Russian Navy Afghanistan War 1980`s?

[The Monkey God]

Hi Guys,

Can anyone tell me whether the Russian Navy deployed any personel to Afganistan?

:confused:

[r.morrison]

I think we should ask our Russian friends on that one. I would think it "not impossible" that Marine Infantry units did tours there too, given the number of troops engaged there in the eighties.

[r.morrison]

Had a quick look round, but only hearsay stories seem to exist.

Some sources seem to confirm the presence of soviet marine infantry during this conflict. Rotated in and out as normal infantry units during the conflict...

Naval SPETZNATZ units were apparently operational only as of 1988.

One report talks of trials by the navy of the YAK 38 VTOL aircraft. Used in a similar manner to the HARRIER it did not prove worthful and was largely inferior to the SU 25 FROGFOOT in the ground attack role. Thus, it was not put into extensive active service in consequence.

The US NAVY is apparently considering buying 21 MI 17 transport helicopters for sole use in the Afghan conflict...............:cool:

[Old Seaman]

From the Internet I discovered that at the end of Afgan campain a unit from the Black Sea Fleet 810 marine infantry corps probably took part in the actions.

Regards,
Serge.

[Old Seaman]

Special role in supporting Soviet Army invasion in Afganistan was played by Soviet Navy Task Forces in Indian Ocean, Red and Mediterranien Seas. At that time immediately after the invasion started Commander of the 8 Operative Squadron Rear-Admiral M. Khronopulo started joint Soviet-Yemen naval exersices with marine assault raid on the Sokotra island.
For the first time in the history of Soviet marines about 1000 marines took part in joint action. Tactical assault was carried out by 8 Ka-25 choppers, fighting groups went ashore from 2 hovercrafts.

[Old Seaman]

Due to the Soviet Army Limited Contingent invaison to Afganistan a 45-th Separate Coast Guard Division was established with the aim of protecting bordres along Amudaria and Pjandzh rivers. The HQ was located in the city of Termez (Termez Flotillia).

[The Monkey God]

Thanks guys thats been of great help and interest. I read somewhere that the Russian Navy had some sort of Airborne Marine Infantry type force that where rotated through in order for the soldiers to obtain combat experiance. Not sure how true this is?

I assume that any Naval units that did deploy, would wear Naval badges and belt buckles, etc?

[r.morrison]

Probably would have worn the kakhi uniforms with the striped t shirt and the ploti cap

[The Monkey God]

Thanks rm.

[r.morrison]

Here are are a few shots, one certainly about the second war era and one of the Naval Infantry today and finally a 82 mm mortar team on the range