SOVIET TACTICAL AIR SIGNAL UNITS

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: NGA Records (Formerly NIMA)
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP78T05162A000500010030-3
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: T
• Document Page Count: 28
• Document Creation Date: December 28, 2016
• Document Release Date: June 20, 2011
• Sequence Number: 30
• Publication Date: October 1, 1977
• Content Type: REPORT

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Top Secret
PHOTOGRAPHIC
I NTERPRETATION
REPORT
NATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHIC
INTERPRETATION CENTER
SOVIET TACTICAL AIR SIGNAL UNITS
1S1
Top Secret
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OCTOBER 1 J25X1
Copy 96
PI R-026/77
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Warning Notice
Sensitive Intelligence Sources and Methods Involved
(WNINTEL)
NATIONAL SECURITY INFORMATION
Unauthorized Disclosure Subject to Criminal Sanctions
NOFORN- Not Releasable to Foreign Nationals
NOCONTRACT Not Releasable to Contractors or
Contractor/Consultants
PROPIN- Caution-Proprietary Information Involved
USIBONLY- USIB Departments Only
ORCON- Dissemination and Extraction of Information
Controlled by Originator
REL This Information has been Authorized for
Release to . .
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Top Secret RUFF
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Page
Tactical Air Signal Battalion ............................................................ 3
Mission and General Description .................................................... ..3
Tactical Air Signal Garrison ........................................................... 3
Equipment and Unit Structure ........................................................ 4
Signal Company ......................................_.............................4
Mobile Airfield GSE Unit ............................................................ 5
AC&W Radars and AC&W Radar Company ............................................ 5
ATC Company .......................................................................5
Tactical Air Signal Regiment ............................................................ 10
Subordination .......................................................................10
Mission ............................................................................11
Description .........................................................................12
Nondivisional Radio Relay Battalion ................................................. 18
Radio Battalion ...................................................................20
Mobile Airfield GSE Unit ........................................................... 20
Communications Center Unit ....................................................... 21
AC&W Radar Battalion ............................................................ 21
Transport and Supply Company ..................................................... 22
Other TAA Regiment-Associated Units and Equipment .................................. 22
ECM Equipment ..................................................................22
SAF Racom Station ................................................................24
Special Purpose Aircraft ............................................................ 24
Training ..........................................................................24
Equipment Distribution Process ..................................................... 25
Tactical Air Signal Field Application ................................................. 26
Illustrated Equipment .................................................................27
Nondivisional Radios ................................................................28
Radios .............................................................................30
Mobile Airfield GSE .................................................................31
AC&W Radars ......................................................................33
ECM Equipment ....................................................................34
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SOVIET TACTICAL AIR SIGNAL UNITS (S)
ABSTRACT
1. (S/WNINTEL) This report presents an imagery-derived analysis of the organizational
structure of Soviet tactical air army (TAA) signal units. COMINT and other collateral data have
been used to acquire Soviet TAA unit designators and to substantiate pertinent information ob-
tained from photography.
2. (S/WNINTEL) This report contains descriptions of the two basic types of TAA signal
units, a chart comparing TAA signal units with early warning (EW) units, and two conceptual
depictions of deployed TAA signal units. The report includes 108 annotated photographs, two
maps, four charts, and two line drawings.
INTRODUCTION
3. (TSR) The Soviet Air Force (SAF) allocates air signal units to its TAAs. These air signal
units were designed to enhance the command communications necessary to effectively integrate
tactical air operations with ground forces operations. Monitoring of air signal units could provide in-
dications of impending command post exercises (CPX), joint forces field training exercises (FTX),
or other activities.
4. (TS During wartime, the Soviets assign a TAA to a Front organization.'
One of the main missions of Soviet Frontal Aviation (Tactical Aviation) is to provide close air sup-
port (CAS)2 to ground forces operations. Practice in CAS tactics is usually conducted in the context
of joint forces operations within large training/maneuver areas. In peacetime, as well as wartime,
Soviet TAA signal units must respond to several fundamental requirements essential to the success
of joint forces operations. These include:
a. Providing navigational support to combat aircraft entering or leaving the zone of
operation;
b. Providing coordination of air operations with ground forces operations;
c. Providing the mobility needed to move with the Front-100 kilometers (km)/day, ac-
cording to Soviet military doctrine-against the enemy;' and
d. Providing reliable, multichannel, secure communications links.
SKA
Nl~~~ N
GUMANY~
SHCHUCH j
Minsk
IVANO-FRAN,KOVS~ '
BLACK
1F.A
v j Kapustin Yar
~ISJr
BARENTS
man,sk'
Sary-Shagan
~.id 6 I.ak~h
1 HufA
TALBY KURGAN
Yakutsk
A,Aady \, co
^ ~ iCiO
I'divostok
F' U
I APAN
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5. (TSRI___________ Analysis of the organizational structure of TAA signal units reveals that
they are equipped to fulfill the above requirements.
