On August 2, 2015 Russia celebrates the 85th anniversary of the official founding of the Soviet/Russian Airborne Forces. Sometimes affectionally referred to as "Uncle Vasya's Troops" (after their legendary commander General Vasily Margelov), the Russian Airborne Troops continue to exemplify the highest standards of martial prowess, valor and discipline.
Soviet Airborne Forces commencing a paradrop.
Soviet paratroopers prepare for a drop behind enemy lines to provide support for the Slovak National Uprising in 1944.
Soviet paratroopers in training.
Soviet paratroopers practicing the essentials of sky-diving.
Soviet paratroopers waiting for their mission to begin.
General Vasily Margelov, commander of the Soviet Airborne Forces, shaking hands with Soviet paratroopers.
An armored vehicle being loaded aboard a transport aircraft of the Soviet Airborne Forces.
A historical reenactment of a Soviet airborne assault.
Paratroopers take part in a regular tactical exercise conducted on Lithuanian territory.
Paratroopers of Russia's Pskov Airborne Division.
Paratroopers exhibit their skills during celebrations of the 65th anniversary of the Russian Airborne Troops at Tushino Airfield in Moscow.
The 31st Guards Airborne Brigade conducts a parachute landing drill during a military exercise in the Ryazan Region, Central Russia.
Armored vehicles dropped from the sky during the Interaction 2014 military exercise held near the city of Karaganda, Kazakhstan.
A Russian paratrooper puts on skis after landing in the village of Noviki during the Air Landing troops exercise in Ryazan Region.
A 2S25 Sprut-SD self-propelled tank destroyer designed for the airborne and amphibious landing forces, on display at the ARMY 2015 International Military-Technical Forum held on the outskirts of Moscow.
Russian paratroopers participate in a war game held at the Edelweiss military training ground.
A detachment of the Russian Airborne Forces marching along Red Square during a Victory Day military parade.
