According to Wpristav.SU on October 4, 2023, the Russian Ministry of Defense has recently disclosed plans to strengthen and restructure the Russian Airborne Forces (VDV) with hundreds of tanks and its own aviation. These developments are taking place amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, during which Russian Airborne troops have demonstrated adaptability in executing a range of military tasks. Though comprehensive details of this reorganization are still forthcoming, some key elements have been disclosed.
According to the publication, the Ministry of Defense’s decision to enhance the organization and equipment of the Airborne Forces was officially announced on October 2. This decision represents a significant change in the way Airborne troops are structured and equipped, with the primary goal of improving their combat effectiveness and adaptability.
While specific details regarding the numbers and units set for reinforcement have not been officially revealed, the core of the plan involves an expansion of tank units within the Airborne Forces. This expansion will require an increase in the number of tank crews. However, exact figures, such as the number of tanks to be added or the specific divisions to receive reinforcements, remain undisclosed at this point. Depending on the exact intentions of the Ministry of Defense, the number of tank units in the Airborne Forces may increase by one and a half to two times or more, meaning that the number of tanks will increase to several hundred. Although this would still constitute a smaller force compared to the Russian ground forces, it would enhance the firepower, protection, and self-sufficiency of Airborne units.
Currently, the Russian Airborne Forces possess only two tank battalions within the 7th and 76th Guards Air Assault Divisions, housing a total of approximately 150-160 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs). Other units rely on Airborne light armored vehicles such as the 2S9 Nona-S 120mm self-propelled mortar and the BMD-4M infantry fighting vehicle (IFV). The intention is likely to form new tank battalions within divisions that currently lack tanks, thereby increasing overall firepower and protection, allowing for more complex missions, and simplifying combat operations through greater self-sufficiency.