Special Operations Forces Day. "The most difficult and dangerous job": how Russia uses the Special Operations Forces

It is intuitively clear that the special forces, based on the nature of their missions, must accordingly be equipped with "special" weapons. However, to be more precise, this implies a careful selection of the best "tools", taking into account special tasks or, undoubtedly, even one specific task.

Indeed, the weapons used by the Special Operations Forces (MTR) soldiers are "special" not so much with regard to their specific design and characteristics, but rather because the special forces themselves have the privilege of choosing them, regardless of standardization issues or any other industrial or logistic considerations based solely on their own assessments and preferences.

Indeed, a very large part of the "MTR mysticism" consists in the use of different weapons than is prescribed by a regular infantry unit, and it is not uncommon to see a MTR soldier inside the same unit carrying a different weapon.

Pictured here is the Elcan SpecterDR, which is used by the German Special Forces and is an innovative product that combines a reflex reflex sight for close-range combat and a 4x magnification telescopic sight for longer range combat. Also note the non-standard attachment of accessories to the G36 assault rifle - a distinctive feature special forces worldwide

Another aspect of "exclusivity", which consists in a thorough search for absolutely optimal solutions in the field of equipping the MTR, is that personal and crew-serviced weapons, as a rule, are almost never used in MTRs in a configuration originally produced by the manufacturer; armament should receive a whole series of design changes, improvements and additional devices.

Personal weapon

Automatic pistols (and in some cases also revolvers) represent a very strange paradox in the equipment of the MTR. While they are rapidly losing popularity as a standard combat weapon, even including minor tasks such as self-defense or weapons for non-combat personnel, they are still an integral part of the MTR arsenal and have indeed effectively replaced the combat knife as a symbol of close combat. The use of MTR pistols is usually associated with the "killing" of specific people, but in reality it is much more important to provide a deliberate close defense.

Prudence invariably requires the elimination or reduction of the noise of the shot. An important difference in this regard is silent weapons (that is, created as such or capable of using silent ammunition) and the so-called "muffled", usually due to the installation of a silencer.

Typical examples of silent pistols are the Chinese Type 64 and Type 67, both with 7.65 x 17 rimless chambers, based on the expansion chamber concept. The Russians, for their part, have developed a whole family of silent / flashless cartridges that are used in the single-action firing mechanism (non-self-cocking).

The first appropriate weapons for special forces were two small models. large caliber, MSP (cartridge SP2 7.62 × 35) and S4M (cartridge SP3 7.62 × 62.8), whose obvious limitations led in 1983 to the introduction of a semi-automatic (special self-loading pistol) with a magazine for 6 rounds. The PSS still has no analogues in the West; it is currently armed with several units of the Russian special forces (for example, the Interior Ministry's capture groups and the FSB's Alpha group).

The PSS pistol fires SP4 7.62 × 42 cartridges with a 13-gram steel bullet, designed specifically to obtain good armor-piercing power, at least against the simplest types of body armor. The Tula KBP recently introduced OT 38 chambered for SP4, which apparently was aimed at performing strong desire spetsnaz not to leave behind the shot casings.

Makarov PB represents a kind of compromise between silent and muffled weapons. It is based on the design of a standard Makarov automatic pistol and fires conventional 9x18 cartridges with a traditional removable silencer, but also has a volumetric expansion chamber around the perforated barrel. More recently, Russian special forces units appear to have adopted a silent version of the new PYa automatic pistol (known as the MP-443 Grach), selected in 2003 as the new standard pistol for the Russian Armed Forces.

Western industry and MTR soldiers were never particularly interested in silent weapons, but, nevertheless, several models of pistols were developed and manufactured specifically for the requirements of special forces (including the well-known Heckler & Koch Mk23Mod0 for the American command of special operations forces); they are all equipped with standard mufflers. Rather, the emphasis is on features such as maximum stop energy, robust construction and superior reliability, while a large magazine, usually the main requirement for military handguns, is less important.

In 2005, the US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) began the Joint Combat Pistol (JCP) program, a rather perplexing and reckless attempt to combine the American Army's Future Handgun System (FHS) and USSOCOM's own projects called Combat Pistol SSO SOFCP (Special Operations Forces Combat Pistol) in a single volume of purchases in the amount of 645,000 pistols.

Less than a year later, the program lost the letter "J" (Combat Pistol - CP) and was drastically scaled down to USSOCOM's own needs (approximately 50,000 pistols), before being postponed indefinitely until the end of 2006. Be that as it may, several potential competitors have prepared models that meet the mandatory key characteristics of the JCP / CP (45 ACP cartridge and the use of two magazines of different capacities); these include, for example, H&K HK45 and HK45C, Beretta PX4 SD, S&W MP45, FN Herstal FNP45 and Sig Sauer P220 Combat TV.

The IWI GALIL ACE is the latest 5.56mm assault rifle designed specifically for the needs of the MTR soldiers. The weapon in the picture without a sight

Aimpoint's CompM4 series of reflex scopes meet the newest version melee optics M68 Close-Combat Optic (CCO) of the American army

A special category includes automatic pistols with a chamber for powerful types of ammunition, originally developed for the PDW (Personal Defense Weapons) class, which, paradoxically enough, were intended to replace pistols. After the abolition of the H&K P46 (4.6 × 30) project, the only Western weapon in this category is the FN Herstal FiveseveN (5.7 × 28). FiveseveN has a large, roomy magazine (20 rounds), a significant range (100 m), excellent penetration power and the availability of a full family of special cartridges open up completely new perspectives regarding combat use hand weapons.

The Chinese also moved in the same direction, and in 2006 the QSW-06 model was introduced to replace the Type 67. It fires Chinese 5.8x21 rounds (two types: standard DAP92 with Vo = 895 m / s and supersonic DCV05), they are fed from a 20-round magazine, this pistol is equipped with a standard silencer.

Submachine guns (SMG)

Despite the general trends regarding standard military small arms, sub-machine guns (SMGs) are still widespread in the MTR units, despite the recent preference for compact / short-barreled assault rifles and carbines in many combat scenarios.

