How conscript turnover complicates a sudden Soviet war

The timing of a 1991 war would matter because Soviet conscript experience changed with each intake and discharge cycle. With recruitment every six months and two years of service, the oldest cohort contained the most experienced conscripts. Hardliners unable to delay its release could lose that experience just as they brought in replacements, leaving at least a quarter of the force with less than six months of service. Retaining the outgoing cohort would provide additional trained personnel, but their political control was not assumed strong enough to guarantee it. The criticism also extends to sergeant selection and the burden placed on junior officers when professional leadership below them is weak.