6th Soviet Army

The Soviet High Command formed the 6th Soviet Army in August 1939, organizing it from the Volochiskaya Army Group. Commanders assigned it to the Kiev Special Military District, preparing it for operations in the Lviv direction. The 6th Army participated in the Soviet invasion of Poland, showcasing its operational capabilities effectively.

Commanders

Lieutenant-General Filipp Golikov, 28th September 1939 to 26th July 1940

Lieutenant-General Filipp Golikov commanded the 6th Soviet Army during the Soviet invasion of Poland in September 1939. He led operations to capture Lviv, showcasing strategic leadership and effective coordination. Golikov later held significant roles, including heading the Main Intelligence Directorate, contributing to Soviet military efforts during critical stages of World War II.

Lieutenant-General Ivan Muzychenko, 26th July 1940 to 10th August 1941

Lieutenant-General Ivan Muzychenko commanded the 6th Soviet Army during the early stages of Operation Barbarossa in 1941. He led defensive operations, regrouped units, and coordinated reinforcements to counter German advances. Muzychenko’s leadership faced immense challenges, including the encirclement at Uman, highlighting his efforts during critical moments of World War II.

Lieutenant-General Rodion Malinovsky, 25th August 1941 to 24th December 1941

Lieutenant-General Rodion Malinovsky commanded the 6th Soviet Army during critical stages of World War II, showcasing exceptional leadership. He directed operations effectively, regrouped units, and coordinated reinforcements to counter German advances. Malinovsky’s strategic brilliance contributed significantly to Soviet victories, cementing his reputation as one of the most skilled Soviet military commanders.

Lieutenant-General Auxentios Gorodnyansky, 25th Jan 1942 to 27th May 1942

Lieutenant-General Auxentios Gorodnyansky, 25th January 1942 to 27th May 1942

Lieutenant-General Auxentios Gorodnyansky commanded the 6th Soviet Army during critical stages of World War II in 1942. He led defensive operations, regrouped units, and coordinated reinforcements to counter German advances. Gorodnyansky’s leadership faced immense challenges, including the encirclement at Kharkov, highlighting his efforts during pivotal moments of the Eastern Front conflict.

Lieutenant-General Fyodor Kharitonov, 8th July 1942 to 20th May 1943

Lieutenant-General Fyodor Kharitonov commanded the 6th Soviet Army during critical operations on the Eastern Front in World War II. He led defensive and offensive actions, regrouped units, and coordinated reinforcements to counter German advances. Kharitonov’s leadership significantly contributed to Soviet victories, showcasing his strategic brilliance and dedication during pivotal battles.

Lieutenant-General Ivan Shlemin, 21st May 1943 to 28th May 1944

Lieutenant-General Ivan Shlemin commanded the 6th Soviet Army during critical operations on the Eastern Front in World War II. He led defensive and offensive actions, regrouped units, and coordinated reinforcements to counter German advances. Shlemin’s leadership significantly contributed to Soviet victories, showcasing his strategic brilliance and dedication during pivotal battles.

Colonel General Vyacheslav Tsvetayev, 12th September 1944 to 28th September 1944

Colonel General Vyacheslav Tsvetayev commanded the 6th Soviet Army during World War II, showcasing exceptional leadership and strategic brilliance. He led his forces in pivotal battles, including the Vistula–Oder Offensive and the Battle of Berlin. His contributions earned him the title of Hero of the Soviet Union, cementing his legacy in military history.

Major General Fyodor Kulishev, 29th September 1944 to 6th December 1944

Major General Fyodor Kulishev commanded the 6th Soviet Army during a critical period of World War II, leading them in the Baltic Offensive in 1944. He faced fierce German resistance as the Red Army pushed westward, securing key victories despite the challenges. Kulishev’s leadership proved vital in liberating Riga, a strategic port city, contributing to the eventual Soviet victory in the region.

Lieutenant-General Vladimir Gluzdovsky 7 December 1944 to 9 May 1945

Lieutenant-General Vladimir Gluzdovsky commanded the 6th Soviet Army during World War II, demonstrating exceptional leadership and strategic expertise. He played a crucial role in the Siege of Breslau, leading his forces with determination and tactical skill. His contributions significantly impacted the Soviet military efforts, leaving a lasting legacy in the annals of history.

Active

1939 to 1945

Engagements

Operation Barbarossa
Second Battle of Kharkov

Army Composition

First Formation

The Soviet High Command formed the 6th Army in August 1939, organizing it from the Volochiskaya Army Group.

6th Rifle Corps
37th Rifle Corps
4th Mechanized Corps
15th Mechanized Corp
5th Cavalry Corps
4th Fortified Region
6th Fortified Region

Second Formation

The Soviet High Command reformed the 6th Army in 1941, organizing it from the 48th Rifle Corps units.

169th Rifle Division
226th Rifle Division
230th Rifle Division
255th Rifle Division
273rd Rifle Division
275th Rifle Division
26th Cavalry Division
28th Cavalry Divisions
47th Rifle Regiment
269th Corps Artillery Regiment
274th Corps Artillery Regiment
394th Corps Artillery Regiment
8th Tank Division

Third Formation

The Soviet High Command formed the 6th Army’s third formation in July 1942, organizing it from the 6th Reserve Army.

45th Rifle Division
99th Rifle Division
141st Rifle Division
160th Rifle Division
174th Rifle Division
212th Rifle Division
219th Rifle Division
309th Rifle Division
141st Rifle Brigade

Fourth Formation

The 6th Army was reformed in December 1944 with troops from 3rd Guards and 13th Armies.

22nd Rifle Corps
218th Rifle Division
273rd Rifle Division
74th Rifle Corps
181st Rifle Division
309th Rifle Division
359th Rifle Division
77th Fortified Region

History

The 6th Soviet Army began its operational history in 1939, participating in the Soviet invasion of Poland during World War II. Commanders organized the army from the Volochiskaya Army Group, assigning it to the Kiev Special Military District. The 6th Army advanced into the Lviv direction, engaging in operations that showcased its strategic capabilities and effectiveness.

In 1941, the 6th Army defended the west bank of the Dnieper River, countering German advances during Operation Barbarossa. Commanders directed defensive actions, regrouped units, and coordinated reinforcements to stabilize the front. Despite their efforts, the army suffered heavy losses during the Battle of Uman, leading to its disbandment and subsequent reformation.

The 6th Army played a significant role in later operations, including the Second Battle of Kharkov and Operation Little Saturn. Commanders led successful offensives, breaking through enemy lines and contributing to Soviet victories. The army’s resilience highlighted its importance in critical battles.