In the opening weeks of Operation Barbarossa, the Soviet Red Army sustained several painful defeats.

As a result of the chaotic withdrawals, a gap started to open between the Soviet defenders in the northern and central sector.

[3]: 116 The 29th Army was initially formed in July 1941 in the Moscow Military District on the basis of 30th Rifle Corps.

It joined the Front of reserve armies and conducted defensive works at Staraya Russa, Demyansk, Ostashkov, Selizharovo.

[4] In the late 1960s, the Chinese threat to the Soviet Union appeared to be increasing, and as part of the response, the corps was moved eastward.

[9] Lieutenant General Roman Kutuzov, Chief of Staff of 29th CAA was killed on 5 June 2022 during the battle for Sievierodonetsk–Lysychansk.