The most common in Western MTRs is without a doubt the ubiquitous series, available in a variety of options. For highly specialized applications, extremely compactness is appreciated, therefore, certain interest is shown in such models as, for example, the MP-5K, Micro UZI and B&T MP9 (originally Steyr TMP).

The vast majority of Western SMGs are chambered for the standard 9x19 cartridge and numerous attempts by the industry to introduce new or optimized MTR cartridges such as the 10mm Auto or .40 S&W, or "resurrect" the venerable .45 ACP have achieved little commercial success. Even the H&K UMP, firing the new + P variant of the .45 ACP cartridge, goes unnoticed in the global MTR community.

Beginning in the late 1980s, the Russian small arms industry has also re-opened the SMG market and has offered an absolutely staggering variety of new designs and models that often show a degree of innovative ingenuity, all of which, as noted, have been "adopted", "approved" or , at least, "tested" by special forces.

A partial list could include with a helicoidal magazine (suitable for 9 × 18 PM / PMM, 7.62 × 25 Tokarev and 9 × 19), (9 × 19 and 9 × 19 7N21 Russian), (9 × 18), PP-91 Kedr / Wedge (9 × 18 PMM), PP-93 (9 × 19 PMM), PP-90M1 with helicoidal magazine (9 × 19, 9 × 19 7N21 / 7N31), (9 × 19), AEK-919K Chestnut (9 × 18), OTс-02 Cypress (9 × 18) and SR-3 Veresk (rather a unique design, acting by exhausting gases, shoots powerful 9 × 21 cartridges). The helicoidal magazine is a smart idea to combine the large capacity (64 rounds for Bison) with compactness and of course it was immediately copied by the Chinese (Chang Feng 05).

Again, when it comes to muted SMGs, this is definitely the best-known H&K MP-5SD Category 1 weapon, which could in fact be considered a weapon icon for the MTR. Due to the presence of concentric expansion / decompression chambers with internal deflecting flaps, the MOP-5SD can fire a standard 9 × 19 cartridge, which, however, is made slower (subsonic speed) in order to eliminate the most important part - the sound signature (sign of visibility).

The weapon was also produced in several countries under more or less sanctioned licenses and inspired designs such as the Daewoo K7 (South Korea), FAMAE SAF-SD (Chile) and the Pindad PM-2 (Indonesia). The IWI Micro TAVOR MTAR 21 (9 × 19 variant of the compact 5.56 mm carbine) is an interesting attempt at an original modular solution, both modules have a built-in silencer.

The main disadvantage of the SMG with a built-in silencer for using the MTR is that the already very modest stopping power of their pistol-type cartridge is further reduced due to the need to reduce the bullet speed to subsonic. The Russians have been at the forefront of work on this issue, and in the past, spetsnaz have almost completely replaced their SMGs with AK-47 / AKM assault rifles with a removable silencer, they fire a special subsonic version of the 7.62 × 39 cartridge with a 193 gram bullet.

Beginning in the late 1980s, a more radical approach would be adopted to specifically develop special types of cartridges and weapons for firing them. The SP5 and SP6 subsonic 9 × 39 cartridges showed good performance in terms of practical range (up to 300 m) and penetrating ability. These cartridges are based on the M43 7.62 × 39 case with a widened neck to 9 mm and have a heavy, streamlined bullet; The SP5 has a 260 gram bullet for accuracy, while the SP6 has a 247 gram armor-piercing bullet with a hardened steel core.

The first automatic weapons created for these new cartridges were VSS Vintorez carbines from TsNII Tochmash and AS Val, followed by 9A-91 and VKS-94 from KBP, SR-3 Whirlwind from TsNII Tochmash, modular bullpup schemes SOO OTs-14 Groza from TsKIB and latest model(in 2007) AK-9 developed by Izhmash Kalashnikov. The basic (i.e. 9 × 39) version of Groza was reportedly in service with the MTR of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, while the special forces, apparently, chose the version with a chamber chambered for the original US 7.62 × 39 cartridge.

The western counterpart is the .300 "Whisper" cartridge from SSK Industries, it is based on the .221 Fireball case extended for a 7.62mm bullet; there are either subsonic (220 g, 1040 ft / s) or supersonic (125 g, 2100 ft / s) options. Several companies (for example, the French Stopson TFM) modified AR15 assault rifles for new cartridges, but very few of these rifles were sold.

As for the PDW class (Personal Defense Weapons - personal weapons for defense), then on a short time it seemed that this weapon completely lost its originally intended market (this, however, has nothing to do with its quality and characteristics), it could find a new important market niche, in fact, replacing the SMG in the arsenals of the MTR units. However, this does not happen.

Despite the clear advantages of PDW in terms of general ballistic performance and especially penetration power, whose importance will further increase due to the current widespread use of reinforced body armor, including non-combatant personnel, PDW is purchased from a relatively small large quantities for the purpose of replacing the SMG for certain specific applications, but not for their final replacement.

An important exception is the Chinese army, which is apparently going to introduce the QWC-05 bullpup rifle with a chamber for the already mentioned 5.8 × 21 cartridge, it has a 50-round magazine, and will replace the muffled Type 79 and Type 85 SMGs in service. SSO. India also appears to be heading in the same direction with the DRDO's MSMC (Modern Sub-Machine Carbine) weapon and the unique 5.56x30 round.

Optical-electronic sights for small arms

The broad category of optoelectronic sights (or perhaps more accurately sighting systems) consists of two main groups: laser / infrared and collimator devices. Regardless of the technology, their main function is to assist the shooter in capturing and destroying targets or a number of targets without using standard scopes, including very low lighting conditions (especially for laser / IR systems).

Laser / infrared pointers

The laser pointers create a beam that is visible as a small red dot on the target, corresponding to the point of impact of the bullet. This mode of operation makes them suitable for use in special combat conditions, when the stake is placed on instinctive fire "from the hip", for example, in close combat inside buildings.

