General Valery Gerasimov, also known as Valery Vasilyevich Gerasimov, is a highly influential figure in the Russian military. Born on September 8, 1955, he currently serves as the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Russia and the First Deputy Defence Minister. Gerasimov's extensive military background and his strategic thinking have made him a crucial player in shaping Russia's military doctrine.
Gerasimov began his military career in the Soviet Army, where he specialized in missile troops and artillery. Over the years, he held various command positions and gained valuable experience in military operations. His exceptional leadership skills and expertise caught the attention of higher authorities, leading to his appointment as the Chief of the General Staff in 2012.
As the Chief of the General Staff, Gerasimov plays a significant role in the planning and execution of military operations. He is responsible for the overall strategic direction of the Russian Armed Forces, overseeing their readiness, training, and modernization. Gerasimov's leadership style is characterized by his emphasis on the integration of various military branches and the development of innovative military technologies.
One of the notable contributions of General Gerasimov is the development of the concept of "hybrid warfare." This term refers to the blending of conventional and unconventional military tactics, including the use of information warfare, cyber attacks, and irregular forces. Gerasimov's concept gained international attention during the 2014 Russian annexation of Crimea and the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine.
Under Gerasimov's guidance, the Russian military underwent significant reforms to adapt to modern warfare challenges. This included the establishment of new military units, the enhancement of command and control systems, and the integration of advanced technologies. Gerasimov actively promotes the use of intelligence, reconnaissance, and precision strikes to gain a tactical advantage on the battlefield.
General Valery Gerasimov has received numerous accolades and awards for his exceptional service and contributions to the Russian military. He holds the title of Hero of the Russian Federation, the highest honorary title in Russia. In addition to his military career, Gerasimov is also a published author, with several articles and speeches on military strategy and modern warfare.
Throughout his tenure as Chief of the General Staff, Gerasimov has been instrumental in shaping Russia's military doctrine and ensuring its readiness to defend national interests. His strategic thinking and innovative approaches have significantly influenced not only the Russian Armed Forces but also the global understanding of modern warfare. General Valery Gerasimov continues to play a vital role in Russia's military affairs, ensuring its preparedness for future challenges.