December 17 - Day of Strategic Missile Forces: History and Traditions

Every year on December 17, Russia celebrates the Day of Strategic Missile Forces, a key element of nuclear deterrence and guarantor of national security. In 2024, the holiday falls on Tuesday. On the history of the strategic forces and their role in ensuring the defense of the country read in the material "Izvestia".

Day of Strategic Missile Forces - 2024: history

The holiday was officially established in 1995 by decree of the President of Russia. The date was not chosen by chance - December 17, 1959 was signed by the Council of Ministers of the USSR on the establishment of Strategic Missile Forces (SMF).

The basis for the formation of the Strategic Missile Forces was the aggravation of relations between the Soviet Union and the United States in the 1950s, when, against the background of the Cold War and the arms race, the USSR began to actively develop missile technology.

In 1959, a separate branch of the military was formed to store, maintain, and operate strategic intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) equipped with nuclear warheads that could be used for long-range defense and strategic strikes.

The new strategic force was headed by Artillery Marshal Mitrofan Nedelin. Since then, the Strategic Missile Forces have played a crucial role in maintaining the global balance of power and ensuring the country's security.

In the 1960s, the USSR actively increased the power of its missile forces, new more advanced ICBMs capable of traveling long distances were developed, which gave the country the opportunity to compete with the United States in the nuclear race.

One of the landmark moments in the history of the Strategic Missile Forces was the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, when the world was on the brink of nuclear war. The presence of a powerful missile arsenal in the USSR and the US greatly influenced the outcome of the conflict.

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In the 1970s and 1980s, the Strategic Missile Forces continued to strengthen their positions. This period saw the active development of new mobile missile systems.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the troops continued their existence as a key element of Russia's nuclear shield. In 1992, a presidential decree was signed on the creation of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, and the Strategic Missile Forces became part of them. During this period, modernization of existing weapons systems and development of new missile systems began.

Currently, the Strategic Missile Forces include several missile armies and divisions, both with silo launchers and mobile missile systems. In addition, the strategic forces include cosmodromes, test ranges, a separate research station, a research institute, higher military educational institutions, junior specialist training centers and a technician school, arsenals, repair plants, and central bases.

Day of Strategic Missile Forces on December 17: traditions

The main events within the framework of the Day of Strategic Missile Forces are held in military units and subdivisions. The holiday begins with the building of personnel and solemn meetings, where the command and veterans make congratulatory speeches.

Traditionally, on December 17, wreaths and flowers are laid at monuments and memorials dedicated to fallen rocket soldiers. Also on this day they organize meetings of veterans with young military men, lectures and speeches in military universities and schools engaged in training of the new generation of defenders of the country.

The Day of the Strategic Missile Forces is a holiday not only for servicemen, but also for their families. In garrisons where missile troops are stationed, festive concerts, sports competitions and other cultural events are organized. Relatives of the missileers get an opportunity to learn more about the service of their loved ones and feel proud of their role in ensuring the security of the state.

Congratulations on the day of the Strategic Missile Forces

Day of Strategic Missile Forces is an occasion to express gratitude to missileers for their dedicated service and heroism. On this holiday it is customary to congratulate not only servicemen, but also veterans who devoted their lives to service in these elite troops. "Izvestia" prepared some examples of how this can be done:

"Dear servicemen! We congratulate you on the Day of Strategic Missile Forces! Your skill, discipline and dedication are the key to the security and stability of our homeland. Thank you for your service!"

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"We congratulate you on your professional holiday - the Day of Strategic Missile Forces! Your labor is not just work, but service to the interests of the Motherland. May your service be peaceful. Health, strength and a peaceful sky above your head!"

"Dear veterans! On this festive day we express our gratitude for your invaluable contribution to the defense and security of our homeland. Your example is a source of inspiration for young people. Let every day be full of joy and your health be strong. Happy holiday!"

Earlier "Izvestia" told about the history of the establishment of the Rocketeers' Memorial Day in Russia.