Free Russian Army (military group)

## The Free Russian Army

The Free Russian Army refers to a military force that emerged during the turbulent period of the 2nd Russian Civil War. Comprised of various factions, rebel groups, and individuals opposed to the Putin regime. the Free Russian Army aimed to overthrow the existing government and establish a new order in Russia. It operated as an organized military force with the goal of liberating the country from what its members perceived as an oppressive regime.

### Leadership

The FRA's organization is primarily centralized, with a hierarchical command structure and standardized units. The leadership consists of experienced military officers and charismatic civilian leaders. The FRA places a strong emphasis on discipline, training, and the coordination of its operations. organization of their forces was carried out with the help of the Global peace keeping corps and united states military advisors

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### Equipment used by the Free Russian Army

The Free Russian Army, a faction that emerged during the 2nd Russian Civil War, relied on a range of personal equipment to equip its soldiers for combat. While the specifics may vary, the following are examples of the gear commonly used by the Free Russian Army:

1. AK-74 Rifle: The primary firearm of the Free Russian Army infantry, the AK-74 is a reliable and widely used assault rifle known for its durability and firepower.

2. 6B23 Body Armor: The 6B23 body armor provided essential protection for soldiers against small arms fire and shrapnel. It featured pockets for ceramic or steel plates to enhance ballistic protection.

3. 6B47 Helmet: The 6B47 helmet was the standard issue helmet for the Free Russian Army. It offered head protection against fragments and impacts, featuring a visor and a mounting system for additional accessories.

4. SSh-68 Helmet: In some instances, soldiers in the Free Russian Army may have also used surplus SSh-68 helmets, a common Soviet-era helmet widely available at the time.

5. Ratnik Combat Gear: The Free Russian Army incorporated elements of the Ratnik combat gear system, which included a variety of equipment such as load-bearing vests, pouches, and backpacks to carry ammunition, supplies, and personal items.

6. 6B51 Knee and Elbow Pads: Knee and elbow pads provided additional protection and cushioning during combat operations and maneuvers.

7. GP-5 Gas Mask: Gas masks, such as the GP-5, were used to protect soldiers from chemical, biological, and nuclear hazards, ensuring their ability to operate in contaminated environments.

8. Tactical Gloves: Soldiers often wore tactical gloves to improve grip, protect their hands, and facilitate weapon handling and operation.

9. Gorka Uniform: The Gorka uniform, a popular choice among Russian military and paramilitary forces, was favored by some members of the Free Russian Army. It provided durability, camouflage, and weather resistance.

10. Mountain Boots: Soldiers wore sturdy and reliable mountain boots suitable for various terrains, offering ankle support and protection against environmental conditions.

### Mass Produced copies of the 6B23

The mass produced replica 6B23 vests were mass produced within the Free Russian Army's own manufacturing facilities. Although they were not as effective as the original counterparts, they provided a certain level of protection against shrapnel and minor ballistic threats. The main objective of these replicas was to offer basic safeguarding to the wearer in the absence of sufficient access to official military-grade equipment.

The production process of these replicas involved the utilization of materials like heavy-duty fabrics, foam padding, and occasionally, salvaged armor plates from damaged or decommissioned vests. Skilled personnel within the Free Russian Army's workshops worked tirelessly to cut, sew, and assemble the components, ensuring the replicas resembled the original 6B23 vests as closely as possible.

### Mass produced copies of the 6B26 and the 6B47 helmets

The mass production of replica 6B26 and 6B47 helmets within the Free Russian Army's workshops was a testament to their determination to equip their soldiers with essential head protection. Although these replicas did not match the exact specifications and quality of the authentic helmets, they provided a measure of safeguarding against ballistic threats, shrapnel, and other potential hazards on the battlefield.

The manufacturing process of these replicas involved using locally available materials, including fiberglass, reinforced plastics, and foam padding. Skilled craftsmen and technicians employed their expertise to meticulously shape and assemble the components, striving to replicate the appearance and functionality of the original helmets as closely as possible.

### GPC assistance in training Free Russian Army Troops

The Global Peacekeeping Corps (GPC), in addition to its peacekeeping efforts around the world, played a vital role in supporting the Free Russian Army during the 2nd Russian Civil War. The GPC's military wing, composed of highly trained personnel from various member nations, actively engaged in training and advising Free Russian Army soldiers to enhance their combat capabilities and ensure their readiness on the battlefield.

Recognizing the importance of equipping the Free Russian Army with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively confront the Russian federal forces, the GPC deployed military advisors and trainers to assist in their training programs. These experienced personnel brought a wealth of expertise in a wide range of military disciplines, including infantry tactics, urban warfare, counterinsurgency operations, and logistics.