6. (TSR1
Satellite photography shows that two echelons of air signal units exist in the TAA
organizational structure: a tactical air signal battalion, subordinate to a TAA division, and a tac-
tical air signal regiment, subordinate to a TAA. Soviets refer to the tactical air signal battalion as
OBS RTO (independent signal and radio technical support battalion) and to the tactical air signal
regiment as OPSAU (independent signal regiment serving the air army).5 The TAA is ad-
ministratively controlled (logistics, personnel, training, etc.) by SAF Headquarters, Moscow, but
operationally controlled by the military district (MD)/Front commander. Air signal units, on the
contrary, are administratively and operationally controlled by the units to which they are
subordinate.
BASIC DESCRIPTION
Tactical Air Signal Battalion
Mission and General Description
7. (TSR) Tactical air signal battalions have been identified at eight locations in the Soviet
Union and at one location in Mongolia (Figure 1). The three-fold mission of an air signal battalion is
to assist in establishing the command and control network of the TAA division command post (CP),
to provide various radar and vectoring functions for air forces, and to provide auxiliary and forward
dispersal airfield support to an aviation unit during emergency or planned operations.
8. (TS Six of the nine battalions (Shchuchin, Ivano-Frankovsk, Tiraspol,
Taldy Kurgan, Olovyannaya, and Ulaanbaatar) are at or near an operational airbase in the vicinity
of a TAA division headquarters.6 These six battalions, with the exception of Taldy Kurgan, also
have in common a standard section obstacle course.' This type of obstacle course has been seen at
almost all operational Soviet military airfields. No TAA division headquarters is known to exist in
the vicinity of the Uch-Aral, Ussuriysk, and Belogorsk air signal battalions. These three installa-
tions do not include a standard section obstacle course. Each of these battalions is near a ground
force army barracks and a helicopter airfield. It is suspected that these battalions may be connected
in some way with a ground army liaison function.e Tactical air signal battalions have not been iden-
tified in those MDs which are not known to have a TAA organization. These include the Moscow,
North Caucasus, Ural, Volga, and Siberian MDs. The following is a list of the tactical air signal
battalions:
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Installation Name Geographic Coordinates BE No MD
USATC
Series 200
Sheet No
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Belogorsk Airfield 50.53-38N 128.28-22E
Far East
203-8
Ivano-Frankovsk Afld 48-53-17N 024-41-30E
Carpa-
thian
232-20
Olovyannaya Afld 51-01-05N 115-25-42E
Trans-
baikal
202-6
Shchuchin Afld 53-36-02N 024-46-06E
Belo-
russian
168-18
Taldy Kurgan Army Bks AL 2 45-00-OON 078-20-30E
Central
Asian
244-18
Tiraspol Army Bks 46-50-40N 029-36-45E
Odessa
250-7
Uch-Aral Army Bks AL 3 46-10-50N 080-56-40E
Central
Asia
244.14
Ulaanbaatar Army Bks AL 1 47-55-30N 106.59-30E
Mongolian
286-5
Ussuriysk Army Bks West AL 3 43-47.30N 131-56-16E
Far East
291-1
Tactical Air Signal Garrison
9. (TS A typical air signal battalion garrison consists of a headquarters/ ad-
ministration building, eight single-story barracks, one messhall, 12 support buildings, and two vehi-
cle storage buildings. The bulk of battalion equipment is in open storage (Figure 2). An air signal
battalion is estimated to have about the same number of personnel as an EW battalion-
approximately 300 enlisted personnel and officers.' When tactical air signal battalions are located
at airfields, the personnel probably share the garrison with personnel supporting the airfield. Per-
sonnel of the three battalions possibly connected with a ground army aviation area are housed in the
nearby army garrison or lodged in their own separate casern.
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Equipment and Unit Structure
10. (TSR) Three types of equipment are common to air signal battalions: signal, mobile air-
field GSE, and aircraft control and warning (AC&W) radars. Although this equipment is generally
parked at random, for the purpose of this report a tactical air signal battalion has been categorized
into a signal company, a mobile airfield GSE unit, and three or four AC&W radar companies (Chart
1, Figures 3-5). Examples of equipment associated with tactical air signal battalions are il-
lustrated in the final section of this report. Figure 6 is a conceptual drawing of a dispersal airfield in-
corporating the three major components of an air signal battalion. Figures 7 through 10 are ad-
ditional examples of tactical air signal battalions.
Chart 1. Tactical Air Division-Level Signal Battalion
This chart in its entirety is classified TOP SECRET RUFF
Tactical
Air
Sit' nal
Battalion
Headquarters
an
ServtceS's
Signal Company
Mobile Airfield GSE Unit.
AC&W Radar Company
4 BTR-64P/6
0PB
4 UAZ-452 marker beacon
trans-
4 LONG TRACK
MC
mitten
4 THIN SKIN B.
2 R-820 serie
s
4 ZiL-130 marker beacon t
ransmitter
4 FLAT FACE
_R-800 serie
s
4.searchlight truck
5 SIDE NET
4 R-401/405
4 flashing light beacon
2 SPOON RESTC/D
4 P-299M typ
e
1 SMALL CROSS DF
1 BAR LOCK
1 P-299M co
mmo
center
2 R-133 TWI
N EAR
4 R-118 BM3
8 R-102M/14
0
NOTE: These figures reflect the largest number of each type of equipment observed in any air signal battalion at any one time.