There are currently two main classes of laser pointers available:
- daytime systems operating at frequencies around 620 nm to create a red dot that is visible to the naked eye under normal daytime conditions;
- night systems operating in the near infrared range and thus creating a red dot that can only be seen with night vision goggles.

Beyond this major difference, there are a number of intriguing variations and improvements possible. LAM (Laser Aiming Module) from Insight Technologies Inc., adopted by the US Special Operations Command for the OHWS / H & K Mod. 23 .45 ACP. It has a dual laser pointer operating in the visible and infrared spectrum, plus a conventional illuminator + IR source.

Another interesting model is the increasingly popular AN / PEQ-2, which, in addition to the IR pointer, also works as an IR “spotlight”, which allows (through night vision goggles) to identify a target at a long distance, as well as provide adequate combat visibility in absolute darkness (for example, at night inside a building or in a tunnel).

Collimator sights

The so-called collimator (red dot) systems work on a completely different principle, when the red dot is visualized inside the sight and superimposed on the target image, and not physically projected onto the target itself as in a laser system. Accordingly, collimator sights have no signature and nothing can be detected on the target.

Leading suppliers of red dot sights to the military and police include the Swedish company Aimpoint, which originally invented the system, as well as the American companies Tasco and Weaver. The Aimpoint Comp M model was purchased in large quantities, starting with 100,000 scopes ordered in 1997 by the US Department of Defense under the designation M-68, plus 10,000 units ordered by France in 2000, 60,000 scopes delivered to Sweden in 2003-2005, later Italy has ordered 24,000 pieces.

The M2 has enhancements such as 4 day settings and 6 low light settings, as well as new CET (Circuit Efficiency Technology) diodes to reduce power consumption. It quickly became a popular reflex sight for weapons such as the H&K MP5 series SMG, the H&K G36 and Colt M16A2 assault rifles, the Colt M4 carbine and the FN MINIMI / M249 machine gun.

The tactical model R3.5 includes additional features such as illuminated reticle and the largest magnification 3.5x (previous models were without magnification). The exit pupil with a diameter of 8 mm, combined with a wide field of view, allows you to quickly capture stationary and moving targets.

The CompM4 series of scopes (in the American army, the M68 CCO (Close-Combat Optic - close-combat optic)) is said to be the most advanced series of scopes it produces. Improvements include high energy efficiency, which shows continuous operation for 8 years on a single AA battery! CompM4 scopes have a built-in holder, which eliminates the need for a separate ring, using the vertical and front spacers, it can be mounted on various weapons systems.

Specific and potentially hazardous characteristics collimator systems are that, under certain lighting conditions, their front lens can produce reddish reflections. For this reason, some Comp M users equip their scopes with a honeycomb anti-reflective device.

Mirror systems, which could be considered a variant of the red dot technology, were first introduced several years ago by Bushnell. These devices replace conventional light points with a holographic crosshair that becomes visible when illuminated by built-in light sources and which can be selected from several different configurations (traditional or open reticle, double ring, 3-D lifting marker, etc.) ...

The main advantages of reflex sights over traditional models are the ability to increase brightness up to 20 depending on the working conditions and eliminate possible parallax errors caused by the need for the shooter to simultaneously focus his eye on the red dot and the target, which are located on two different focal planes.

Mirror systems, such as the Trijicon series, have very high accuracy and extremely high target acquisition rates, while miniaturization components make it possible to create extremely compact and lightweight devices for hand weapons. For example, this is the Docter Sight sight (46 × 25.5 × 24 mm, 25 g), which also has automatic brightness adjustment depending on the lighting conditions in the direction of the target.

The next step forward in the design of scopes and their parameters was the SpecterDR model from Elcan (Raytheon), recently adopted by the command of the MTR. It is claimed to be the world's most advanced combat optical riflescope. The SpecterDR is effectively two scopes in one, combining a wide field of view (24 °) with 1x magnification and a long range telescopic sight (4x magnification, 6.5 ° field of view).

Switching between the two aiming modes is instantaneous and unlike scopes with zoom mechanisms, the reduction in eye strain and the optical design are optimal. The battery-powered LED backlight has two ranges: one illuminates the entire crosshair for long-range use in low light and the other just illuminates a red dot in the center in close-range conditions. The zero function is included in the built-in mount, the scope mounts on the Mil-Std-1913 Picatinny rails.

The Trijiton RX01-NSN rifle scope is designed for the US military and is designed for close combat. The reticle in all SLR scopes is illuminated by both fiber optics and tritium, ensuring the needle has a bright, clearly marked aiming point in all lighting conditions. RX01-NSN is part of the SOPMOD M4 weapon systems used by the US Army Special Forces

Aimpoint CompM2 in the American army received the designation M68 CCO

Assault rifles

In most cases, MTR units are simply equipped with short-barreled / folding or compact carbine versions of standard assault rifles with telescopic butts, they are perceived as more suitable for special operations, despite their inherent losses in actual range, accuracy and penetration power.

More recent examples of variants specifically designed for unconventional combat would be the Colt CAR-15 (later M4 COMMANDO / XM177) and the Russian AKSU-74. The latest development is the Israeli IWI GALIL ACE, based on the proven mechanisms of the GALIL rifle, but with a chamber for a 5.56-mm cartridge, it is equipped with a telescopic butt. ACE is available in three different barrel lengths.

