58th Combined Arms Army
Location Analysis
The 58th Combined Arms Army is headquartered in Vladikavkaz, North Ossetia, within Russia's Southern Military District. Its subordinate formations are dispersed across the North Caucasus region, including Dagestan, Chechnya, and Ingushetia. This geographic disposition enables rapid deployment capabilities along Russia’s southern border and facilitates operational control over volatile areas in the North Caucasus. The proximity to the South Caucasus and Black Sea regions further enhances the army’s strategic reach.
Command Structure and Leadership
The 58th Combined Arms Army operates under the Southern Military District and is currently commanded by Lieutenant General Denis Lyamin. The army headquarters, designated as military unit 47084, is responsible for the operational command and coordination of all subordinate units. The command structure is designed to ensure flexibility and rapid decision-making, with dedicated command and control assets such as the 34th Command and Control Brigade (military unit 29202) and the 1020th Command Intelligence Center (military unit 30656, GRU), providing robust intelligence and communications support.
Mechanized and Armored Capabilities
The 136th Separate Guards Motor Rifle Brigade (military unit 63354) constitutes the primary mechanized force, equipped with T-90A main battle tanks, BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles, 2S3 Akatsiya self-propelled howitzers, and 9A331 Tor-M1 air defense systems. This brigade is capable of conducting combined arms operations, with a balance of mobility, firepower, and protection. The presence of modern armored vehicles and integrated air defense assets enhances the brigade’s survivability and effectiveness in both offensive and defensive operations.
Missile and Long-Range Strike Assets
The 12th Missile Brigade (military unit 25788) is equipped with the 9K720 Iskander-M short-range ballistic missile system, providing the 58th Army with precision strike capabilities up to 500 km. The Iskander-M system is capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear warheads, and its mobility complicates adversary targeting efforts. This brigade significantly enhances the army’s deterrence posture and its ability to conduct deep strikes against critical enemy infrastructure.
Artillery and Fire Support
The 291st Artillery Brigade (military unit 64670) fields a diverse array of artillery systems, including the 2S19 Msta-S and 2A65 Msta-B howitzers, BM-27 Uragan multiple rocket launchers, 2S7M Malka and 2S4 Tyulpan heavy artillery, MT-12 Rapira anti-tank guns, and 9K123 Khrizantema-S anti-tank missile systems. This comprehensive artillery park provides the army with substantial firepower for both suppression of enemy forces and counter-battery operations. The brigade’s mix of self-propelled, towed, and rocket artillery allows for flexible and sustained fire support across a range of operational scenarios.
Air Defense Capabilities
The 67th Anti-Aircraft Missile Brigade (military unit 32383) is equipped with the 9K37 Buk-M1 medium-range surface-to-air missile system. The Buk-M1 provides area air defense against a variety of aerial threats, including fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and certain types of missiles. The brigade’s deployment enhances the overall air defense umbrella for the 58th Army, protecting key assets and formations from enemy air attacks.
Reconnaissance and Intelligence
The 100th Separate Reconnaissance Brigade (military unit 23511) is tasked with gathering tactical and operational intelligence. Equipped with GAZ-2975 Tigr armored vehicles and advanced surveillance equipment, the brigade conducts reconnaissance, target acquisition, and special operations. The 1020th Command Intelligence Center (military unit 30656, GRU) further augments intelligence capabilities, providing signals intelligence, electronic warfare, and analysis support. These assets enable timely and accurate situational awareness for decision-makers.
Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical (NBC) Defense
The 40th NBC Protection Regiment (military unit 16383) is responsible for ensuring the survivability of personnel and equipment in the event of nuclear, biological, or chemical attacks. The regiment is equipped with specialized detection, decontamination, and protective equipment, and is trained to conduct both defensive and remedial NBC operations. Its presence ensures that the 58th Army maintains operational effectiveness in contaminated environments.
Engineering and Mobility Support
The 31st Engineer-Sapper Regiment (military unit 31777) provides essential combat engineering support, including minefield breaching, fortification construction, and mobility/counter-mobility operations. The regiment is equipped with modern engineering vehicles and explosive ordnance disposal capabilities, enabling the 58th Army to overcome obstacles, enhance force protection, and sustain maneuver operations in complex terrain.
Command and Control Infrastructure
The 34th Command and Control Brigade (military unit 29202) is tasked with establishing and maintaining robust communications networks and command posts for the 58th Army. The brigade employs advanced communications, automation, and information security systems to ensure uninterrupted command and control, even in contested electromagnetic environments. This capability is critical for coordinating complex, multi-domain operations across dispersed formations.
Summary Assessment
The 58th Combined Arms Army possesses a balanced and modern force structure, integrating mechanized, artillery, missile, air defense, reconnaissance, engineering, and NBC defense units. Its deployment in the North Caucasus provides strategic depth and rapid response capabilities along Russia’s southern flank. The combination of advanced weapon systems, experienced leadership, and comprehensive support elements positions the 58th Army as a key component of Russia’s regional military posture.