Top Secret
11. (TSRSignal Company. The signal company comprises the following equip-
ment: tactical command and control mobile communications vehicles such as the R-102M/140,9 R-
118 BM3, R-401/405, P-299M type, and the R-133 TWIN EAR troposcatter relay set; a combat con-
trol vehicle, BTR-60P/60PB forward air controller (FAC) ; and various R-800 series command and
control radio vehicles which are indicative of an SAF unit.
12. (TS The BTR-60P/60PB FAC is one of the key pieces of equipment in the
identification of a tactical air signal battalion. This combat control vehicle is distinguished by the
presence of an auxiliary generator mounted at the rear of either a BTR-60P or BTR-64PB armored
personnel carrier (APC). It operates as an FAC and is equipped with a variety of communications
equipment, including the R-829/832 very high frequency (VHF) discone antennas and R-401/405
VHF/ultrahigh frequency (UHF) radio relay antennas (Figures 3 and 4). This type of equipment
would be essential in forward air control operations which include strike reconnaissance, strike/in-
terdiction control, and CAS coordination for combat missions. Aircraft are guided to the target area
by the FAC commander, who is familiar with ground operations and trained to control air strikes.3
The BTR-60P or BTR-60PB APC affords the FAC commander and crew some protection from
hostile fire.
*R-800 series is the general term used to describe ground-to-air radio vehicles with an R-designation of 800 through 899.
These vehicles are almost exclusively used by Soviet air forces. R-800 series are also capable of communicating with other
ground radio vehicles.
,
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13. (TSRJ Besides performing a function essential to the success of CAS opera-
tions, the FAC commander also serves as a tactical air advisor to appropriate ground commanders
conducting the ground phase of the operation. Prior to this report, the BTR-60P/60PB FAC was
considered to be associated with ground forces EW units. However, it is now believed that this vehi-
cle is and has been utilized by the SAF. Chart 2 contrasts the major identifying elements associated
with both EW units and tactical air signal units.
14. (TSR) Mobile Airfield GSE Unit. The GSE unit consists of the following mobile airfield
GSE: four flashing light beacons, four searchlight trucks, at least one mobile radio direction-finder
(DF) station, and four to eight marker beacon transmitters. The function of this equipment is to
assist in the navigational support provided when landing aircraft on natural-surface runways in the
absence of an air traffic control (ATC) company (to be discussed later). This equipment can also be
used in conjunction with AC&W radars to vector an aircraft (maintain it on a predetermined
course) through a zone of operation.
AC&W Radars and AC&W Radar Company
15. (TS AC&W radars (also known as EW radars) are used by PVO
Strany and PVO Voysk air defense forces'? and now appear to be supporting tactical air signal units
as well. In addition to performing the functions of ground-controlled intercept (GCI), air warning
(AW), acquisition, and EW, AC&W radars are used to direct incoming aircraft on a predetermined
course and altitude (vector) into a zone of operation until control can be assumed by an FAC. The
site from which the AC&W radars operate can also provide an aircraft with an additional check on
its time and distance to the target area. This site is referred to as a vectoring and target designation
point.
16. (TS The AC&W radars organic to the AC&W company are LONG
TRACK, THIN SKIN B, SIDE NET, FLAT FACE, SPOON REST C/D, and BAR LOCK radars.
Figure 5 shows camouflage and concealment employed by an AC&W company at a dispersal air-
field. These radars exhibit several characteristics such as widely dispersed frequency bands, fast
set-up/take-down time' (with the exception of the BAR LOCK radar), overlapping operating
ranges, reliability, excellent tracking capability, and high mobility. As a result of its mobility
characteristic, an AC&W radar company reportedly is capable of moving more than 100 miles in
two days, allowing for time to stop twice to set up its radars and to continue directing the relocation
of an air regiment.?
ATC Company
17. (TSR) The primary responsibility for establishing a dispersal airfield lies with the ATC
company rather than the air signal battalion. An ATC company is subordinate to an airbase sup-
port battalion* which is allocated to every operational airbase where an air unit of regimental
strength is assigned.
*The function of the airbase support battalion is to provide the basic supplies and services to efficiently operate the home
base and alternate airfields. Even though the airbase support battalion is operationally subordinate to the air regiment it
supports, it does not usually move with the air regiment if that regiment is permanently relocated to another airbase.
Chart 2. Comparative Chart of Tactical Air Signal Units and EW Units"
This chart in its entirety is classified TOP SECRET RUFF
Non-
Div
Radios
Tac Air Sig
Battalion
EW Battalion
Tac Air Sig
Regiment
EW Regiment
Div TWIN
Radios EAR
BTR-6DP/ R-122
6OPB PRONG
FAC REST
R-800 AC&W
Series Radars
Standard
Section
Afld Obstacle
GSE Course
'NOTE: The information on this chart is considered accurate as of 1 August 1 977.
(Continued p. 10)
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TACTICAL AIR SIGNAL' BATTALION
ATA DISPERSAL AIRFIELD
FLASRIN3 LIGHT
THINSKIN S ,..
z MARKER BEACON
ER
TRAN M ITT
FLAT FACE
SI?99N: REST D
_ M L COgg,
FIGURE 6. CONCEPTUAL DRA WING
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R-82OSERIE .'