The principle of a collimator sight. The lens is used to create a virtual image (top) of the red object. By collimating the image using a reflective lens (middle) or a refractive lens (bottom), the image can be projected to infinity

In early 2004, the American command of special operations forces issued a SCAR (Special Forces Combat Assault Rifles) requirement for a family of combat assault rifles for the MTR. The basis of the requirement is two different calibers, high interchangeability of parts and identical ergonomics. After the first pre-screening tests, the SCAR system developed by FN Herstal remained the first and the only choice command. The SCAR system consists of two highly adaptable modular rifle platforms, i.e. 5.56 × 45 mm NATO SCAR-Light (or SCAR-L) and 7.62 × 51 mm NATO SCAR-Heavy (or SCAR-H), and an improved grenade launcher (EGLM or FN40GL ). Both SCAR platforms are available with two different barrel lengths: a CQC barrel for close combat and a standard barrel for longer ranges

The search for US MTR troops with increased combat flexibility led, firstly, to the development of the so-called SOPMOD kit (Special Operations Peculiar Modification - a special modification for special operations), it consists mainly of commercial ready-made accessories for the M4 carbine. Although originally developed by the MTR command for itself and issued to the Special Forces personnel, the SOPMOD kit quickly became very popular among infantry units, partly because of its inherent advantages, but also partly due to some kind of "MTR mystery".

However, in 2003, the USSOCOM command - also taking advantage of the growing interest in the MTR due to the brilliant results of their use in the open phases of Operation Permanent Freedom - decided to move beyond SOPMOD and launched a bold program for a new assault rifle specially created for its individual requirements- SCAR (SOF Combat Assault Rifle - combat assault rifle for the MTR).

Initially, SCAR was conceived as a multi-caliber modular system capable of using (of course, by replacing the barrel and other main parts) not only Western cartridges, but also Russian cartridges "freed" after operations, but since then practical considerations have led to a narrowing of the choice : Cartridges either 5.56 mm or 7.62 mm NATO standard. FN Herstal, operating through its American subsidiary FNH, developed a new family of weapons in an incredibly short time of 10 months, and after a series of comparative tests won the corresponding contract.

The SCAR's exceptional flexibility will allow USSOCOM personnel to configure their weapon as a very compact 5.56mm carbine for urban combat on one side and as a 7.62mm long-range precision reconnaissance carbine on the other. The "H" (Heavy) option will also be available for increased penetration. In practice, USSOCOM has thus cut the Gordian knot of the allegedly insufficient lethality of 5.56mm rounds through simple reception, that is, if necessary, switch to the old 7.62mm cartridge.

The SCAR is the only Western assault rifle designed specifically for use by the MTR and put into service. In USSOCOM, it should replace five types of weapons: Mk18 CQBR, M4A1, Mk12 SPR, Mk11 SASS and Mk14 EBR.

A special category can also be considered as an intermediary between SMGs and assault rifles, although in technical terms it would be more accurate to say that this is a variant of the latter. It is represented by a weapon that is available in 5.56mm and 9mm versions, or more interestingly, the user can easily switch from one caliber to another. The main logic of this two-caliber weapon is to simplify logistics, and it will also allow training on one weapon, while providing a flexible solution for the MTR personnel.

A typical newer example of this class is the IWI X95 based on. It is interesting to note that IWI originally developed and marketed only the 9mm weapon known as the Mini-TAVOR. This was a requirement of the Israeli MTR, which led to the fact that the Mini-TAVOR was abandoned and it was replaced by a two-caliber model.

MTR units were the initiators and the first users of the currently popular large-caliber long-range rifles to destroy manpower and materiel. The picture shows the McMillan TAC-50 in service with the American MTR

The IWI X95 is a typical rifle from a special category of two-caliber weapons. Allows you to quickly switch from 5.56 × 45 cartridge to 9 × 19 cartridge in accordance with the operational task

The Mk11 silenced sniper rifle was originally developed for the MTR based on a commercial product; since then it has been adopted by the American army as well

Unlike other military units, MTR soldiers have a huge interest in pistols and do use them. Pictured is a Heckler & Koch HK45 pistol in action.

Sniper rifles

MTR units often use the same bolt-action sniper rifles used by the military, despite the fact that they could get better (and more expensive) optics on occasion. Another issue, however, is the muffled sniper rifles, which are usually of little interest to the army (but this is changing now, evidence is the new M110 SASS for the American army), but extremely important for the activities of the MTR.

The Finnish Vaime SSR Mk1 (7.62mm NATO) is a very popular design, while other models have emerged, such as the Accuracy International AWC Covert with a folding stock (a rare solution for sniper rifles) and a removable barrel / built-in silencer to facilitate transport, which is rumored to be armed with the 1st SFOD-D (Delta Force group) as part of USSOCOM, the British 22 SAS rifle, and the similar French PGM Ultima Ratio / Suppressed. You need to understand that real jamming requires subsonic cartridges (either due to the design or the operation of the silencer), which sharply reduces maximum range lesions up to 200-400 meters.

However, based on the nature of their missions, MTR snipers are much more likely to use semi-automatic rifles; this has led in many cases to the adoption of advanced modification kits for existing rifles or models specially designed for the MTR.

A typical example is the Mk12Mod0 / 1 SPR (Special Purpose Rifle) with a 5.56mm NATO cartridge, created by the Crane Division of the US Naval Surface Weapons Research Center. It is based on the AR15 / M16 body, but is complemented by pre-fabricated parts, including most notably the 18-inch heavy-duty, floating-mount stainless steel rifled barrel developed by Douglas Barrel and the M4 Rail Adapter (RAS) from the Knights Armament Company. SPR, in service with the SEALS Special Operations Forces, optimized for the Mk262 cartridge with a 77 g bullet (Mod 0 = HPBT, Hollow Point Boat Tail (cartridge with a notch in the head and with a tapered tail), Mod 1 = OPM, Open Tip Match).

Before developing SPR, USSOCOM introduced sniper rifle Mk11Mod0 with 7.62mm NATO cartridge. This is a modified version of KAC's SR-25 design and was recently adopted by the US Army alongside the M110 SASS rifle (with minimal additional modifications).

Let's move on to Russia. SVD-S is a variant with a folding stock of the widespread Dragunov with a 7.62x54R cartridge. Originally designed for parachutists, it was also adopted by the special forces. A more specific design for the MTR is the SVU-OT 03, presented in 1991. This weapon of the bullpup scheme (the firing mechanism and the bolt carrier are located behind the fire control handle (inside the butt)) based on the SVD, but having a shorter barrel, while the SVU-A version has a fully automatic mode. Reportedly, the special forces are intrigued by the compactness of the weapon (total length 900 mm, weight 4 kg without accessories).

