Military ranks of the Soviet Union (1955–1991)
The Soviet Union's military ranks between 1955 and 1991 represented a hierarchical system used to denote a service member's position, authority, and responsibility within the Soviet Armed Forces. These ranks differed slightly across the branches (Army, Air Force, Navy, Strategic Rocket Forces, etc.) and underwent several modifications during this period. This article outlines the basic structure and evolution of these ranks.
General Structure:
The rank system was broadly divided into:
-
Enlisted Personnel: The lowest tier, comprising soldiers, sailors, sergeants, and starshinas. These ranks indicated basic training and varying levels of non-commissioned leadership.
-
Junior Officers: Representing the initial commissioned officer ranks. These officers typically led platoons or smaller units.
-
Senior Officers: Officers holding more significant command positions, often leading companies, battalions, or regiments.
-
General Officers/Admirals: The highest ranks, reserved for those commanding large formations, strategic directorates, and occupying top positions within the Ministry of Defence.
Key Changes and Specifics:
The period from 1955-1991 saw adjustments to rank insignia, nomenclature, and eligibility criteria. While a comprehensive listing of every single modification is beyond the scope of this entry, some notable aspects include:
-
Naval Ranks: The Soviet Navy had a distinct system of ranks, sometimes with different names but corresponding levels of authority to Army ranks. For example, a Captain 1st Rank in the Navy was roughly equivalent to a Colonel in the Army. The term "Admiral" was used for the highest naval ranks.
-
Abolishment and Reintroduction of Ranks: In the early Soviet period, traditional military ranks were initially abolished in favor of a more egalitarian system. However, ranks were gradually reintroduced, and by the mid-20th century, a more structured hierarchy similar to other nations was in place.
-
Marshal of the Soviet Union: This was the highest military rank (excluding Generalissimus, which was held only by Stalin). Marshals held immense power and influence.
-
Rank Insignia: Rank was denoted by shoulder boards (epaulettes) displaying stars, bars, and other symbols indicating the specific rank and branch of service. These insignias changed slightly over time.
Dissolution and Legacy:
Upon the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, the rank system was largely inherited by the newly independent states, though significant modifications were implemented in many countries to reflect their national identities and military doctrines. The Russian Federation, in particular, retained a system heavily influenced by the Soviet model, with some adaptations.