Прибалтийский военный округ
In October 1938 Baranov graduated as a pilot, with distinction, and was encouraged by the aeroclub's authorities to pursue a career as a military airman. Baranov attended the Military School of Chugevkaya, where he graduated in October 1940 with the rank of "Mladshiy Leytenant". Initially assigned to serve in the 271st Fighter Regiment (Baltic Military District), he was later sent to the 183rd Fighter Regiment in Southern Ukraine.