In general, the MTR units were the inventors and the first users of large-caliber weapons to destroy people and material at long distances, which has since become extremely popular in the armies of the world. Also, the requirement formulated by the Marine Special Forces in 1983 for an intermediate cartridge between 7.62 mm NATO and 12.7 × 99 (.50 BMG), which would allow shooting more accurately at distances up to about 1200-1550 m, led to the subsequent introduction and widespread use of the excellent cartridge. 388 Lapua Magnum (8.6 × 70).

The Barrett M82A1 / A3 is definitely a 12.7mm weapon that is very widespread around the world, while European models could include the Accuracy International AW-50 (AS-50 is a semi-automatic variant) and the PGM HECATE II. The Russian design, specially designed for the FSB, is very interesting. This is a semi-automatic bullpup rifle. It is equipped with a silencer built into the barrel; a unique subsonic cartridge STs-130T 12.7 mm (sleeve length is unknown) has been created for it with a monolithic bronze bullet weighing 900-1200 grams.

Machine guns

While there is no light (LMG, that is, 5.56 mm NATO) or universal (GPMG, 7.62 mm NATO) machine guns specifically for the MTR, but again the MTR fighters have an irresistible desire to modify and adapt any weapon that they could take into their hands.

For example, in 2000, USSOCOM, after a long process of testing and testing, adopted the Mk46Mod0 LMG as a deeply modernized version of the M249 LAW (FN Herstal MINIMI) of the American army. Modifications included, for example, only tape feed (alternative feed removed from the magazine), the carry handle was removed, the barrel was shortened by 40 mm, a titanium bipod was added, a new stock and Picatinny rail over the lid. The overall length has been reduced to 915 mm and the weight has been reduced to 5.9 kg.

Much the same applies to GPMG. USSOCOM initially adopted the compact version of the M60 (M60A3 / A4) with a shorter barrel, lighter bipod and forward grip. After some reliability problems due to the very intensive use of this weapon in the hands of special forces, a program was started to new lung machine gun LWMG (Light Weight Machine Gun). Despite the designation, it retained the 7.62mm NATO caliber. The competition was again won by FN Herstal with another MINIMI variant, classified by USSOCOM as Mk48Mod0. It retained the general configuration of the Mk46, but longer - 1010 mm with a 502 mm barrel and 8.28 kg heavier without ammunition.

Other Western LMG designs developed for possible CCO use are the NEGEV COMMANDO, H&K MG4E and Denel Mini SS and SS77 Compact.

Interestingly enough, Russian gunsmiths followed exactly the opposite path of development. Unlike the West, there was initially no requirement for a lighter and more compact LMG / MG, simply because such weapons as RPD, RPK-74 and PKMS were completely satisfactory in this sense.

Combat experience in Afghanistan and later in the Caucasus, however, led to the fact that the special forces formulated a requirement for a special automatic weapon of the SAW (Squad Automatic Weapon) squad. For this requirement, TsNI Tochmash developed Pecheneg as a variant of the PKM with a heavier barrel chambered for the formidable 7.62x54R cartridge. Although the weight is somewhat reduced by removing the standard for PKM quick-detachable barrel (the steel casing around the barrel helps to dissipate heat, allowing you to shoot continuously up to 600 bullets without breaking), but Pecheneg weighing 8.7 kg due to other alterations does not have weight savings.

Spetsnaz appears to be much more interested in long-range accuracy and final trajectory efficiency (a very important characteristic in mountainous terrain!), Which involves the combination of a powerful cartridge and a heavy, non-removable barrel. As a weapon, SAW squads should not be confused with LMG or MG.

The picture shows a muffled MP-5SD with a 9 × 19 SMG cartridge in the hands of a Finnish combat swimmer.

The 5.56-mm M4 carbine with the SOPMOD modification kit is currently the main individual weapon of the American MTR

Chinese Naval Special Forces soldier armed with a Type 95 5.8 × 42 assault rifle with 40mm automatic underbarrel grenade launcher AG91

There is a market for PDWs like the FN Herstal P90, but not as big as expected at the beginning

Spetsnaz is currently evaluating the further development of the PKM design, the AEK-999 Badger. It features additional enhancements such as a front grip, a sophisticated muzzle brake / flash suppressor, a slightly shortened barrel (605 mm) and a special silencer.

A particularly interesting model of special weapons for the MTR is the new 40-mm automatic grenade launcher Mk47 STRYKER. It was specially designed for the USSOCOM command and did not have any special requirements from the MTR. Rather, it was intended to be a direct replacement for the ubiquitous standard Mk19. However, the very high cost of the weapon, as well as its special ammunition with a proximity fuse, led the Pentagon to limit its production and distribution to USSOCOM units. The only possible rationale for his admission to the MTR is that the more intensive training of the special forces and the expected better fighting qualities will justify the excessive costs.

The Special Operations Forces (SSO) are a relatively new entity in the structure of the Russian Armed Forces. Its formation began in 2009, during the army reform, and was completed in 2013. Over the past five years, the MTR took part in the Crimean operation and hostilities in Syria.

Experts and journalists call this date "the day of polite people" - it was on the night of February 27, 2014 that the transfer of Russian units to Crimea began.

The servicemen blocked the facilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces on the peninsula and occupied administrative buildings.

The operation involved, in addition to the MTR units, marines, paratroopers and motorized riflemen. The professional work of the "polite people" made it possible to disarm the 30-thousandth group of Ukrainian troops practically without a single shot.

Meanwhile, the activities of the MTR is of a secret nature. The state has the right not to disclose information about the size and armament of the Special Operations Forces, and is not obliged to report on the results of operations and losses incurred.

"Asymmetric actions"

The special operations forces are a single structure, which includes units of the army special forces of different types and branches of the Armed Forces. The tasks of the MTR include conducting operations both on the territory of the Russian Federation and abroad.

