in december 1930, rodin became the assistant commander and then commander of the 234th rifle regiment. he became commander of the separate tank battalion and tank troops in the 25th rifle division from december 1933. in 1934, he graduated from the commanders' technological improvement courses. in 1936, rodin was awarded the order of the red star for his unit's performance in training. he transferred to the reserve in april 1938 but restored to active service in may 1939. rodin became commander of the 21st tank brigade's 27th tank battalion. in september, he led the unit in the soviet invasion of poland. at the beginning of 1940, the 24th tank division's 24th tank regiment was formed under rodin's leadership. between 12 february and march he led it in the winter war. in december 1940, rodin was given command of the 23rd light tank brigade, which became the 47th tank division in march 1941, part of the 18th mechanized corps.