🇷🇺 Rzhev Air Base

Rzhev Air Base (RU-9937) is a midsized air base of the Russian Air Force located approximately 5 km east of Rzhev in Tver Oblast, Russia. The facility has a single concrete runway, designated 06/24, with a length of 2,500 meters (8,202 ft). It operates under the Moscow Flight Information Region (FIR) and is identified by the reference code RU-9937 and a local airport ID (FAA LID) of XUER, lacking an ICAO code.

Notable Features and History: Built in 1950, Rzhev Air Base played a significant role during the Cold War. It served as a depot airfield for Tupolev Tu-128 aircraft and hosted the 23rd Fighter Aviation Regiment (23 IAP PVO) from 1950 to 1980, which initially operated Sukhoi Su-9 interceptors. The base was also utilized by the 445th Fighter Aviation Regiment between 1951 and 1961, operating Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-17s. In 1981, U.S. analysts observed 102 Su-9 aircraft in storage at the airfield. Since 1966, the base has been home to the 514th Aviation Repair Plant. The surrounding city of Rzhev is historically significant due to the series of brutal World War II engagements known as the "Battles of Rzhev" or the "Rzhev Meat Grinder."

Current Status: Rzhev Air Base remains an active facility of the Russian Air Force. As of Google Maps imagery from August 2025, the main runway appeared unusable due to ongoing construction work. In January 2014, the base was associated with the 6th Air-Space Defense Brigade.