Knights of the Air: Russian Uniforms & Insignia

Knights of the Air: Russian Uniforms & Insignia

The Russian Imperial Air Force uniform has been designed during WWI. Before the war, pilots who previously served with infantry, cavalry or artillery retained their "old" regiment insignia, although the Air Force was a part of Engineer Corps.

Under the wing of a Bleriot airplane. Three officers have artillery insignia on their shoulder straps.

Emperor Nicholas II with the first graduates of military flying school (Gatchina, 1911). The graduates wear their Guards, Army and Navy uniform.

Air Force dress jacket, ca. 1915

Air Force Command dress uniform, ca. 1915

M1914 pilot helmet

The helmet with "Adam's head" (scull & bones) in the place of double-headed eagle

Pilot badge

Observer badge

Observer (General Staff) badge

Leather jackets and "tit caps" again. Some bombs, too.

Naval aviation insignia

Russian naval aviators

Shoulder straps and epaulette, 1915-1917

Air Force insignia as worn on a shoulder strap

Ready for the mission. Knitted masks protect from cold wind

Awards. St. George Cross, 4th grade; St. Anne's Cross with Swords, 3rd and 4th grade

St. Stanislas with Swords, 2nd and 3rd grade; St. Vladimir with Swords, 4th grade

Pilot badges