6th Air and Air Defense Forces Army
Organizational Structure and Command
The 6th Air and Air Defense Forces Army is a key formation of the Russian Aerospace Forces, headquartered in Saint Petersburg. The unit operates under the command of Lieutenant General Oleg Makovetsky. Its structure encompasses a diverse array of aviation regiments, army aviation bases, support battalions, and command centers, reflecting a comprehensive approach to both offensive and defensive air operations in the Northwestern Military District.
Location Analysis
The headquarters of the 6th Air and Air Defense Forces Army is strategically situated in Saint Petersburg, providing rapid access to the Baltic region and Northern Russia. The positioning of subordinate units across the Northwestern Federal District enhances the operational reach and response capabilities, particularly in proximity to NATO borders and key Russian infrastructure.
Aviation Transport Capabilities
The 33rd Separate Mixed Aviation Transport Regiment (military unit 49719) is equipped with a versatile fleet, including 8 An-12, 12 An-26, 2 An-30, 6 An-72, 2 An-148-100E, 2 Tu-134, 2 L-410UVP-E20 fixed-wing aircraft, and 16 Mil Mi-8 and 1 Mil Mi-26 helicopters. This composition enables a broad spectrum of transport missions, from tactical airlift and reconnaissance to VIP transport and logistical support. The Mixed Aviation Squadron within the regiment adds 6 An-26 and 7 Mil Mi-8MTV-5, further enhancing intra-theater mobility.
Army Aviation Combat Assets
The 378th Army Aviation Base (military unit 41687) and the 549th Army Aviation Base (military unit 12633) provide significant rotary-wing combat capabilities. The 378th operates Mi-24V, Mi-24P, and Mi-8MT helicopters, suitable for close air support, troop transport, and medevac roles. The 549th Base and its Air Group field Mi-28N attack helicopters, Mi-35M, Mi-24PN, and various Mi-8 variants, offering a blend of anti-armor, assault, and utility functions. The 15th Army Aviation Brigade (military unit 44440) is notable for its substantial attack helicopter fleet, including 16 Mi-28N, 10 Mi-35M, 18 Ka-52, 20 Mi-8MTV-5, and 6 Mi-26, providing robust firepower and heavy-lift capability.
Support and Communications Infrastructure
Operational effectiveness is underpinned by dedicated support units. The Separate Communications Battalion (military unit 03213-2) ensures secure and resilient command and control links. The 35th Separate Airfield Engineer Battalion (military unit 55603) is responsible for airfield construction, maintenance, and rapid repair, supporting sustained air operations. The 213rd Command Center (military unit 03213) coordinates operational planning and execution across the formation.
Air Defense and Surveillance Assets
The 57th Separate Radio-Technical Battalion (military unit 68107) provides radar surveillance and early warning capabilities, essential for airspace control and air defense coordination. These assets contribute to the detection, tracking, and identification of aerial threats, integrating with broader Russian air defense networks to protect key strategic areas.
Operational Readiness and Strategic Role
The 6th Air and Air Defense Forces Army maintains a high level of operational readiness, with multi-role aviation assets and robust support infrastructure. Its strategic role includes the defense of Russia’s northwestern airspace, rapid deployment of forces, and provision of air support to ground operations. The integration of transport, attack, and reconnaissance platforms, combined with advanced communications and engineering support, enables flexible and sustained operations in both peacetime and conflict scenarios.