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18. (TSR_ Since an air signal battalion could be observed at the same airbase as an
ATC company, certain types of equipment are used to distinguish the two units. Ground control ap-
proach radars such as ONE EYE, TWO SPOT, and LONG TALK and instrument landing system
equipment such as THIN PATH, TALL PATH, HAY series, and the RSBN-4N short-range
navigational beacon' form the bulk of the equipment and are exclusively organic to an ATC com-
pany.
19. (TSR) At Tiraspol Airfield, the equipment organic to both the ATC company and the tac-
tical air signal battalion are maintained in a common motor pool (Figure 11). A fence separates the
equipment and vehicle storage building of the ATC company from the area occupied by the air
signal battalion. If the fighter unit based there should deploy to its dispersal airfield, the ATC com-
pany has the responsibility to activate that dispersal airfield. Tiraspol's air signal battalion could
then be available to activate another dispersal airfield, if required. As territory is gained by the
Frontal units, the tactical air signal battalion would be used to activate airfields in this area.
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Top Secret
Tactical Air Signal Regiment
Subordination
20. (TSR) Tactical air signal regiments have been identified in nine MDs in the Soviet Union
. A list of the tactical air signal regiments follows.
(All of the IDHS codes of the installations listed are subject to change; two installations in one city
complex combine to form one regiment.)
USATC
Installation Name Geographic Coordinate
s BE No
MD
Series 200
Sheet No
Alma-Ata Army Bks N AL 7 43-22-56N 076.59-30E
Central
0329-2
Asian
Chita Radcom Sta Kashtak 52-05.46N 113-25-56E
Trans-
0199-22
baikal
Chita Army Bks AL 13 52-02.56N 113-26.20E
Trans-
0199.22
baikal
Khabarovsk Army Bks AL 3 48.30-1ON 135-04-55E
Far East
0204-22
Khabarovsk Radcom Xmtr 48.28-49N 135.07-51E
Far East
0204-22
Station Airfield 1
Kiyev Vehicle Park* 50-25-OON 030-27-20E
Kiyev
0233-9
Lvov/Sknilov Airfield 49-48-47N 023.57.07E
Carpa-
0232.15
thian
Minsk Army Bks Stepyanka 53-54-34N 027-40.17E
Belo-
0168-14
SE AL 11
russian
Odessa Army Bks Tatarka 46-27.22N 030-40-53E
Odessa
0250.8
North AL 13
Odessa Airfield Central 46-25-40N 030.40.37E
Odessa
0250.8
Riga Military School 56-57.20N 024-04-20E
Baltic
0153-16
Tbilisi Army Bks Samgori 41-41-20N 044-53-DOE
Trans-
0325-12
AL 20
caucasus
Tbilisi AW Facility 41-42-52N 044-49-45E
Trans-
0325-12
caucasus
*The barracks area associated with this vehicle park has not been located.
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 o KINCa,4M
Marx )) &
?A WO WA
J' I) I. A N
/ 'Kazan
Perm /;
--
.V)gngrad
J ~
Sverdlo
fKapustin Var i~Kyshtym
f
TBILIS~ J I%
N G r~
1
SWEDEN
Sary-Shaan
(PIGS 42a
21. (TSR The regiments are in the general vicinity of both TAA headquarters
and MD headquarters (Chart 3).3 A tactical air signal regiment is probably in each MD which in-
cludes a TAA. A tactical air signal regiment has not been located in those MDs without a known
TAA organization. The subordination relationship between SAF Headquarters, Moscow, and an
air
signal regiment is depicted in the diagram below;
Mission
FIGURE 12. LOCATIONS OF SOVIET TACTICAL AIR SIGNAL REGIMENTS
ISAF
MD
TAA
SIG RGT
22. (SECRET) The Soviets probably established the air signal regiment during the post-
World War II years. It was then that combat support elements were probably established for
the
newly organized independent SAF.
23. (S/WNINTEL) Information concerning the mission and functions of an air signal regi-
ment was obtained from a former member of the SAF 43rd Independent Communications Regiment
in Odessa." The mission of an air signal regiment is to establish communications links between the
TAA CPs (main, alternate, and probably rear) and its subordinate CPs at natural-surface (disper-
sal) airfields.11 The regiment is also equipped to establish communications links with MD
/Front
headquarters, other Front elements, other aviation units, and higher echelons. Figure 13 illustrates
a simplified, conceptualized projection of the primary communications links established by an air
signal regiment during field deployment.
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AA
DIVISION
CP
ATC COMPANY'S FIELD - -- AIR SIGNAL REGIMENT LINES OF COMMUNICATIONS
AA DIVISION LINES OF COMMUNICATIONS
FLYING REGIMENTAL CPA
T A NATURAL-SURFACE AIRFIELD
FIGURE 13. CONCEPTUAL ILLUSTRATION OF PRIMARY COMMUN
(CATIONS LINKS DURING TACTICAL AIR SIGNAL FIELD DEPLOYMENT
Tac Air Signal Regt
Chita Army Bks AL 13
Khabarovsk Army Bks AL 8
Kiyev Vehicle Park
Lvov/Sknilov Airfield
Minsk Army Bks Stepyanka
SE AL 11
Odessa Airfield Central
Riga Military School
Tbilisi Army Bks Samgori AL 20
Tbilisi AW Facility
Chart 3. Tactical Air Signal Regiments and Related SAF Installations
This chart in its entirety is classified TOP SECRET RUFF
73rd AA
Central Asia MD
23rd AA
Transbaikal MD
15th AA
Baltic MD
Air
Army/M D 3
34th AA
Transcaucasus MD
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OTHER SAF
AVIATION FORCES
COMMAND POINT!
