“Attention! Attention! An enemy air raid is approaching Moscow.” Those words likely echoed near 6 корпус during World War II. Today let’s uncover the story of this building and its role in defending Moscow.
The 6 корпус had a crucial purpose. It was part of Moscow’s air defense during the Great Patriotic War. This building was more than just bricks and mortar. It was a vital command center.
The 6 корпус served as the 6th Fighter Aviation Corps of the Air Defense. It was formed on June 19 1941. This corps was created from the 24th and 78th Fighter Aviation Divisions. It included 11 fighter aviation regiments. These regiments were equipped with Yak-1 MiG-3 and LaGG-3 aircraft. There were also older I-16 and I-153 planes.
The corps headquarters were located on Kirov Street in Moscow. That address is now known as Myasnitskaya Street. Colonel Ivan Ivanovich Komarov was appointed chief of staff. In June 1941 the corps had 175 modern aircraft. These included Yak-1 MiG-3 and LaGG-3 models. It also possessed 212 older I-16 and I-153 planes.
The 6 корпус played a key role in the Battle of Moscow. On July 22 1941 its regiments repelled a massive air raid. Over 200 enemy bombers targeted Moscow. Only a few planes managed to break through.
The 6 корпус underwent reorganization on June 15 1943. It became the 1st Air Fighter Army of the Air Defense. This transformation reflected its growing importance.
Many brave pilots served in the units of 6 корпус. They defended Moscow’s skies with courage. Several were awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. Their heroic deeds are forever linked to this place.
The 6 корпус was involved in several key operations. These include the Battle of Moscow and the Tula offensive operation. It also participated in the Kaluga and Klin-Solnechnogorsk offensive operations.
Today as we stand here remember the brave men and women. They stood ready to defend Moscow from the skies above. The 6 корпус remains a testament to their courage. It reminds us of Moscow’s resilience during a time of war. Its legacy lives on in the stories of those who served.