The largest military parade ever held on Red Square marked the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
Key Facts
- Date
- June 24, 1945
- Soldiers participating
- 40,000 Red Army soldiers
- Military vehicles
- 1,850 vehicles
- Duration
- Just over two hours
- Venue
- Red Square, Moscow
- Days after German surrender
- 46 days
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender to Soviet commanders on May 9, 1945, brought World War II to an end on the Eastern Front. The Soviet Union, having suffered enormous losses in the conflict, sought to formally commemorate its military victory and honor the forces that had fought to defeat Germany.
On June 24, 1945, the Soviet Armed Forces staged a victory parade on Red Square in Moscow, involving 40,000 soldiers, 1,850 military vehicles, and a Color Guard Company representing the First Polish Army. The parade, held in rainy conditions, lasted just over two hours and was the longest and largest military parade ever conducted on Red Square.
The parade became a powerful symbol of Soviet military might and sacrifice, cementing the USSR's status as a dominant world power in the postwar order. It established a tradition of Victory Day commemorations in Russia that continues to the present day, with major parades held on May 9 each year.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
2 belligerents
Side B
1 belligerent