Russia’s army grows from 12 divisions in 2022 to 23 in 2025

However, the creation of a new division doesn't necessarily mean it is fully equipped and staffed, as detailed by Defense Express.

In 2022, Russia established just one division, the 6th Mechanized Division, focusing primarily on forming "mobilization" regiments and battalions that were later attached to existing units. By 2023, Russia created three divisions, which acted as cores for new military armies. For instance, the 47th Motorized Infantry Division, formed from mobilization regiments, was initially intended to be part of the 40th Army Corps.

In 2024, Russia added seven divisions, now integrated into existing military structures. However, only three of these divisions are considered fully staffed, while the others are still in the process of formation. 

The speed of this expansion has been affected not only by staffing and equipment but also by the need for infrastructure to accommodate and train soldiers.

While the formation of these new divisions is a notable increase in the army’s size, it doesn’t mean Russia is deploying large formations in combat. On the frontline, the Russian military relies more on small assault groups than on large-scale units, signaling a shift in tactics despite the growth of its divisions. 

The creation of divisions is now based on brigades, rather than the regiment-based structure used during the Soviet era, reflecting the changing military strategy of the aggressor nation.

• Russia's defense industry does not meet all the Russian military needs on the front, forcing them to cooperate with Iran and North Korea. Meanwhile, the Russians now prioritizes drones.