Soviet Assault Engineers Squad

Within these units, assault engineers had a particularly dangerous and critical role. Their job was to lead attacks on fortified enemy positions, neutralize obstacles, and clear paths for tank units to advance. Operating on the front lines, they faced extreme risks. The nature of their work required not only bravery and endurance but also a high degree of technical proficiency, as they were often under heavy fire in hostile environments.

To increase their chances of survival, some assault engineer units were issued SN-42 body armor. Designed to offer protection against shrapnel and small-caliber rounds, this armor provided a degree of safety without compromising mobility—an essential factor in close-quarters combat. Nevertheless, casualty rates among assault engineers remained high, highlighting the lethal nature of their missions. These specialized troops played a vital role in Soviet tactics, often making the difference during breakthroughs against entrenched enemy defenses.