The Figure: WWII Soviet Paratrooper Submachine Gunner (VDV Assaulter)
This toy minifigure represents a Submachine Gunner (“Assaulter”) of the Soviet Airborne Forces (VDV) during World War II. He is a specialized infantryman from the same squad as the previously described officer, equipped for high-intensity combat.
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Uniform (Amoeba Camouflage): Like his squad leader, he wears the “Ameba” (Amoeba) Camouflage Coverall (Maskirovochnyy Kombinezon). This one-piece baggy suit features large, irregular brown shapes on a tan background, designed to distort the soldier’s outline during airborne drops and reconnaissance missions.
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Tactical Gear (Chest): The defining feature of this “Assaulter” figure is his chest rig. Unlike the officer (who carried a pistol), this soldier wears a Three-Cell Magazine Pouch on his chest. These pouches were designed to hold stick magazines for the PPSh-41 or PPS-43 submachine guns, the primary weapons of Soviet shock troops. This loadout ensures he has rapid access to ammunition during a firefight.
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Insignia: He sports the distinctive Sky Blue Collar Tabs (Petlitsy) of the Soviet Air Force and Airborne troops, marking him as an elite paratrooper.
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Equipment (Back): The back printing reveals a light canvas “Y-Harness” suspension system. He carries a round Canteen (Feldflasche) strapped to his belt, essential for survival behind enemy lines.
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Appearance: The face print depicts a focused soldier with thick eyebrows and a determined expression, ready for battle.
Historical Background: Soviet Paratroopers (Desantniki) were heavily armed with submachine guns like the PPSh-41 because their doctrine emphasized overwhelming firepower at close range. When dropped behind German lines, these “Assaulters” needed to secure landing zones and disrupt enemy communications quickly. The Amoeba camouflage suit was vital for their survival, as they often operated in autumn forests or grassy steppes where standard uniforms would stand out.
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