22nd Tank Division (Soviet Union)

of the type used by the division The division began forming in February–March 1941 in the Western special military district as part of the 14th mechanized corps at the base of the 29th tank brigade in the southern military townlet on the outskirts of Brest. The division was equipped with 235 tanks, most of which were the obsolete T-26. The corps had half of its authorized 375 tanks. Battle The German artillery bombardment on the morning of 22 June destroyed much of the 22nd Tank Division's fuel, supplies, and ammunition at Brest. A tank battalion from the 22nd Tank Division was sent towards the river and was unable to stop the crossing. Attacking on the morning of 23 June, the 200 T-26s of the 22nd and 30th destroyed numerous German tanks but suffered heavier losses. The German forces continued their attack, inflicting heavy losses on the 22nd Tank Division and killing Puganov. == Formation ==

The division was formed in March 1941 and had the following structure: • 43rd Tank Regiment • 44th Tank Regiment • 22nd Motorized Rifle Regiment • 22nd Motorized Howitzer Regiment • 22nd Reconnaissance Battalion • 22nd Motorized Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion • 22nd Motorized Pontoon Battalion • 663rd Field Post Office • 568th State Bank Field office == References ==