4th Mixed Aviation Division
Location Analysis
The 4th Mixed Aviation Division is headquartered in Marinovka, Volgograd Oblast. This location provides strategic access to the southern and southwestern operational directions of the Russian Federation. The proximity to the borders of Ukraine and the Caucasus region enhances the division's ability to project air power rapidly in these areas. Marinovka Air Base is equipped with infrastructure capable of supporting a variety of fixed-wing combat aircraft, and its location benefits from established logistical routes and relative security from direct adversary strikes.
Organizational Structure
The division comprises multiple aviation regiments, including the 11th Separate Mixed Aviation Regiment and the 960th Assault Aviation Regiment. The 11th Regiment operates under military unit number 77978 and is equipped with both Su-24MP and Su-24M aircraft, reflecting a focus on both electronic warfare and conventional strike missions. The 960th Regiment, military unit 75387, fields a mix of Su-25 variants, indicating a primary role in ground attack and close air support operations. The division's structure allows for flexible tasking across a spectrum of air operations.
Aircraft Inventory and Capabilities
The 11th Separate Mixed Aviation Regiment maintains a fleet of 12 Su-24MP and 12 Su-24M aircraft. The Su-24MP is a specialized electronic warfare platform, providing the capability to conduct electronic intelligence and jamming operations. The Su-24M is a variable-sweep wing strike aircraft capable of delivering a wide range of munitions against ground targets. The 960th Assault Aviation Regiment operates 7 Su-25SM3, 15 Su-25SM, 2 Su-25, and 4 Su-25UB aircraft. The Su-25SM3 and SM variants are upgraded models with improved avionics, survivability, and precision-guided weapon capabilities, while the Su-25UB serves as a combat trainer. This composition enables the division to conduct both precision strike and close air support missions.
Infrastructure Capabilities
Marinovka Air Base possesses hardened aircraft shelters, maintenance facilities, and secure storage for munitions and fuel. The base is equipped with modernized runways capable of supporting high-tempo flight operations for both tactical and support aircraft. Ground-based air defense systems and perimeter security measures are in place to protect critical assets. The infrastructure supports rapid sortie generation and sustained operations, with the capacity to host additional aircraft during periods of heightened activity.
Operational Readiness and Deployment Potential
The division maintains a high level of operational readiness, with regular training exercises focusing on combined arms operations and interoperability with ground forces. The presence of both strike and electronic warfare platforms allows for integrated mission profiles, including suppression of enemy air defenses and deep strike operations. The division's assets are capable of rapid redeployment to forward airfields if required, enhancing their responsiveness to emerging threats or operational requirements in the region.
Strategic Significance
The 4th Mixed Aviation Division serves as a key component of the Russian Aerospace Forces' southern operational grouping. Its location and composition provide significant deterrence and warfighting capability along Russia's southwestern borders. The division's mix of electronic warfare, strike, and ground attack aircraft enhances the Russian military's ability to conduct both offensive and defensive air operations, contributing to regional power projection and the defense of critical national interests.