COMMUNICATIONS CENTER
(PASS ZAS EQUIPPED)
Alma-Ata Radcom A AM BC
Xmtr Pokrovka
Sta At Id 1
Unk
Unk
Prob SAF
Radcom Station
Central Afid West
Unk
Unk
TAC AIR SIG
BATTALION'S
FIELD
YPJC 8-4208
Nearest Airfield
Alma-Ata Airfield North
Chita Northwest Airfield
Khabarovsk Airfield
Kiyev/Zhulyany Airfield
Lvov/Sknilov Airfield
Minsk/Stepyanka Airfield
Odessa Airfield Central
Riga Central Airfield
Tbilisi/Vazianj Airfield
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Description
24. (TSR) Six representative air signal regiments have been selected to illustrate the basic
features common to all the regiments. Chita (Figure 14), Khabarovsk (Figures 15 and 16), Alma-
Ata (Figure 17), Minsk (Figure 18), Odessa (Figures 19 and 20), and Rangsdorf 2 (Figure 21) appear
to be the best equipped and most active of the ten regiments identified.
25. (TSR) It is estimated that a typical air signal regiment garrison comprises approximately
700 to 1,000 personnel.13 The garrison contains a headquarters/administration building, a messhall,
barracks facilities, several support buildings, at least two vehicle storage buildings, and a standard
section obstacle course.
26. (TSR) Equipment stored in the regiment's vehicle storage areas is similar to the types of
equipment found in the air signal battalion. However, unlike the battalion, the communications
equipment is parked in a definite unit structure and in greater numbers. Also, nondivisional* com-
munications equipment (R-408 troposcatter relay, R-410 troposcatter relay, and the R-400/404) is
not generally seen in the air signal battalion.
27. (TSR) The greater numbers of communications equipment seen with the regiment is ex-
pected since the regiment may be tasked with extensive duty assignments generated by air defense,
tactical air, ground, and higher level authorities. A given regiment (Chart 4) comprises a non-
divisional radio relay battalion; two radio battalions; a mobile airfield GSE unit; a communications
center unit; a transport and supply company; and, in some instances, elements of an AC&W radar
battalion (see paragraph 39). Examples of equipment associated with tactical air signal regiments
are illustrated in the final section of this report. The regiment's table of organization and equipment
(TO&E) emphasizes the diversity of communications equipment well suited for contacting the
aforementioned authorities.
*Nondivisional refers to ground forces communications equipment usually organic to army and/or Front-level units.
(Continued p. 18)
rz=
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Chart 4. Tactical Air Army-Level Signal Regiment
This chart in its entirety is classified TOP SECRET RUFF
Tactical Air
Signal Regiment
Headquarters and Services
Nondivisional Radio
Relay Battalion
Mobile Airfield
GSE Unit
Commo Center Unit
(pons ZAS equipped)
6 R-410 set
6 searchlight truck
3 P-299M commo center
6 R-408 set
4 flashing light beacon
5 P-299M type, commo
16 R-409
UAZ-452 marker beacon
center assoc
6 R-400/404 set
transmitter
4 ZIL-157/131, commo
6 R-133 set
ZI L- 130 marker beacon
center assoc
transmitter
(expandable van truck)
SMALL CROSS DF
1 M RL-1 meteorological radar
3 3 MAZ-500 fuel servicer
Radio Battalion
1 prob R-110 set
1 poss R-1 10 type set
1 long-range commo set
9 R-102M/140
7 R-820M
2 R-820 series
30 R-800 series
10 R-401/405
3 R-409
6 BTR-60P/PB FAC
3 R-1 18 BM3
14 GAZ-63, radio van truck
2 special generator truck
1 P-284 cable-laying tractor
1 cable plow
2 ATC tower vehicle
Transport and Supply
Company
25 ZIL-131 cargo truck
20 cargo truck
8 DDP trailer
13 field kitchen
AC&W Battalion
4 LONG TRACK
1 SIDE NET
4 THIN SKIN B
1 ODD PAIR
1 FLAT FACE
1 SPOON REST C
1 SPOON REST D
1 BAR LOCK
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28. (TSR) Nondivisional Radio Relay Battalion. During the spring of 1976, a nondivisional
radio relay battalion was identified with the air signal regiment at Chita (Figures 22 and 23),
Khabarovsk (Figure 16), and Alma-Ata (Figure 24). Prior to this time, air signal regiments con-
sisted of two radio battalions, a communications control unit, a mobile airfield GSE unit, an
AC&W battalion, and a transport and supply company. Two to six TWIN DISH (R-408) sets, two
TWIN EAR (R-133) troposcatter sets, two R-409, and one probable R-110 high frequency (HF) set
were the only nondivisional equipment seen with an air signal regiment. The addition of the non-
divisional radio relay battalion significantly upgraded the regiment's capability to communicate at
higher echelons and with a greater number of channels.
