Russian Air Force

The Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) were established in 2015 through the merger of the Russian Air Force (VVS) and the Aerospace Defence Forces (VVKO). This reorganization created a unified command structure with three primary branches: the Air Force, the Air and Missile Defense Forces, and the Space Forces. The intent was to improve the integration and efficiency of air and space operations, closing a perceived gap in Russian military strategy that had previously separated these domains. This structure reports to a central high command in Moscow, designed to enhance inter-service cooperation.

The strategic doctrine of the VKS is centered on the concept of a single, continuous air and space theater of war. Its mission is to protect Russia from aerospace threats with both conventional and nuclear capabilities, provide early warning, and support other military branches. This doctrine emphasizes the degradation of an adversary's military and economic potential through long-range precision strikes against critical infrastructure, a form of non-contact warfare. This strategy is part of a broader "active defense" concept, which combines defensive and offensive operations to disorganize an opponent's efforts.

Operationally, the VKS fields a mix of modern and legacy Soviet-era platforms. Its capabilities have been enhanced through the introduction of 4++ generation fighters like the Su-35, which provide a significant technological advantage over many immediate neighbors. The VKS operates a robust and multi-layered ground-based air defense network, which is integrated into its overall structure. The strategic bomber fleet, consisting of aircraft like the Tu-95 and Tu-160, provides a global strike capability with long-range cruise missiles.

The full-scale invasion of Ukraine since 2022 has been the VKS's most significant operational engagement. While its long-range aviation has been effective in striking Ukrainian infrastructure, the VKS has surprisingly failed to achieve air superiority. This has been attributed to effective and mobile Ukrainian air defenses, shortcomings in suppressing these defenses (SEAD/DEAD operations), and significant losses of aircraft. In response, the VKS has adapted by increasingly relying on stand-off weapons, such as guided bombs launched from a distance, and a wide variety of drones for both reconnaissance and strike missions.

Modernization remains a key priority, focusing on replacing older Soviet aircraft with advanced models and upgrading existing platforms. The State Armament Program continues to fund the acquisition of aircraft like the Su-34 and Su-35, while development of the 5th generation Su-57 continues, albeit slowly. Modernization of the strategic bomber fleet is also a key program. The conflict in Ukraine has spurred adaptation, particularly in the rapid development and deployment of various unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). However, ongoing combat losses and the impact of international sanctions present significant challenges to the long-term goals of these modernization efforts.