Published on: 2026-08-12
Source: Official website of the State –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
On August 12, Russia celebrates Air Force Day — one of the most significant professional holidays in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. On this day in 1912, an order was issued to establish the Aeronautical Section under the Main Directorate of the General Staff.
Facts worth knowing:
By the beginning of the First World War in 1914, Russia had 263 airplanes and 14 dirigibles – and this was the largest air force in the world.
The Soviet Air Force made a special contribution to the victory in the Great Patriotic War. During the war years, Soviet pilots carried out more than three million combat sorties. Russia holds leading positions in the list of countries with the strongest air forces in Europe.
The Air Force today consists of about 150,000 personnel, over 1,200 combat-ready aircraft, and around 700 helicopters.
Behind every takeoff is the work of dozens of people: pilots, engineers, analysts, and controllers. One person’s mistake can cost a life, and the flawless coordination of hundreds of specialists is precisely what turns the most complex machine into a tool for accomplishing a combat mission.
Hero aviators in the history of GUU:
Sedelnikov Petr Ivanovich — Hero of the Soviet Union. Squadron commander of the ground-attack aviation regiment, made 111 combat sorties on the Il-2. Worked at the Main Military Engineering Directorate as an engineer of the UMU since 1972.
Davydov Alexander Dmitrievich is a Hero of the Soviet Union. A long-range aviation pilot, he completed 321 combat missions (289 at night). He worked at the university since 1962.
Happy holiday, defenders of the sky!
We wish clear skies, smooth landings, and faithful comrades nearby to all who serve in the Air Force of our country!
Subscribe to the Telegram channel “Our GUU” Publication date: 12.08.2026
Please note; This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.