Polotsk Airfield

The airfield's closure was a direct result of military restructuring following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The primary resident unit, the 378th Assault Aviation Regiment, was disbanded in 1993. As a newly independent nation, Belarus undertook a significant downsizing of the massive Soviet military inheritance on its territory, closing bases that were no longer considered strategically necessary or economically viable to maintain. The closure was therefore due to military reorganization and economic factors, not an accident or other specific event.

The airfield is defunct and abandoned for aviation purposes. Satellite imagery confirms that the main runway, taxiways, and numerous hardened aircraft shelters (revetments) are still physically present but are in a severe state of disrepair. The concrete surfaces are cracked, weathered, and overgrown with vegetation. The site is not maintained and is inaccessible for any official use. It is occasionally used by local residents for informal activities such as driver training, street racing, and as a general open space. The associated military garrison and technical buildings are largely derelict and have fallen into ruin.

Polotsk Airfield was a significant Soviet Air Force (VVS) forward operating base during the Cold War. Its primary historical importance is its role as the home base for the 378th Assault Aviation Regiment (378-й штурмовой авиационный полк, 378th ShAP). This regiment was part of the 26th Air Army and later the 1st Air Army of the Soviet Air Force. The airfield exclusively handled military operations, specifically supporting ground-attack missions. The 378th ShAP was equipped with Sukhoi Su-25 'Frogfoot' aircraft, a rugged and heavily armed jet designed for close air support of ground forces. The base, with its hardened aircraft shelters and strategic location in the Western USSR, was a key asset for potential Warsaw Pact operations against NATO.

There are no known official plans or credible prospects for reopening Polotsk Airfield. The cost to restore the runway and infrastructure to modern operational standards for either military or civilian use would be substantial. There is no strategic or commercial demand for an airport in this specific location, especially with other active airfields in the wider region (e.g., Vitebsk Vostochny Airport). The site is expected to continue its slow decay or be eventually repurposed for industrial or agricultural use.