Russia’s air defense forces could eventually be separated into a distinct branch of the Armed Forces, according to military expert Vladimir Yevseyev. He argues that current threats require stronger capabilities for detecting and intercepting aerial targets, and that a broader reorganization could improve protection across Russian regions.
Yevseyev also pointed to an earlier statement by Russian President Vladimir Putin on the need to appoint a single commander for the country’s air defense system. In the expert’s view, this could mean more than a new command post and may instead point to the creation of a separate military branch with its own leadership.
Speaking to URA.RU, Yevseyev said the air defense forces would need to be removed from the Aerospace Forces to address these tasks effectively. He argued that their interception and surveillance capabilities should be expanded, personnel numbers increased, and coordination improved.
He believes the new structure should combine both air defense and missile defense functions. It may also require its own aviation units and unmanned systems to carry out its full range of missions.
At the same time, Yevseyev said Moscow’s air defense system could remain under the Russian Aerospace Forces.
The expert also called for broader development of air and missile defense outside the capital. He said such systems should be deployed in areas where they are currently absent. While they may be less sophisticated than the system protecting Moscow, they would still be needed to defend major cities and strategically important facilities.