Russia Awards Elite ‘Guards’ Honor to 39th Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Defence Regiment
IBG NEWS | International Desk | July 1, 2026
Russian President Vladimir Putin has conferred the prestigious honorary “Guards” designation upon the country’s 39th Regiment of Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) Defence, recognizing its role in military operations and what the Kremlin described as exceptional bravery, courage and dedication in defending national interests.
The announcement came through an Executive Order signed by the President on June 30, officially renaming the unit as the 39th Guards Regiment of Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Defence.
According to the presidential decree, the honour was awarded in recognition of the regiment’s “mass heroism and bravery, fortitude and courage” demonstrated by its personnel during combat operations conducted to defend the Russian Federation and its state interests in armed conflicts.
The “Guards” title is among the highest honorary military distinctions in Russia and is traditionally bestowed upon military formations that display exceptional performance, discipline and valour during combat. Units receiving the designation are regarded as elite formations within the Russian Armed Forces.
The 39th Guards Regiment specializes in Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) Defence, a branch responsible for protecting military personnel from chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threats. Its responsibilities also include radiation monitoring, decontamination operations, reconnaissance of hazardous environments and emergency response during military and civil defence operations.
The award further elevates the regiment’s status within Russia’s military establishment and reflects the country’s continued emphasis on strengthening specialised defence capabilities amid ongoing security challenges.
The Executive Order took effect immediately following its publication by the Kremlin.
Source: Kremlin Executive Order (June 30, 2026).
