61st Separate Mechanized "Stepova" Brigade
The 61st Separate Mechanized "Stepova" (Steppe) Brigade (61 OMBr, military unit A3425) —
is a combat formation of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine,
which plays an important role in defending the state against Russian aggression.
The brigade was formed on November 10, 2015,
as the 61st Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade within the Reserve Corps of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
In 2019, it was reorganized into the 61st Separate Jäger Infantry Brigade,
specialized in conducting combat operations in the forested and swampy terrain
of northern Ukraine.
In 2022, the brigade was mechanized,
allowing it to operate more effectively under modern combat conditions.
Since August 24, 2022, the brigade has borne the honorary name "Stepova" (Steppe).
three rifle battalions (equipped with BRM-1K);
tank battalion;
artillery battalion (2S1 "Gvozdika" self-propelled howitzers, BM-21 "Grad" and RM-70 multiple rocket launchers);
anti-tank artillery battalion (MT-12);
engineer, repair, and logistics battalions;
reconnaissance, sniper, radar, and medical companies;
brigade band.
BRM-1K reconnaissance patrol vehicles;
RM-70 multiple rocket launchers;
2S1 "Gvozdika" self-propelled howitzers;
MT-12 anti-tank guns;
various small arms and personal protective equipment.
The brigade's motto is "Libertas in aeternum" ("Freedom forever").
The brigade's emblem depicts oak leaves and a crossed sword and horseshoe,
symbolizing strength, endurance, and readiness to defend.
In 2025, a new sleeve patch was introduced
depicting a silver serpent with a red tongue,
representing the speed, determination, and strength of Ukrainian soldiers.
In December 2024, the brigade was presented with an honorary red-and-black flag,
which became a symbol of its combat path, struggle, and resistance.
Driver-Mechanic
Scout
Operator, Radio Reconnaissance Platoon
Rifleman
Rigger
Gunner
Platoon/Section Commander
Driver-Mechanic, Combat Vehicles
Combat Medic
Master Technician, Combat Vehicle Repair
Driver (categories C, D)
Rifleman-Air Defense Gunner/Crew Member
Tractor Driver-Excavator Operator
Mechanic
Master Technician
Driver-Electrician
Driver
Driver-Blacksmith
Head of Workshop
Coppersmith
Senior Master Technician
Senior Technician
Electrician
Head of Power Station
Sapper
Driver-Crane Operator
Driver-Radio Operator
Excavator Operator
Tracked Minelayer Operator
Driver-Sapper
Driver-Mechanic
Radio Operator
Sound Ranging Specialist-Radio Operator
Topographer
Head of Crew
Scout-Rangefinder Operator
Driver
Tractor Driver-Excavator Operator
UAV Pilot
Rifleman
Machine Gunner
Assistant Grenadier
Rifleman-Medical Orderly
Grenadier
Clerk
Radio Operator
Sapper
Squad Leader, Rifle Platoon
Platoon Sergeant, Rifle Platoon
Mortarman
Platoon Combat Medic
Sniper
Auto Electrician
Driver-Medical Orderly
EW Equipment Operator (Duty)
ER/EW System Operator
EW Engineer
