26th Soviet Army

The 26th Soviet Army formed in 1940, defending the Soviet-German border and participating in pivotal World War II battles. It included rifle divisions, artillery units, and mechanized corps, showcasing formidable strength. Commanded by Lieutenant General Fyodor Kostenko, the army played a crucial role in early operations, demonstrating resilience and strategic importance throughout the war.

Commanders

Lieutenant General Fyodor Kostenko, 26th June 1941 to 20th September 1941

Lieutenant General Fyodor Kostenko commanded the 26th Soviet Army during World War II, showcasing exceptional leadership and strategic expertise. He led his forces in critical battles, including the defense of the Soviet-German border and the Kiev operations. His contributions significantly impacted Soviet military efforts, earning him recognition as a skilled and dedicated commander.

Major General Alexey Kurkin, 9th October 1941 to 22nd November 1941

Major General Alexey Kurkin commanded the 26th Soviet Army during World War II, showcasing exceptional leadership and tactical expertise. He led his forces in critical battles, including the defense of the Soviet-German border and the Kiev operations. His contributions significantly impacted Soviet military efforts, earning him recognition as a skilled and dedicated commander.

Lieutenant General Grigory Grigorievich Sokolov, 10th Nov 1941 to 25th Dec 1941

Lieutenant General Grigory Grigorievich Sokolov, 10th November 1941 to 25th December 1941

Lieutenant General Grigory Grigorievich Sokolov commanded the 26th Soviet Army, leading his forces in critical World War II operations. He demonstrated exceptional leadership and tactical expertise, contributing significantly to Soviet military efforts. His strategic decisions and dedication earned him recognition as a skilled commander, leaving a lasting impact on the Soviet Army’s history.

Major General Nikolai Nikishin, 28th March 1942 to 17th May 1943

Major General Nikolai Nikishin commanded the 26th Soviet Army during World War II, showcasing exceptional leadership and tactical expertise. He led his forces in critical operations, contributing significantly to Soviet military efforts. His strategic decisions and dedication earned him recognition as a skilled commander, leaving a lasting impact on Soviet military history.

Major General Lev Skvirsky, 17th May 1943 to 16th January 1945

Major General Lev Skvirsky commanded the 26th Soviet Army during World War II, showcasing exceptional leadership and tactical expertise. He led his forces in critical operations, including the Vyborg-Petrozavodsk Offensive, advancing against Finnish forces. His strategic decisions and dedication significantly impacted Soviet military efforts, earning him recognition as a skilled and determined

Lieutenant General Nikolai Gagen, 16th January 1945 to May 1945

Lieutenant General Nikolai Gagen commanded the 26th Soviet Army during World War II, showcasing exceptional leadership and tactical expertise. He led his forces in critical operations, including the defense against the German Lake Balaton offensive and the Vienna Offensive. His strategic decisions significantly contributed to Soviet victories, earning him recognition as a skilled commander.

Active

1941 to 1945

Engagements

Operation Barbarossa
Battle of Uman
Vyborg-Petrozavodsk Offensive
Petsamo-Kirkenes Offensive
Budapest Offensive
Operation Spring Awakening
Vienna Offensive

Army Composition

First Formation

The 26th Soviet Army formed in 1940, defending the Soviet-German border and preparing for critical World War II battles.

8th Rifle Corps
99th Rifle Division
173rd Rifle Division
72nd Mountain Rifle Division
8th Mechanized Corps
12th Tank Division
34th Tank Division
7th Mechanized Division
2nd Anti-Tank Brigade
233rd Corps Artillery Regiment

Second Formation

The 26th Soviet Army reformed in October 1941, defending the Dnieper River and engaging in critical military operations.

1st Guards Special Rifle Corps

Third Formation

The 26th Soviet Army reformed in 1943, joining the Soviet offensive and contributing significantly to key World War II battles.

Fourth Formation

The 26th Soviet Army reformed in 1944, advancing through Eastern Europe and contributing significantly to Soviet military victories.

27th Rifle Division
54th Rifle Division
186th Rifle Division
263rd Rifle Division
61st Infantry Brigade
67th Infantry Brigade
80th Infantry Brigade
85th Naval Infantry Brigade

History

The 26th Soviet Army defended the Soviet-German border in 1941, engaging in fierce battles during Operation Barbarossa’s initial stages. It fought valiantly against the German Seventeenth Army, holding positions along the San River and Carpathian Mountains. Despite their efforts, the army faced significant losses, retreating under heavy pressure and regrouping for future operations.

Reformed in October 1941, the 26th Soviet Army defended the Dnieper River and participated in critical battles near Kiev. It launched counterattacks to relieve encircled Soviet forces but faced challenges in breaking through German lines. The army’s resilience and determination contributed to the broader Soviet war effort, showcasing their strategic importance.

In later years, the 26th played a vital role in offensives across Eastern Europe, advancing against German forces. It participated in operations like the Budapest Offensive and Vienna Offensive, contributing significantly to Soviet victories. Their efforts helped secure key territories and hastened the war’s conclusion.