The GPC trainers worked closely with Free Russian Army units, conducting comprehensive training exercises and providing hands-on instruction. They focused on enhancing the soldiers' proficiency in various combat skills, such as marksmanship, close-quarters combat, squad-level tactics, and battlefield medical techniques. Additionally, they emphasized the importance of discipline, leadership, and adherence to international humanitarian law.

The training provided by the GPC aimed to equip Free Russian Army soldiers with the necessary tools to effectively engage their adversaries while minimizing civilian casualties and maintaining respect for human rights. It also emphasized the importance of teamwork, communication, and adaptability in dynamic and challenging environments.

Furthermore, the GPC's military wing facilitated knowledge transfer by conducting specialized courses and workshops on subjects such as mine awareness, explosive ordnance disposal, and intelligence gathering. These training programs were designed to enhance the soldiers' understanding of the threats they faced and to develop their capabilities in countering them.

The collaboration between the GPC's military wing and the Free Russian Army fostered a strong partnership based on shared objectives and a commitment to promoting peace and stability. The training provided by the GPC contributed significantly to the professionalization and effectiveness of the Free Russian Army, enabling them to better confront the Russian federal forces and protect the rights and freedoms of the civilian population.

### Western Aid

During the course of the 2nd Russian Civil War, the Free Russian Army received significant support from various Western countries, including the donation of much-needed military equipment. These contributions played a crucial role in bolstering the capabilities of the Free Russian Army and aiding their efforts in the conflict.

Donated Western equipment ranged across different categories, including firearms, armored vehicles, communication systems, protective gear, and logistical support. The provision of such equipment was a testament to the international community's recognition of the Free Russian Army's cause and their commitment to assisting them in their struggle against the oppressive regime.

Firearms:

Western countries generously provided a wide array of firearms to the Free Russian Army. These donations included modern assault rifles, sniper rifles, machine guns, and sidearms. The weaponry donated varied from well-known platforms such as the M4A1, AK-74M, SCAR-L, G36, and various models of pistols, ensuring that the Free Russian Army had access to a diverse arsenal to meet different operational requirements.

Armored Vehicles:

The donation of armored vehicles played a significant role in enhancing the Free Russian Army's mobility and firepower. Western allies contributed a range of vehicles, including armored personnel carriers (APCs), infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), and even some main battle tanks (MBTs). M1 Abrams tanks, leopard 2 tanks and challenger 2 tanks, provided the Free Russian Army with increased protection and offensive capabilities on the battlefield.

Communication Systems:

Effective communication is crucial for coordination and situational awareness in any military operation. Western nations recognized this and donated advanced communication systems to the Free Russian Army. This included secure radios, satellite communication devices, and encrypted communication software, enabling effective command and control among their ranks.

Protective Gear:

To ensure the safety of their soldiers, Western countries also donated various types of protective gear to the Free Russian Army. This included body armor, helmets, ballistic eyewear, and protective gloves. These contributions helped enhance the personal protection of Free Russian Army soldiers, mitigating the risks associated with combat operations.

Logistical Support:

In addition to weaponry and equipment, Western allies provided logistical support to the Free Russian Army. This included essential supplies such as ammunition, medical kits, food rations, fuel, and spare parts. Such assistance was crucial in sustaining the operations of the Free Russian Army and ensuring their effectiveness in the field.

### Organization

Divisions:

The Free Russian Army consisted of several divisions, each comprising a significant number of personnel and assets. These divisions were responsible for conducting major operations and coordinating the efforts of various subordinate units within their area of responsibility. The exact number of divisions and their names may have varied, but they typically represented a sizable force.

Brigades:

Within each division, multiple brigades were formed to focus on specific operational requirements. These brigades were typically specialized units with specific combat roles. Examples of brigades within the Free Russian Army may include armored brigades, mechanized infantry brigades, airborne brigades, and special forces brigades. Each brigade was led by a brigade commander and consisted of several battalions or regiments.

Battalions:

Battalions formed the backbone of the Free Russian Army's organizational structure. They were the primary maneuver units, typically consisting of several companies and support elements. Battalions were led by battalion commanders and were responsible for executing missions assigned to them by higher headquarters. The Free Russian Army comprised various types of battalions, including infantry battalions, armored battalions, artillery battalions, and engineering battalions.

Companies:

Companies were the building blocks of the Free Russian Army's combat formations. They were led by company commanders and consisted of several platoons. Companies were specialized units, such as infantry companies, tank companies, or reconnaissance companies, depending on their assigned role within the overall structure of the Free Russian Army.

