The 158th Separate Mechanized Brigade (Ukrainian: 158 окрема піхотна бригада, romanized: 158 okrema pіhotna bryhada), is a formation of the Ukrainian Ground Forces formed in 2024.[1] It was part of the creation and expansion of nine other brigades in the Ukrainian Ground Forces, announced by its commander Oleksandr Pavliuk, in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.[1]
| 158th Separate Mechanized Brigade | |
|---|---|
| 158 окрема піхотна бригада 158 okrema pіhotna bryhada | |
 Shoulder sleeve insignia | |
| Active | 2024 - present |
| Country |  Ukraine |
| Branch |  Ukrainian Ground Forces |
| Type | Infantry |
| Size | Brigade |
| Engagements | |
| Commanders | |
| Current commander | Unknown |
| Insignia | |
| Subdued insignia |  |
History
editFormation
editThe brigade was formed after a Ukrainian mobilization law came into force, seeing the draft age being lowered from 27 to 25 and placing penalties for those avoiding conscription.[2][1] This law also saw prisoners being able to join the armed forces.[2]
It was reported by Forbes that these 10 new brigades would consist of 2,000 people and that some of these new brigades would be infantry - not mechanized brigades.[1] It was stated by Pavluvik, the commander of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, that these new brigades could be stationed around Kyiv, Kyiv Oblast, for a potential Russian offensive.
On 16 July 2024, the Chernihiv Regional State Administration publicized a video calling for individuals to join the brigade. It was noted that drivers, doctors, cooks, and other roles were needed.[3]
Russo-Ukrainian War
editRussian invasion of Ukraine
editThe 158th Infantry Brigade is expected to play a significant role since its formation, most probably expected to repel a potential Russian offensive in 2024, or in the near future.
Structure
editAs of August 2024, the brigade's structure is as follows:
- 158th Separate Mechanized Brigade
- Brigade's Headquarters
- 1st Infantry Battalion
- 2nd Infantry Battalion
- 3rd Infantry Battalion
- Reconnaissance Company
- Anti-Tank Company
- Anti-Aircraft Defense Company
- Engineer Company
- Maintenance Company
- Medical Company
References
edit- ^ a b c d "Ukraine to create 10 new brigades to prepare for new Russian offensive". Ukrainska Pravda. 2024-05-10. Retrieved 2024-05-25.
- ^ a b Kullab, Samya; Kozlowska, Joanna (2024-05-18). "Ukraine's divisive mobilization law comes into force as a new Russian push strains front-line troops". AP News. Retrieved 2024-05-25.
- ^ "🇺🇦 158 окрема піхотна бригада запрошує приєднатися до своїх лав! Потрібні водії, медики, кухарі та інші спеціальності. Звертайтеся за номером: 096 771 76 77". By Чернігівська ОДАFacebook. Retrieved 2024-08-26.