The main control body of the Special Operations Forces - Command - is directly subordinate to the Chief of the General Staff of the RF Armed Forces (since November 9, 2012 - Valery Gerasimov).

• Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov
• RIA News

Western think tanks show colossal interest in the activities of the MTR. Foreign experts believe that Russia has created the Special Operations Forces to more effectively conduct foreign expeditionary missions.

According to the West, the greatest contribution to the development of the MTR was made by Valery Gerasimov, who has secured the image of a strategist of "hybrid war".

Foreign experts base such conclusions on the article of the Chief of the General Staff of the RF Armed Forces "The value of science in foresight", which was published in the journal "Military Industrial Courier" at the end of February 2013.

In his material, Gerasimov said that the Russian General Staff was studying the organization of military operations of American troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. The experience of the United States, according to Gerasimov, has demonstrated the need for change " existing models operations and hostilities ".

“Asymmetric actions have become widespread, making it possible to neutralize the enemy's superiority in armed struggle. These include the use of special operations forces and internal opposition to create a permanent front ... The ongoing changes are reflected in the doctrinal views of the leading countries of the world and are tested in military conflicts, "Gerasimov wrote.

View from the outside

Sarah Feinberg, a lecturer at the National Security Institute in Tel Aviv, in her article "Russian Expeditionary Forces in the Syrian Operation," argues that the idea of ​​uniting "mobile intervention forces" arose during the war in Afghanistan (1979-1989). Then the Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU) of the USSR Ministry of Defense opposed the creation of the MTR. However, this idea reappeared on the agenda after two Chechen campaigns.

According to Feinberg, the use of the GRU special forces and other elite units in the North Caucasus was successful and made it possible to level out the shortcomings of the combat training of combined arms units.

At the same time, the Russian special forces experienced problems in planning and conducting operations due to lack of coordination between the power departments to which they were subordinate. In this regard, the need was realized to unite parts of the army special forces into a single command structure under the control of the Chief of the General Staff.

• Russian special forces at tactical exercises
• Press service of the Ministry of Defense

The Asymmetric Warfare Group (AWG) consulting division of the US Army reports in its report "A Guide to the Russian Army of the New Generation" that MTRs appeared as a result of optimization of the size and structure of the Russian Armed Forces during the period when the Ministry of Defense was headed by Anatoly Serdyukov (2007-2012).

The army reform was aimed at downsizing the formations (transition to a brigade system) and at creating so-called battalion tactical groups.

As the AWG experts clarify, "battalion tactical groups" are mobile, well-trained units that can be deployed hundreds of kilometers from the state border in a short time.

It follows from the AWG report that "battalion tactical groups" constitute the backbone of the MTR. According to analysts, these units were first used for the “annexation” of Crimea, then they were allegedly transferred to Donbass, and since 2015 have been operating in Syria.

The Asymmetric Warfare Group believes that when forming the MTR, Russia relied on the experience of foreign countries. However, the decision to create the Special Operations Forces was made after the South Ossetian conflict (August 2008).

In 2009, the Special Operations Forces Directorate was formed on the basis of the Senezh Special Forces Center (Moscow Region, military unit # 92154). The formation of the MTR as a single clearly working organism was completed in March 2013.

Consistency and professionalism

A senior researcher at the Institute of the Ministry of Defense of Norway, Thor Bukvoll, in the materials devoted to the elite units of the RF Armed Forces, notes that the main forces of the MTR are GRU officers. Of the 14 thousand soldiers of the Special Operations Forces, 12 thousand are military intelligence officers.

Foreign analysts agree that the arsenal of the MTR includes the most modern weapons, uniforms and the latest military equipment, including communications systems and drones. Russian special forces can perform tasks at any time of the day and in any natural and climatic conditions.

• Fighter of the diving unit of the Special Operations Forces
• Press service of the Ministry of Defense

Sarah Feinberg believes that Syria has become the main "military training camp" for the Russian MTR. The tasks of the special forces in the SAR include collecting intelligence, directing artillery and aerospace forces, eliminating the leaders of gangs, conducting assault operations and sabotage activities.

"Syria is indeed the first territory in which Russia has coordinated and large-scale deployed and organized control over a contingent of expeditionary forces, including the Special Operations Forces (SSO) and various categories of special forces," Feinberg notes in his article "Russian Expeditionary Forces in the Syrian Operation."

As the expert explained, the Syrian operation allows the RF MTR to hone their skills "without additional burden on the military budget." The size of the Russian special forces grouping in the SAR Feinberg is estimated at 230-250 people. According to her, successful work The MTR in Syria testifies to the "revival of Russian military art."

The presence of Russian special forces in Syria was first announced by the deputy chief of staff of the Central Military District, Alexander Dvornikov, on March 23, 2016. Nevertheless, Russian and foreign experts are confident that the MTR operated in Syria from the very beginning of the operation (September 30, 2015) or from the summer of 2015.

“I will not hide the fact that units of our Special Operations Forces are also operating in Syria. They carry out additional reconnaissance of objects for strikes by Russian aviation, are engaged in guiding aircraft to targets in remote areas, and solve other special tasks, "Dvornikov said in an interview with Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

On December 11, 2016, the Russia 24 TV channel showed footage of the participation of military personnel of the Forces special purpose in battles in Syrian Aleppo. It is also known from the media that the MTR fighters participated in the liberation of Palmyra.

According to official data, during the entire period of the operation in the SAR, two special forces gunners were killed - Captain Fedor Zhuravlev (November 9, 2015) and Senior Lieutenant Alexander Prokhorenko (March 17, 2016). By order of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, Zhuravlev was awarded the Order of Kutuzov posthumously, Prokhorenko was awarded the title of Hero of Russia, also posthumously.

In May 2017, information about the feat of the MTR group in the Aleppo province was partially declassified.

16 Russian special forces, who were engaged in directing aviation fire, entered the battle against 300 militants of Jabhat al-Nusra *.

The commandos acted in coordination with government forces. However, the Syrians retreated in turmoil and left the detachment without cover. Russian servicemen repulsed several attacks and, when it got dark, mined the approaches to their positions.