29. (TSRO This battalion consists of six TWIN PLATE'' (R-410) troposcatter
relay sets,* six TWIN EAR" (R-133) troposcatter relays sets, six R-400/404 UHF radio relay sets,
and 16 R 409**VHF/UHF CATS PAW radio relay vehicles. The equipment from each of the three
nondivisional radio relay battalions identified was stored in an open vehicle parking area separate
from each of the regiment's two radio battalions. The quantity of nondivisional radio relay equip-
ment given above is believed to be the minimum authorized to each air signal regiment.
30. (TSR) Two TWIN PLATE sets and 12 R-400/404 radio relay vehicles were first observed
at the Minsk air signal regiment during the spring of 1976 (Figure 25). The introduction of this
equipment at Minsk and the construction of a new vehicle storage building adjacent to the radio
battalion area suggest that a nondivisional radio relay battalion will be deployed there in the near
future.
31. (TS The purpose of an air signal regiment's nondivisional radio relay
equipment is exemplified by the many high level subscribers that employ troposcatter relay and
nondivisional radio equipment. For instance, satellite imagery have
detected TWIN PLATE equipment with MD/Front-level authorities and army-level authorities;
COMINT sources have recorded TWIN DISH participating in PVO Strany' and General Staff
*A set, when used to describe troposcatter equipment, denotes two troposcatter relay antennas with one or more support
vehicles. When in an operational configuration, one or more sets make up either a troposcatter terminal station or a
troposcatter relay station.
**Note: The R-409 has also been seen with division-level signal battalions.
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(GS)16 communications networks; the R-400/404 and R-409 have been employed by army and Front
commands; and the TWIN EAR has been seen with mobile missile systems, ground forces units,
and Soviet air forces.
32. (S) Radio Battalion, Reports obtained from former members of the air signal regiment in
Riga" and Odessa" claimed that their respective regiments contained two radio battalions. Exam-
ples of radio battalions are seen in Figures 19, 26, and 27. The former members made no references
to a third battalion consisting of nondivisional radio relay equipment.
33. (TSR) Two well-defined vehicle parking areas were observed in the main storage area of
each of the six representative air signal regiments. The number of radio vehicles observed in each of
the two vehicle parking areas (battalion areas) varied from 30 to 80. These radios are listed in the
TO&E table (Chart 4). The number of radio vehicles listed in the chart reflect the largest number of
each type imaged at an installation at any one time. An accurate assessment of the actual numbers
of radio vehicles could not be determined because of such factors as covered vehicle storage (see Il-
lustrated Equipment, Mobile Airfield GSE, Figure 81). However, the overall types and numbers of
equipment observed are more than adequate to establish dependable communications links bet-
ween command-level units. Flight operation equipment such as the R-800 series radios would be
used to communicate with aircraft, direct emergency rerouting, and assist in the ATC and landing
of aircraft.
34. (TSR) Mobile Airfield GSE Unit. Mobile airfield GSE is not parked in its own unit area,
with the exception of that at Chita (Figure 28), but is mixed with other vehicles organic to the radio
battalions. At least four flashing light beacons, four searchlight trucks, four UAZ-452 marker
beacon transmitters, and four SMALL CROSS DF vehicles are probably allocated to each radio
battalion.
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42. (TSRU) SAF Radcom Station. At least one fixed HF radio communications (radcom)
facility is believed to support each TAA. It is usually adjacent to elements of the TAA's signal regi-
ment. An HF radcom station was observed at or near six of the ten regiments. These included Chita,
Alma-Ata, Rangsdorf, Kiyev (Figure 34), Odessa, and Khabarovsk. Communications vehicles
organic to a nearby tactical air signal regiment have been seen at each of these radcom stations
(Figure 35). Routine message traffic to each TAA from SAF Headquarters, Moscow, is probably
received at such facilities. Under certain circumstances special notifications of unit alerts, warning
of an attack, CPX, FTX, and contigency directives are probably sent to a TAA headquarters via HF
radio communications. Chart 3 lists these facilities. It is believed that the Soviets emphasize the
importance of maintaining mobile signal units responsible for directing combat operations during
an emergency. Accordingly, air signal regiments are equipped with mobile communications equip-
ment to supplement the SAF command and control network.
43. (TSR) Special Purpose Aircraft. Each of the tactical air signal regiment installations is
close to an SAF airfield or a combination SAF and civilian airfield (Chart 3). Presumably, each MD
headquarters is also near an airfield that it uses for administrative, tactical, and dignitary flights.
Special purpose aircraft, such as an airborne CP/relay link, are probably authorized for use by each
MD although no other evidence supports this claim. Communications links between special pur-
pose aircraft and tactical air signal regiments are feasible because of the many R-800 series ground-
to-air command and control radios organic to the regiments. One such special purpose aircraft was
identified at Alma-Ata Airfield North. A newly identified modified CURL is occasionally observed
parked on a hardstand at this airfield (Figure 36). The modified CURL appears to have blade an-
tenna attachments, suggesting that it could be used as an MD special purpose aircraft. Two
modified CURL have also been seen at Chita Northwest Airfield.
