Two mechanized infantry divisions formed in Western Military District - Shoigu
MOSCOW. Nov 29 (Interfax) - The formation of two mechanized infantry divisions with units based in the Belgorod, Voronezh and Smolensk regions has been completed, Russian Defense Minister Gen. of the Army Sergei Shoigu told senior defense officials on Tuesday.
"First let us see how the Russian president's decisions are being implemented to improve the combat composition of the troops on the Western strategic direction. This year, the Western Military District carried out some 100 organizational measures, including the completion of the formation of two mechanized infantry divisions whose units were deployed in the Belgorod, Voronezh and Smolensk regions," Shoigu said.
"The divisions have been fully manned with personnel, where over 70 per cent are contractors, and also modern weapons, military and special equipment," the minister said. "The required materiel reserves have been created. The new bases provide necessary living conditions for the personnel. Thirty essential facilities have been built and reconstructed: barracks, canteens, services. These are due to be fully equipped in the first half of 2017," the minister said.
As regards combat training, facilities have been created for small-arms and grenade firing drills, as well as fighting-vehicle and driving practice, he said.