“The density of the fire was high. But it was scary only in the first minutes, and then a banal routine begins, ”said one of the officers.

• Mortar crew of the MTR is firing at terrorists
• Frame: video RUPTLY

The fighters held their positions for two days and were able to leave without loss. During the battle, the commandos destroyed several armored vehicles and a tank. The commander of the group, Danila (not named), who received the title of Hero of Russia, noted that the well-coordinated professional actions of his subordinates were the key to success.

Alexei Golubev, a participant in counterterrorism operations in the North Caucasus, in an interview with RT, said that the MTR of Russia is rightfully called the most trained elite formation in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. In his opinion, the success of the operation in Syria would have been impossible without the Special Operations Forces.

“The classified nature of the MTR's activities is due to the fact that the fighters work outside of Russia. In Syria, special forces are thrown into the rear of the enemy for target designation of the Aerospace Forces. In my opinion, this is the most difficult and dangerous job. And, as far as I can tell, our guys are coping with it, ”Golubev emphasized.

*"Jabhat Fath al-Sham" ("Front al-Nusra", "Jabhat al-Nusra") - the organization was recognized as terrorist by the decision of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation of December 29, 2014.

Military service at all times enjoyed great honor and respect in almost any existing state... After all, it is the troops that are the force that can protect the country from external aggression. It should be noted that the history of the development of military art stretches back from ancient times. Many modern principles of building armies were laid down in Ancient Greece and Rome. With the passage of time and gradual technical evolution, new devices and technologies were included in the activities of the military. This has led to the fact that in the 21st century the art of killing in most cases is realized remotely, by means of computers, missiles, drones, etc. However, there are tasks that are simply impossible to cope with remotely or with the help of machines. That is, it is necessary to involve people with a special level of training. Military of this type exist in every state. As a rule, they are combined into subunits. In the Russian Federation, there is a similar formation within the Armed Forces. It deals with the implementation special functions, and also has its own structure, staff and features, which will be discussed later in the article.

The concept of special units

The special operations forces of the Russian Federation are special units in the structure of the Armed Forces, as already mentioned earlier. But few people understand what the category of "special units" is in general. As a rule, formations of this kind are created as part of the army, since it is in the conditions of hostilities that situations very often arise that require a special approach. But there are also special units in internal services, for example, the police, etc. Taking this into account, it can be concluded that special units are formations in the system of bodies involved in the comprehensive defense of the state, on whose shoulders it is the execution of the most dangerous and complex the essence of the missions.

Russian "analogue"

The Special Operations Forces is a unit directly part of It was developed in 2009 as a result of the global reform of the entire defense sector of the state. The unit is assigned special tasks, which will be discussed in more detail later in the article. It should be noted that the Russian special operations forces are directly subordinate to the head of the RF Armed Forces. To date, the exact number of the special unit is unknown, since it is guarded by a special regime. As for the issue of equipping the MTR, then the command approached quite professionally. In the activities of the unit, all available technical innovations in the field of military affairs are used. It should be noted that the staff of the special operations forces operates on the basis of a special service.

The main tasks of the department

The special operations forces of the Russian Federation are highly mobile units. Their employees have special military training, which increases the experience in performing important and dangerous tasks. In accordance with this, we can say that the main areas of work of the MTR have a rather specific character. They are usually implemented in a peaceful, war time both abroad and on the territory of the Russian Federation. It should be noted that the Russian special operations forces are a young unit. Many aspects and immediate goals of his work are still not fully understood. However, we can say with confidence that the special operations forces are engaged in the implementation of the task of the same name, which, in turn, has features.

Special operation concept

The presented term characterizes the military process. It differs from ordinary operations in the specifics of the conduct, goals, and also the methods of activity of its subjects. First of all, it should be noted that a special operation is carried out by military units to protect the interests of the state in a particular territory. At the same time, such actions are considered special because it is simply impossible to implement them using conventional methods and means. That is, the subjective composition of special operations is almost always highly qualified fighters of well-trained and highly mobile units. The methodological basis of their activities in most cases is the secrecy and secrecy of any actions. For this, the military special units undergo special psychological, combat, fire and other types of training. They are trained to operate both as part of a mobile group and individually behind enemy lines. The most common special operations targets are:

Sabotage;

Sabotage;

Subversive activities, etc.

The history of the creation of the MTR

It has already been pointed out that the special operations forces are a relatively young unit. In its modern form, it did not exist before. Its creation is preceded by a rather long history. The control body of the MTR was created in 2009, when the general reform of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation began. Gradually, the structure of the new division developed and expanded. By 2012, the command of the special operations forces was created. It consisted of about nine special brigades. However, the actual creation of special operations forces began in 2013. At this time, the command of this formation began to implement planned work aimed at bringing the structure of these units into proper form. According to Valery Gerasimenko, General of the Army, by March 23, 2013, the personnel of the Special Operations Forces had already been actually formed. At this time, it was being prepared for direct use both on the territory of the Russian Federation and abroad. Around the end of April 2013, the Russian Armed Forces conducted exercises that were aimed at practicing practical actions in conditions as close as possible to real ones.

Subdivision structure

The special operations forces of the Russian Federation have their own internal structure, due to the need for a prompt response to situations, the solution of which is within the scope of the unit. At the same time, the composition of the SSO, in turn, has an internal hierarchy, which makes it possible to distribute functional responsibilities between individual structural elements. Thus, the special operations forces of the Russian Federation consist of the following elements:

• Direct command located in the Moscow region.
• Special center "Snezh", which is also located in the Moscow region. It should be noted that today this center is one of the main parts of the division presented in the article. Its task is not only to train soldiers, but also to conduct special operations. Therefore, "Snezh" has a structure consisting of departments of different directions of activity, which will be discussed below.
• Special training center. Direct training of personnel takes place in this subdivision. Here, in fact, Russian special operations forces are born. In addition, fighters from other special units of the Russian Federation undergo training and retraining at the center.
• A fighting center similar to "Snezh" is "Cuba" or "Zazaborie", as it is commonly called.

