AirDefense Academy · Contents · Chapter 1 · Nederlandse versie
Chapter 1: Introduction — the VKS
What the Russian Aerospace Forces are, how they came about and which three components they consist of. Plus: how to use this learning environment.
1.1What is the VKS?
The VKS — Vozdushno-Kosmicheskiye Sily — are the air and space component of the Russian armed forces.
Read §1.1 →1.2From imperial air service to VKS
Russian military aviation has a long and turbulent history. Understanding that line helps to place current doctrine: much of what the VKS does today traces directly back to the Soviet legacy.
Read §1.2 →1.3The three components
The VKS consists of three branches. Each gets its own in-depth chapter further on.
Read §1.3 →1.4About this learning environment
This learning environment is intended as a reference and study aid on the structure and operations of the VKS. It is built around short, self-contained topics, with diagrams, tables and key points.
Read §1.4 →1.5The VKS since 2022
The war in Ukraine is the greatest test and the greatest shock to the VKS since the Cold War.
Read §1.5 →