Platoons:

Platoons were the smallest independent units within the Free Russian Army. Led by platoon leaders, they consisted of several squads or teams. Platoons were typically responsible for specific tasks, such as conducting infantry assaults, operating armored vehicles, or providing fire support.

Support Units:

In addition to combat units, the Free Russian Army included various support units. These units played a vital role in providing logistical, medical, engineering, and communication support to the front-line forces. Examples of support units within the Free Russian Army may include logistics battalions, medical units, engineer battalions, and signal companies.

### foreign volunteers

The Free Russian Army (FRA) during the 2nd Russian Civil War saw the participation of foreign volunteers who joined the ranks to support the cause of the FRA. These foreign volunteers brought diverse skills, experiences, and backgrounds, contributing to the overall strength and capabilities of the FRA. They formed distinct divisions and units within the FRA, which were specifically designated for foreign volunteers. Here are some notable foreign volunteer divisions and units that operated within the FRA:

1. International Volunteer Division:

The International Volunteer Division was a notable unit composed of foreign volunteers from various countries. It attracted volunteers from different backgrounds, including military veterans, adventurers, and ideologically motivated individuals who sought to support the cause of the FRA. The division played a crucial role in providing combat support and expertise to the FRA's operations.

2. Brigade of Allied Nations:

The Brigade of Allied Nations was a multinational unit within the FRA, comprised of volunteers from allied countries. It included soldiers from nations that shared common objectives with the FRA and provided specialized skills and equipment to enhance the FRA's capabilities on the battlefield.

3. Foreign Special Forces Units:

The FRA also had dedicated foreign special forces units that operated alongside their Russian counterparts. These units consisted of highly trained and skilled soldiers with expertise in various fields, including counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and unconventional warfare. The foreign special forces units played a significant role in conducting specialized operations and providing valuable support to the FRA's overall mission.

4. International Reconnaissance Battalion:

The International Reconnaissance Battalion was a specialized unit within the FRA that consisted of foreign volunteers with expertise in reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering. This unit played a vital role in gathering critical information, conducting surveillance, and providing valuable intelligence to support FRA operations.

### Uniforms

The Free Russian Army (FRA) during the 2nd Russian Civil War utilized the Digital Flora EMR (Ehkranka Modernizirovannaya Razvedyvatelnaya) camouflage pattern as their standard uniform. This camo pattern was chosen for its effectiveness in a variety of terrains and its ability to blend in with the surroundings, providing some level of concealment for the FRA troops.

However, due to the similarities in gear worn by both the FRA and the Russian federal forces, it became necessary for the FRA to establish methods to distinguish their troops from the enemy. To avoid confusion and friendly fire incidents, the FRA implemented several visual indicators and identification systems. Here are some of the methods employed:

1. Shoulder Patches and Insignia:

The FRA soldiers wore distinctive shoulder patches and insignia on their uniforms to identify their affiliation. These patches often featured the FRA emblem or symbols representing their specific unit or division. This allowed for quick visual identification, both among their own forces and to distinguish themselves from the Russian federal forces.

2. Armbands:

To further differentiate themselves, FRA soldiers often wore armbands in specific colors or patterns. These armbands were visible on the upper arm and served as a clear indicator of their allegiance. Different units within the FRA may have had their own unique armband designs or colors, allowing for easy identification on the battlefield.

3. Helmet Covers and Accessories:

FRA troops frequently utilized helmet covers in distinct colors or patterns to distinguish themselves. These covers could feature unique markings, symbols, or patches that identified the wearer as a member of the FRA. Additionally, soldiers may have attached specific accessories or markings to their helmets, such as unit emblems or reflective tape, to aid in recognition and differentiation.

4. Unit-specific Equipment:

Each unit within the FRA may have utilized unit-specific equipment or gear modifications to further set themselves apart from the Russian federal forces. This could include customized plate carriers, backpacks, or weapon accessories featuring unit emblems, unit names, or unique markings.

It is important to note that while these visual indicators and identification systems were implemented, they did not guarantee absolute certainty in distinguishing between friendly and enemy forces in the chaotic nature of the battlefield. Therefore, strict adherence to communication protocols and procedures, combined with disciplined engagement, were crucial to minimizing friendly fire incidents and maintaining operational effectiveness.

The use of the aforementioned visual identification methods, helped the FRA soldiers identify and recognize their comrades while differentiating themselves from the Russian federal forces during the 2nd Russian Civil War. These measures played a vital role in maintaining cohesion and reducing the risk of accidental engagements between friendly forces.