Air Force ranks and insignia of the Russian Federation



The following table presents images of the rank insignia used by the Russian Federation Air Force (VVS). The Russia inherited the ranks of the Soviet Union, although the insignia and uniform was altered a little, especially the re-introduction of the old Czarist crown and double eagle. The Russian Air Force is an independent organization. The Russian Air Force follows the same rank structure as the Russian Ground Forces, with the addition of the title "of aviation" to each officers rank, now abandoned.

The English title for each rank is given first, followed by the Russian title, an English transliteration, then the United States Air Force equivalent. Images of each insignia are provided in the table, along with images of the USAF equivalent.

Russian armed forces have two styles of ranks - troop ranks (army style ranks) and deck ranks (navy style ranks). The army uses troop ranks, and so does the Air Force. The following table of Ranks is based on those of the Russian Federation. The Russian Federation eliminated the descriptor "of Aviation" following ranks, however, that descriptor is still in use in this service branch. The rank of a serviceman of a "Guards" unit or formation may be followed by the word “Guards.”  The rank of a citizen of the legal, medical or veterinary professions shall be followed by the words “of Justice,” “of the Medical service,” or “of the Veterinary service,”  to their respective ranks. The rank of a citizen having reserve or retired status shall be followed by the words “Reserve” or “Retired,” respectively.

Table of Ranks
The rank insignia shown here are in the old duty uniforms, the new parade dress uniform epaulettes are air force blue for NCOs and airmen and gold and blue for the officer corps while everyday dress uniforms retain the old design save for NCOs and airmen epaulette insignia.