45th Air and Air Defense Forces Army
Organizational Structure Overview
The 45th Air and Air Defense Forces Army is a major formation within the Russian Aerospace Forces, responsible for air operations and air defense in the Arctic and Northwestern regions. Its headquarters is designated as military unit 06351 and is currently commanded by Lieutenant General Alexander Otroshchenko. The Army comprises a diverse array of aviation regiments and detachments, each specializing in different operational roles including fighter, reconnaissance, anti-submarine, and transport missions. The structure reflects a focus on both territorial air defense and support of naval operations, particularly in the Arctic and Northern Fleet areas.
Location Analysis
The units under the 45th Air and Air Defense Forces Army are primarily stationed in the Russian Arctic and Northwestern territories, with key bases located in Murmansk Oblast and surrounding regions. These locations provide strategic coverage over the Barents Sea, the Northern Sea Route, and approaches to the Russian Arctic, enabling rapid response to aerial and maritime threats. The proximity to naval bases and critical infrastructure supports joint operations with the Russian Navy, particularly the Northern Fleet.
Infrastructure Capabilities
The Army's infrastructure includes a network of airfields capable of supporting a wide range of aircraft, from heavy transports to advanced fighters and specialized reconnaissance platforms. Facilities are equipped for all-weather operations, reflecting the harsh Arctic environment. Hangars, maintenance depots, and munitions storage are present at major bases. The presence of both fixed-wing and rotary-wing assets indicates robust logistical and operational flexibility, enabling sustained operations in remote and austere conditions.
Aviation Assets and Composition
The 45th Air and Air Defense Forces Army fields a diverse inventory of aircraft. The 98th Separate Mixed Aviation Regiment (military unit 75385) operates 12 Su-24M strike aircraft and 12 Su-24MR reconnaissance variants, providing both offensive and intelligence-gathering capabilities. The 174th Guards Fighter Aviation Regiment is equipped with 20 MiG-31BM interceptors, optimized for long-range air defense. Naval aviation regiments, such as the 100th and 279th, operate carrier-capable fighters (MiG-29KR/KUB, Su-33, Su-25UTG, Su-30SM) and support aircraft. Anti-submarine warfare is handled by the 830th Regiment with Ka-27, Ka-29, and Ka-31 helicopters. Transport and special mission aircraft, including An-12, An-26, Il-38, Il-20RT, and Tu-142MR/MK, are distributed across the 403rd Regiment and the 7050th Aviation Base and its subordinate air groups.
Command and Control
The headquarters of the 45th Air and Air Defense Forces Army (military unit 06351) provides centralized command and control, integrating air defense, offensive, and reconnaissance operations. The command structure ensures coordination with the Russian Northern Fleet and other branches, facilitating joint operations in the Arctic. Advanced communications and radar systems are in place to maintain situational awareness and direct assets in response to emerging threats.
Operational Readiness and Deployment
Units under the 45th Army maintain high levels of operational readiness, with regular exercises and patrols conducted in the Arctic region. The presence of both land-based and carrier-capable aircraft allows for flexible deployment options, including rapid reinforcement of forward positions and support for naval task groups. The mix of reconnaissance, strike, and transport assets enables comprehensive coverage of the vast Arctic operational area.
Strategic Significance
The 45th Air and Air Defense Forces Army plays a critical role in safeguarding Russian interests in the Arctic, including the protection of the Northern Sea Route, energy infrastructure, and territorial claims. Its capabilities deter potential incursions by foreign military forces and support Russia’s broader strategic objectives in the High North. The integration of air and naval aviation assets enhances the overall effectiveness of Russian military posture in the region.