is airspace control and long-range interception, providing a critical layer of defense against high-speed, high-altitude threats. The presence of MiG-31BSM variants further enhances operational flexibility and combat readiness.
764th Fighter Aviation Regiment Capabilities
The 764th Fighter Aviation Regiment, military unit 88503, is equipped with 24 MiG-31BSM aircraft. This regiment specializes in high-speed interception and air superiority missions. The MiG-31BSM offers advanced radar systems, improved electronic warfare suites, and compatibility with a wide range of air-to-air missiles. The unit's operational focus is on rapid response to aerial incursions and the protection of critical airspace, contributing significantly to the division's overall air defense posture.
337th Separate Helicopter Regiment Capabilities
The 337th Separate Helicopter Regiment, military unit 12739, operates 20 Mi-24P attack helicopters and 20 Mi-8AMTSh transport helicopters. The Mi-24P provides close air support, armed reconnaissance, and anti-armor capabilities, while the Mi-8AMTSh offers versatile troop transport, medevac, and logistical support functions. The regiment's rotary-wing assets enhance the division's operational flexibility, enabling rapid deployment, search and rescue, and direct support to ground forces in various combat scenarios.
Infrastructure Capabilities
The division's airfields and support facilities are equipped with hardened shelters, modern maintenance hangars, and extensive fuel and munitions storage. Advanced command and control centers facilitate integrated operations across regiments. The infrastructure supports high sortie rates and sustained operations, with redundancy measures in place to ensure resilience against potential attacks. The presence of dedicated logistics and technical support units further enhances the division's operational sustainability.
Operational Readiness and Strategic Significance
The 21st Guards Mixed Aviation Division maintains a high level of operational readiness, with regular training exercises and modernization programs ensuring the combat effectiveness of its assets. The division's diverse composition allows for rapid adaptation to evolving mission requirements, from strategic deterrence to direct combat operations. Its strategic location and advanced capabilities make it a pivotal element in Russia's broader air defense and power projection strategies.