Starshina

Starshina (Russian: старшина́, from старший – 'the older', 'chief', 'foreman') was originally a name of a ataman in the Cossack voisko. The rank of Voiskovoi Starshina (Starshina of the Voisko) was introduced into Russian military ranks in 1826 as equivalent of a Sub-Polkovnik in the Cossack cavalry.

In the Red Army, a Starshina was the highest non-commissioned officer among draftsmen; this was somewhat changed by re-introduction of higher-ranking Praporshchik in 1972. In the Red Navy, it was introduced in 1942 as a Petty Officer rank; every enlisted seaman ranking above Matrose, 1st class is a Starshina of various ranks.

The Starshina as enlisted rank is still used in Russian military ranks in both Russian Army and Russian Navy.