Contribution of OSOAVIAKHIM of the Yakut Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic to the mobilization and training of combat reserves during the Great Patriotic War

Based on a wide range of archival sources introduced into scholarly discourse for the first time, this article examines the activities of the Yakut Republican Organization of OSOAVIAKHIM during the Great Patriotic War. The author provides a comprehensive analysis of the key areas of work undertaken by this defense society to mobilize and provide military training to the population for the needs of the active army. Particular attention is paid to the adaptation of all-Union programs to the extreme conditions of Yakutia: vast territories, low population density, harsh climate, and polyethnic composition. The study reveals the specifics of the regional training model, which included enhanced ski training, the development of a sniper movement, and mass training in air and chemical defense (PVKhO). Using concrete historical material, the article demonstrates both the quantitative results of the organization's work (training tens of thousands of specialists) and the systemic problems it faced: personnel shortages, lack of material and technical resources, and logistical difficulties. It is concluded that, despite the chronic under fulfillment of certain planned targets, OSOAVIAKHIM of the Yakut ASSR became a key element of the military mobilization system, making a significant contribution to the formation of combat reserves and providing unique training for conscripts to operate in complex climatic conditions.