44. (TSR) Training. Basic training for recruits, driver training, and specialized radio/radar
training is probably conducted at the regimental level. Noncommissioned officers (NCOs) probably
receive specialized training at technical schools in the USSR. One such SAF communications train-
ing center and probable NCO school was identified on overhead photography at Smolensk Army
Barracks Southwest) (Figure 37 shows the physical layout of and
communications equipment usually observed at the Smolensk installation.
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45. (TSR) Air signal regiments at Minsk and Chita use the LONG TRACK radar (and other
radars) to train recruits in operation and maintenance. One LONG TRACK radar with its sail
removed is generally observed in the center of the AC&W battalion areas of both installations.
46. (TSR Specialized radio training for each regiment is probably conducted us-
ing radio equipment mounted in detached van bodies placed on hardstands (Figure 21). Each regi-
ment usually conducts its own field training exercise for about two weeks, twice a year during sum-
mer and winter.' The frequency of large-scale CPX or FTX is unknown but is thought to be minimal
in view of the fact that the last extensive exercise ("DVINA" maneuver19) occurred in the summer of
1970.
47. (TSR) Equipment Distribution Process. The SAF distributes equipment to airfields, air
force schools, and air signal units through regional air depots.* Communications equipment, GSE,
and air surveillance radars found at these depots are similar to those seen with tactical air signal
units. In the event of equipment loss as a result of hostile actions, it is conceivable that the damaged
equipment could be replaced by equipment drawn from an air depot.
*The Soviets can also deliver equipment directly to their installations from production plants.
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48. (TSR) An example demonstrating the probable delivery of communications equipment
from an air depot to an air signal unit was obtained from photography of the Chita area in early spr-
ing 1976. Two TWIN PLATE (R-410) troposcatter relay sets were seen at Chita Air Depot with GSE
for the first time (Figure 38)0 two TWIN PLATE sets
were observed at Chita Radcom Station Kashtak, also for the first time (Figure 23). New TWIN
PLATE relay equipment was also seen at three other air signal regiments (Chita, Khabarovsk, and
Minsk) during spring 1976. This distribution pattern agrees with the usual Soviet logistical practice
of delivering one type of equipment to several military districts during the same timespan.
49. (TSR) Certain other ground forces-related radio stations, in addition to TWIN PLATE
troposcatter relay equipment, are maintained at air depots with GSE. In those depots where several
radio stations are usually maintained, it is reasonable to expect that they were requisitioned
specifically for air signal units.
50. (TSR Tactical Air Signal Field Application. The Khabarovsk signal regiment was
recently engaged in preparations for its probable summer training exercise for 1977
provided evidence that
TWIN PLATE (R-410) troposcatter relay equipment could have been used for this communications
activity.
51. (TSBP The Khabarovsk air signal regiment contains six TWIN PLATE sets which are
stored at this radcom station.0 one field-deployed TWIN PLATE set and a recently erec-
ted tent camp were seen just outside the nondivisional radio relay battalion vehicle park (Figure
39). A second TWIN PLATE set was absent from the same vehicle park. A four-day cessation period
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in the communications activity bega Coverage on this date (Figure 40) shows all of
the TWIN PLATE sets back in garrison. A continuation of the communications activity began
satellite imagery showed the same garrison partially vacated (Figure 41) and one
TWIN PLATE station operationally deployed 1.6 nautical miles (nm) from the garrison (Figure 42).
The regiment's troPoscatter equipment was probably a participant in the communications activity. 52. (TSR^It was later realized that this activity was probably a dress rehearsal for the Far
East Frontal Aviation CPX conducted during the second week in July 1977. The exercise involved
the main and alternate CPs of TAA headquarters, Khabarovsk, in communications with subor-
dinate composite divisions, reconnaissance groups, and utility groups.2D
53. (TS This example demonstrates the nature of activity that can be observed when air
signal regiments are deliberately monitored. Frequent monitoring of air signal regiments together
could provide useful indications and warnings infor-
mation
Illustrated Equipment
54. (TS The following 68 annotated photographs (Figures 43 through 110) depict
the bulk of the equipment mentioned in this report. Equipment seen in tactical air signal units is
presented with emphasis on the identifying features of the equipment during transit or in a tem-
porary storage configuration. In addition, photographs of ECM equipment are shown. The vehicles.
annotated in this report are referred to by their accepted nomenclature. The exceptions to this are
the long-range communications set (Figure 44), the possible R-110-type set (Figure 46), the P-
299M-type vehicle (Figure 72), the R-820 series radio (Figure 64), and R-800 series radio (Figure 65).
In these instances the equipment was assigned a tentative name based on their association with
other equipment of known functions and/or on the identification of their signature components.
These illustrations are grouped into five major categories for easy reference: Nondivisional Radios
(Figures 43-63), Radios (Figures 64-77), Mobile Airfield GSE (Figures 78-92), AC&W Radars
(Figures 93-104), and ECM Equipment (Figures 105-110).
