If you're interested in the size of Russia's military, then you've come to the right place. Continue reading to find out about the Russian Army's size, how many troops each battalion has, and what aircraft they have. You'll also learn what the Russian armed forces are made up of and their structure.
Russian Armed Forces
While the Russian armed forces are officially one million strong, their true size is much lower. The Russian armed forces were only seventy percent strong in 2016. These numbers could drop to 75% by 2022. There are currently around 162 tactical battalions, which consist of 800 to 1,000 soldiers and officers. This is far below the 168,000 Russian armed force that are combat capable. In addition, there are about one hundred thousand reserve personnel.
Structure of its armed forces
Russia's military forces consist of a number of different units and groups. Among these are special forces and operational-strategic associations. These latter are commanded by a regular command structure, while the former consist of lower-level associations. Each of these associations is assigned a specific function and are organized into strategic territorial associations, military districts and armies.
Each battalion's number of troops
Each federal region was to have a four-hundred man battalion. It also created volunteer regiments to increase the army's manpower. These volunteers will undergo two to four weeks of training before being sent to the front line. The volunteers must be between 18 and 60 and have expunged criminal records. The army grants veterans veteran status that lasts for life and pays them a monthly salary.
Number of aircraft
Russia's aircraft fleet is small in terms of size compared to other countries. For example, a fighter aircraft has a greater inventory than a trainer aircraft. However, Russia's total aircraft fleet is a good indicator of its airborne military capabilities.
Numerous helicopters
Recently, the Russian military increased its budget to purchase more aircraft. Between 2009-2020, the Russian military will have 440 new aircraft. It also owns hundreds of helicopters and more than 200 drones. These new additions will improve the Russian military’s capabilities in the air.
Nuclear arsenal
The Russian nuclear arsenal has both strategic and tactical weapons. While the strategic arsenal includes missiles that can carry nuclear warheads up to 100 kilotons, Russia also has a large number of non-strategic, defensive nuclear weapons. These weapons are known as Iskander M, short-range ballistic Missiles. Their effectiveness has been demonstrated against conventional forces. The Iskander-M can travel almost three-quarters distance from Kiev at 480 km.