Chaiko Appointed New Commander of the Russian Aerospace Forces

(Alex Horobets – Jamestown Foundation) Colonel General Alexander Chaiko has been appointed the new commander of the Russian Aerospace Forces, replacing Viktor Afzalov. Chaiko is a ground forces commander with no experience in aviation or air defense, pointing to the decision’s political nature. Clan interests and personal loyalty, rather than considerations of competency, explain this appointment. Chaiko is a protégé of Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov, and Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu reportedly lobbied his candidacy to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The appointment of a “ground forces” general amid a crisis in air defense due to massive Ukrainian drone attacks demonstrates how the Kremlin continues to solve problems by reshuffling loyal personnel rather than changing approaches. – Chaiko Appointed New Commander of the Russian Aerospace Forces – Jamestown