In January 1942, Nikolayev completed radiotelegraphic courses in Tashkent, and became the chief of a reserve cavalry regiment radio station in Chardzhou. In July, Nikolayev was transferred to become the radio station commander of the 1035th Artillery Regiment of the 153rd Rifle Division. For its actions during Operation Little Saturn, the division became known as the 57th Guards Rifle Division and the regiment became the 128th Guards Artillery Regiment in December. In 1943, he joined the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. During January and February 1943, he fought in Operation Gallop. On 30 April, he received the Medal "For Courage". Nikolayev fought in the Izyum-Barvenkovo Offensive in late July. He then fought in the Battle of the Dnieper during September and October. On 6 November, he was awarded his first Order of the Red Star. In January 1944, Nikolayev participated in the Nikopol–Krivoi Rog Offensive. He fought in the Bereznegovatoye–Snigirevka Offensive in March and the Odessa Offensive weeks later.