61st Kirkenes Naval Infantry Brigade Patch, nicknamed the “White Bears”, is one of the most combat-proven and iconic marine units of the Russian Armed Forces. This patch, measuring 10×8 cm, is produced without Velcro backing, intended for permanent sewing onto uniforms, tactical gear, or patch boards.

Historical Background – 61st Naval Infantry Brigade “Sputnik”:

The 61st Separate Guards Kirkenes Red Banner Naval Infantry Brigade (Military Unit 38643) is a unit of the Russian Northern Fleet, based in Sputnik, Murmansk Oblast.

• Formed: In 1980, but its lineage traces back to WWII marine rifle brigades.

• Combat Participation:

  • WWII (Kirkenes operation in Norway)

  • Chechnya

  • Syria

  • Ukraine (2022–2024): Known participation in battles around Kharkiv, Liman sector, Donetsk, Kherson direction, and Dnipro’s left bank

• Nickname: “White Bears” – a reference to Arctic operations and symbolic resilience.

The brigade remains a key rapid deployment amphibious force in Russia’s Arctic and expeditionary strategy.

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