Russia forms regiment from Aerospace Forces to defend Kursk region - UK intelligence

The UK Ministry of Defense reports.

For example, citing a report by the Russian investigative media Vazhnyye Istorii (Important Stories), British intelligence reports that one of the units operating for defense in the Kursk region is a specialized motorized rifle regiment formed from the Aerospace Forces. It was formed in May 2024 and is subordinated to the Northern Grouping of the Russian forces.

In general, the motorized rifle regiment consists of those who previously held special positions, such as early warning radar operators and long-range heavy bomber operators.

Analysts suggest that the diversion of personnel from these previously priority areas is likely indicative of a persistent shortage of personnel in Russia. By using them for other purposes, Russia may reduce its ability to regain control of the Kursk region.

“Russia continues to develop new units and recruit more personnel to sustain its mass attritional warfare approach against Ukraine. The high casualty rates that result mean that Russia needs to continuously replenish front line infantry personnel, which will almost certainly continue to limit Russia’s ability to generate higher capability units,” the statement said.

• On August 20, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin ordered the military to push Ukrainian forces out of the Kursk region by October 1, 2024.