The division traced its history back to the formation of the 82nd Territorial Rifle Division in 1932 from personnel of the 57th Rifle Division's 169th Rifle Regiment, which had relocated to the Transbaikal region. Formed in the Perm area, the 82nd relocated to the Ural Military District in May 1935. In May 1939, the 82nd Rifle was mobilized and sent to the Transbaikal. From July, it fought in the Battles of Khalkhin Gol against Japanese troops. After the end of the fighting, the 82nd was stationed at Bayantümen. For their actions, the 601st Rifle and 82nd Artillery Regiments of the division were awarded the Order of the Red Banner on 17 November.