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i op secret K U H-l
MAPS OR CHARTS
SAC. US Air Target Chart, Series 200, Various Sheet numbers, scale 1:200,000 (UNCLASSIFIED)
DOCUMENTS
1. DIA. DDI-1100-2-75, Soviet Ground Force Organization Guide, Jun 75 (SECRET
4. NPIC
25X1
6. DIA. DDI-1300-6B-76-SI, Soviet (U) Aircraft Order of Battle, Jul 76 (TOP SECRET
7. USAIIC. RAC-24/8002/76, Obstacle Courses Warsaw Pact Countries (U), Apr 76 (SECRE
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9. CIA OIA/LFD 175/77, R-102M/140 HF Radio Van (TOP SECRET RUFF 25X1
25X1
10. NPIC. PIR-002/77, Soviet Regiment-Sized Early Warning Facilities, USSR, Feb 77 (TOP SECR125X1
RUFF 25X1
11. DoD. 1-521-0287-73 (5607-08), 43rd Independent Air Communications Regiment Odessa, 19 Jun 73, Date of Info:
May 69-May 71 (CONFIDENTIAL)
14. USAIIC. RAC-24/8001/76, TWIN PLATE (U), Mar 76 (TOP SECRET RUFF
15. USAIIC. RAC-24/5011/75, TWIN EAR (U), May 75 (SECRET
16. DIA. DI-220-45-73-SAO, Soviet Signal Units, Feb 73 (TOP SECRET RUFF
25X1
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17. DoD. K-311/00391-77, Training at an Independent Signal Regiment in Riga, Baltic Military District, 24 Mar 77,
Date of Info: 1970-1972 (CONFIDENTIAL)
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RELATED DOCUMENT
USAREUR. PAM 30-60-7, Identification Guide, Soviet Box Bodied Vehicles (U), 4th ed, Part two, 2 Apr 76 (CON-
FIDENTIAL 25X1
REQUIREMENT
Project 12120ONF
25X1
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Tactical Air Command and Control Study, USSR (U), Apr 75 (T(25X1
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List of Conversion Factors by Classification
MILLIMETERS
0.0394
INCHES
KILOGRAMS
2.2046
POUNDS(AVOIR.)
CENTIMETERS
0.3937
INCHES
POUNDS(AVOIR.)
0.4536
KILOGRAMS
INCHES
25.4000
MILLIMETERS
SHORT TONS
0.9072
METRIC TONS
INCHES
2.5400
CENTIMETERS
METRIC TONS
1.1023
SHORT TONS
FEET
0.3048
METERS
METRIC TONS
0.9842
LONG TONS
FEET
0.0003
KILOMETERS
LONG TONS
1.0160
METRIC TONS
YARDS
0.9144
METERS
METERS
3.2808
FEET
METERS
0.0005
MILES(NAUTICAL)
METERS
1.0936
YARDS
KILOMETERS
3280.8400
FEET
KILOMETERS
0.6214
MILES(STATUTE)
KILOMETERS
0.5400
MILES(NAUTICAL)
LITERS
0.2642
GALLONS
MILES(STATUTE)
1.6093
KILOMETERS
LITERS
0.0063
BARRELS(POL)
MILES(NAUTICAL)
6076.1154
FEET
LITERS
0.0010
CUBIC METERS
MILES(NAUTICAL)
1.8520
KILOMETERS
GALLONS
3.7854
LITERS
MILES(NAUTICAL)
1852.0000
METERS
GALLONS
0.1337
CUBIC FEET
GALLONS
0.0238
BARRELS(POL)
GALLONS
0.0038
CUBIC METERS
BUSHELS
0.0352
CUBIC METERS
CUBIC FEET
7.4805
GALLONS
CUBIC FEET
0.1781
BARRELS(POL)
SQUARE CENTIMETERS
0.1550
SQUARE INCHES
CUBIC FEET
0.0283
CUBIC METERS
SQUARE INCHES
6.4516
SQUARE CENTIMETERS
CUBIC YARDS
0.7646
CUBIC METERS
SQUARE FEET
0.0929
SQUARE METERS
BARRELS(PDL)
158.9873
LITERS
BARRELS(P0L)
42
0000
GALLONS
SQUARE YARDS
0.8361
SQUARE METERS
.
SQUARE METERS
10.7639
SQUARE FEET
BARRELS(POL)
5.6146
CUBIC FEET
SQUARE METERS
1.1960
SQUARE YARDS
BARRELS(POL)
0.1590
CUBIC METERS
CUBIC METERS
1000
0000
LITERS
SQUARE METERS
1.0000
CENTARES
.
SQUARE METERS
0.0002
ACRES
CUBIC METERS
264.1721
GALLONS
SQUARE METERS
0.0001
HECTARES
CUBIC METERS
35.3147
CUBIC FEET
ACRES
4046.8564
SQUARE METERS
CUBIC METERS
28.3776
BUSHELS
ACRES
0.4047
HECTARES
CUBIC METERS
6.2898
BARRELS(POL)
HECTARES
10000.0000
SQUARE METERS
CUBIC METERS
1.3080
CUBIC YARDS
HECTARES
2.4711
ACRES
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