Soviet Air Force Badges
(1969-1979)

 

 
This section covers some of the many badges that were awarded to members of the Soviet Air Force during this period.  In each case we will attempt to give a full history of each badge when possible, and a general description at the very least. The selection of badges we have to view is listed below.

  
  

Guards Badge

This is a more recent version of the Soviet Guards badge. It was worn by all members of a unit within a Guards division. Guards badges (and divisions) were created in 1942 during the Great Patriotic War. They were divisions who distinguished themselves in battle. Since then other units (usually airborne) have been awarded Guards status. This version of the badge is made of brass and enamel, later versions were made of aluminum and paint.

    

Excellence in Service Badges

This badge was established in 1957 and awarded to soldiers and airmen for their excellent service. These badges are made of aluminum and enamel, while early versions such as this one were made of brass and enamel. The badge says - Excellence in VVS (Air Force)

   

Officer Qualification Badges

These badges were awarded to officers based on their proficiency, skill, and conduct. From what I have been told, the first two badges (class 3 and 2) were relatively easy to obtain, but the first class and master badges were much harder to earn as the requirements became more difficult.

These badges came from a variety of factories in the Soviet Union and because of this standardization was a problem. These badges are made of brass and enamel. The tank in the center is painted (poorly on some examples).

Master Qualification Badge

1st Class Qualification Badge

2nd Class Qualification Badge

3rd Class Qualification Badge

    

Enlisted Qualification Badges - 1968 Type

These badges were awarded to enlisted men based on their skill and conduct. The first two badges were relatively easy to obtain, but the first class and master badges were much harder to earn as the requirements became more difficult.

These badges came from a variety of factories in the Soviet Union and because of this standardization was a problem. Even though all of the badges are identical in size, composition, and weight, they come in both screw back and pin back variations. They are all made of brass and enamel.

Master Qualification Badge

1st Class Qualification Badge

2nd Class Qualification Badge

3rd Class Qualification Badge

    

Air Force Long Service Badge

Badges for service beyond the mandatory  two year conscription period were authorized in 1957.  Early versions were made of brass and enamel, but ones made in the 1980's were made of painted aluminum.  A marker denoting how many years of faithful extended service could be attached to the hangers below the badge itself. This badge is a pin back type.

   

Excellent Sportsman Badge

These badges were established in 1964 and awarded to soldiers for excellence in physical conditioning and sports activities.  It came in three classes and was worn by both soldiers, airmen, and sailors.  They are screwback badges made of aluminum, white paint, and colored enamel.

First Class Badge Second Class Badge Third Class Badge

 

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Awards of the Soviet Superpower