April 13 is the Day of the Russian Air Defense Forces: the history and traditions of the holiday

In Russia, on the second Sunday of April, the 13th, they celebrate the Day of the Air Defense Forces (Air Defense), a holiday of specialists who monitor the airspace of our country around the clock. When the holiday appeared and how it is celebrated in the ranks of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, tell Izvestia.

Day of the Russian Air Defense Forces – 2025: the history of the holiday

The air defense forces have always stood guard over the peaceful skies. The first ground units for conducting air defense appeared in Russia during the First World War and were intended to fight enemy airplanes.

Later, anti-aircraft batteries began to be used to cover the troops. The air defense forces showed their maximum capabilities during the defense of Moscow at the beginning of the Great Patriotic War.

In recognition of the military's achievements, the Air Defense Forces Day was established in 1975. For many years, it has been celebrated on April 11. In 2006, by presidential decree, the date of the holiday was moved to the second Sunday in April.

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Until 1998, air defense units were an independent branch of the Armed Forces, then they became part of the Air Force. They are currently part of the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS).

Modern air defense forces are equipped with high-tech radio and anti-aircraft missile systems (SAM) capable of hitting any target. They are the ones who repel attacks by Ukrainian drones and Western missiles in the special military operation zone.

Traditions of the Russian Air Defense Forces Day – April 13 holiday

According to the established tradition, solemn formations are held on April 13 in the air defense units. The best soldiers and officers are presented with awards and promoted in rank. Festive concerts are organized on the occasion of the celebration, at which military ensembles perform.

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Specialized educational institutions join the holiday every year: the Marshal Vasilevsky Military Academy of Military Air Defense in Smolensk, the 60th Anniversary of October Higher Military School of Air Defense in Yaroslavl, the Center for Training Specialists of Radio Engineering Troops in Vladimir and other training centers.

Veterans are not forgotten on this day either. Congratulations are sent to them, memorable gifts are given, and they are invited to take part in thematic events. Employees of the defense industry are also congratulated on the holiday: engineers, dispatchers, developers and manufacturers of air defense systems.

However, even on the day of the celebration, the continuous control of the country's airspace does not stop in order to ensure the safety of citizens.

Earlier, Izvestia told how the Day of the Russian Rocket and Space Defense Forces is celebrated.