10 Russian Army Military Ranks You Should Know

The Russian Army is one of the most powerful and technologically advanced military forces in the world, with a rich history dating back to the 18th century. As a major world power, Russia's military plays a significant role in global security and geopolitics. To understand the structure and hierarchy of the Russian Army, it's essential to familiarize yourself with its military ranks. Here, we'll delve into the 10 Russian Army military ranks you should know.

The Russian Army's rank structure is based on the Soviet-era system, with some modifications introduced in the post-Soviet period. The ranks are divided into three main categories: enlisted personnel, non-commissioned officers (NCOs), and officers. Let's explore the 10 key ranks in the Russian Army, starting from the lowest to the highest.

1. Ryadovoy (Private)

The lowest rank in the Russian Army is Ryadovoy, equivalent to a Private in Western militaries. Ryadovoy is an entry-level rank, typically held by new recruits. Soldiers in this rank perform basic tasks and are under the supervision of higher-ranking personnel.

2. Yefreitor (Junior Sergeant)

Yefreitor is the next rank above Ryadovoy and is equivalent to a Junior Sergeant. Soldiers in this rank have completed their initial training and have gained some experience. They are responsible for leading small teams and performing tasks under the guidance of senior NCOs.

Russian Army Non-Commissioned Officers Ranks

3. Mladshiy Serzhant (Senior Sergeant)

Mladshiy Serzhant is a senior NCO rank, equivalent to a Senior Sergeant. Soldiers in this rank have significant experience and are responsible for leading larger teams, providing guidance to junior personnel, and performing complex tasks.

4. Serzhant (Sergeant)

Serzhant is a higher NCO rank, equivalent to a Sergeant. Soldiers in this rank have extensive experience and are responsible for leading sections, providing training, and performing administrative tasks.

Russian Army Commissioned Officers Ranks

5. Starshiy Serzhant (Staff Sergeant)

Starshiy Serzhant is a senior NCO rank, equivalent to a Staff Sergeant. Soldiers in this rank have significant experience and are responsible for leading platoons, providing training, and performing administrative tasks.

6. Praporshchik (Junior Lieutenant)

Praporshchik is the lowest commissioned officer rank, equivalent to a Junior Lieutenant. Officers in this rank are typically new to the officer corps and are responsible for leading platoons, performing administrative tasks, and providing training.

7. Lieutenant (Poruchik)

Poruchik is a commissioned officer rank, equivalent to a Lieutenant. Officers in this rank have gained some experience and are responsible for leading companies, providing training, and performing administrative tasks.

8. Starshiy Lieutenant (Senior Lieutenant)

Starshiy Lieutenant is a senior commissioned officer rank, equivalent to a Senior Lieutenant. Officers in this rank have significant experience and are responsible for leading battalions, providing training, and performing administrative tasks.

9. Kapitan (Captain)

Kapitan is a senior commissioned officer rank, equivalent to a Captain. Officers in this rank have extensive experience and are responsible for leading regiments, providing training, and performing administrative tasks.

10. Polkovnik (Colonel)

Polkovnik is a high-ranking commissioned officer rank, equivalent to a Colonel. Officers in this rank have significant experience and are responsible for leading brigades, providing training, and performing administrative tasks.

In conclusion, understanding the Russian Army's military ranks is essential for grasping the structure and hierarchy of the military. From the lowest rank of Ryadovoy to the highest rank of Polkovnik, each rank plays a vital role in the functioning of the Russian Army.

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Russian Army's military ranks. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! If you have any questions or need further clarification on any of the ranks, feel free to ask.