4th Guards Tank Division
Location Analysis
The 4th Guards Tank Division is headquartered in Naro-Fominsk, Moscow Oblast, approximately 70 kilometers southwest of central Moscow. This location provides strategic depth for the defense of the Russian capital and facilitates rapid deployment along key western axes. The proximity to major rail and road networks enhances logistical support and mobility, while the surrounding terrain is suitable for large-scale armored maneuvers and training exercises.
Command Structure
The division is under the command of Colonel Evgeny Zhuravlev, reflecting a standard Russian divisional leadership structure. The division comprises multiple regiments and battalions, each with specialized roles, including tank, motor rifle, artillery, air defense, reconnaissance, communications, logistics, and medical support units. This integrated structure allows for combined-arms operations and independent action if required.
Armored Capabilities
The 4th Guards Tank Division fields two primary tank regiments: the 12th and 13th Guards Tank Regiments, equipped with T-80U main battle tanks, BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicles, and 2S1 Gvozdika self-propelled howitzers. The 423rd Motor Rifle Regiment operates T-80BV and T-80BVM tanks, BMP-2s, and 2S19 Msta-S self-propelled artillery. The presence of modernized T-80 variants enhances the division's operational mobility and firepower, particularly in cold-weather environments.
Artillery and Fire Support
The 275th Guards Self-Propelled Artillery Regiment provides the division with significant indirect fire capabilities, utilizing 2S19M2 Msta-SM self-propelled howitzers and 2B17M Tornado-G multiple launch rocket systems. These assets enable both precision and area fire, supporting offensive and defensive operations across a broad front. The integration of modernized artillery systems increases the division's responsiveness and lethality.
Air Defense Assets
Air defense for the division is provided by the 538th Guards Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment, equipped with the 9K331M Tor-2M surface-to-air missile system. The Tor-2M offers robust protection against a range of aerial threats, including aircraft, helicopters, and precision-guided munitions. The deployment of this modern system significantly enhances the survivability of divisional assets against contemporary air attacks.
Reconnaissance and Intelligence
The 137th Separate Reconnaissance Battalion is tasked with gathering tactical intelligence, conducting surveillance, and providing early warning of enemy movements. The battalion is likely equipped with a combination of manned and unmanned reconnaissance platforms, enabling real-time situational awareness and supporting the division's decision-making cycle.
Communications Infrastructure
The 413rd Separate Communications Battalion ensures secure and reliable command and control across all echelons of the division. This unit is responsible for establishing and maintaining both wired and wireless communications, supporting data transmission, and protecting against electronic warfare threats. Effective communications are critical for coordinating complex combined-arms operations.
Logistics and Material Support
The 1088th Separate Material Support Battalion provides comprehensive logistical support, including supply, transport, maintenance, and repair services. This battalion ensures the continuous availability of ammunition, fuel, spare parts, and other essential materiel, directly impacting the division's operational endurance and sustainability.
Medical Support Capabilities
The 165th Separate Medical Battalion delivers medical services, including emergency care, evacuation, and field hospital operations. This unit enhances the division's ability to sustain combat operations by reducing casualty rates and improving force regeneration through timely medical intervention.
Headquarters Functions
The divisional headquarters, military unit 19612, is responsible for overall command, planning, and coordination of subordinate units. It houses the division's command staff, operational planning cells, and support elements, ensuring unified direction and effective execution of missions. The headquarters also serves as the primary node for intelligence fusion, operational control, and liaison with higher command structures.