Of course, it is possible that there are other special centers, but information about them can be strictly classified. This level of mystery around the MTR is not accidental. After all, the soldiers of this unit carry out operations that are far from unambiguous. It should be noted that the SEAL division, popular all over the world, "Navy seals", did not officially exist at the first stages of its development either. Only with the passage of time was the fact of its creation and real activity revealed.

The structure of the special center "Snezh"

In order to at least roughly understand how the special operations forces of the RF Armed Forces work, it is necessary to consider in more detail the composition of the Snezh special purpose center, which was mentioned earlier in the article. It should be noted that in accordance with the tasks assigned to the MTR, the structure of the center includes a number of special departments. Each of them is responsible for maintaining combat training and performing specific functions. One of these divisions is the airborne division. The fighters serving in it, in accordance with the name, constantly replenish the arsenal of ways to penetrate the enemy's rear directly through the air. That is, there is a strong emphasis on parachute jumping, as well as paragliding. The fighters of this department are comparable to the employees, but their activities and methods of landing are kept secret.

There is also a dedicated mining unit. Its fighters specialize in activities and survival in appropriate conditions. As we know, conducting special operations in the mountains has an increased level of risk, which necessitates the presence of special training of fighters. The same requirements are put forward for employees who work in the department for the destruction and seizure of enemy infrastructure, that is, buildings, headquarters, bunkers, etc.

The special operations department of the Naval Forces is inherently multipurpose. Most often it is called marine. This formation is a competitor to the "fur seals" of the United States of America. Because its activity is based on the fulfillment of the task in the waters of lakes, rivers and seas. As a rule, fighters do their work from watercraft. In addition, the functional tasks of the department include the execution of reconnaissance operations, sabotage actions on water bodies the enemy and those that are directly on the shore.

Equally important and functional is the department specializing in the protection of high-ranking government officials. In this case, its functions in some aspects overlap with the activities of the Federal Security Service.

Additional structural departments of the special center "Snezh" are withdrawal and support units. In the first case, we are talking about formations that are engaged in the withdrawal of individual MTR groups from the rear of the enemy or the location of the operation. Today, withdrawal can be carried out both by air and by land and water. The rest of the center's divisions are engaged in material support and communications. It should be noted that on the territory of "Snezh" there are special complexes that are used to provide fighters and maintain their combat form.

Russian special operations forces: how to get there?

Some young people would like to get into this unit. To date, the process of recruiting for service in the special operations forces of the Russian Federation is not exactly known. The composition of the unit, according to unclassified data, is staffed by contract servicemen. That is, all employees, without exception, are professional fighters, and not people who undergo military service. In addition, many specialists of the unit get into it after the end of special military educational institutions, in which certain faculties are provided. These are today the Ryazan Higher Airborne Command School, and nevertheless, it is possible that the personnel in the MTR is also replenished through the recruitment of people who are already serving in the units of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.

Unit conflicts

To date, special operations forces have officially been involved in the territory of the state of Syria. In this country, the unit was engaged in ground reconnaissance of the terrain to ensure the conduct of airstrikes. At the same time, the activities of the unit were confirmed by the fact, which was also covered in the media. According to the official version, in March 2016, near Palmyra, MTR fighters liberated the city. Due to the superior forces of the enemy, one of the employees of the special forces was killed. In addition to military operations in Syria, there are many unofficial reports about the activities of the MTR in other military conflicts, for example, in the North Caucasus in the process of fighting the Islamists. The most controversial is the fact of the participation of the fighters of the said unit in the Crimean crisis.

Special unit emblem

The special operations forces of Russia, the emblem of which is presented in the article, have special symbols. It is, first of all, represented by a common sign that exists among all military formations in Russia. The emblem of the RF SSO is a gray wreath, at the top of which there is a reduced emblem of the Russian Armed Forces, namely: a two-headed eagle of gold color. In the center of the special operations forces sign is a bow, the bowstring of which is pulled by an arrow with wings. This symbol also has a gold color.

So, in this article, photos of the special operations forces of the Russian Federation were presented. We also found out the main tasks and composition of this unit. Let's hope that soon there will be more information about the activities of the MTR, which will allow us to judge the quality of the work of this unit.

In our country, many holidays are celebrated dedicated to various military professions, types and types of troops.
Two years ago, a new holiday date appeared in the military calendar: on February 26, 2015 - Russian President Vladimir Putin signed Decree No. 103 "On establishing the Day of Special Operations Forces", and now every year on February 27, Russia celebrates the "Day of Special Operations Forces of the Russian Federation" ...

The Special Operations Forces of the Russian Federation (MTR RF) is a highly mobile army grouping of the forces of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation, designed to solve not only military, but also military-political tasks where the interests of Russia extend - including foreign countries and territory.

The range of tasks of the RF MTR includes: protection against attacks on Russian citizens in other countries, evacuation of embassies, important officials, as well as special operations, which mean preventive measures to destroy the leaders of bandit groups, infrastructure facilities or weapons of other countries, as well as countering saboteurs, protection of strategic facilities inside our country.

In their activities, fighters of special operations forces use methods and methods of combat operations that are not typical for conventional troops. The composition of the Special Operations Forces is classified, as are the vast majority of operations in which the Forces are involved.

From open sources: at present, the Special Operations Forces have two special-purpose centers: "Kubinka-2" and "Senezh", but if necessary, other units of the Russian army can be introduced into the MTR.

In service with the employees of the MTR units there is a variety of units and ammunition. The "nomenclature group" includes: Glock 17 pistol, AK-74M assault rifle, assault rifle underwater APS, machine gun "Pecheneg", self-loading rifle "Saiga-12S", automatic grenade launcher AGS-17 "Flame".

The list of sets of uniforms for the MTR of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation has more than a dozen items. For example, the FORT "Reid-L" anti-splinter suit; diving suit GKN-7; anti-splinter helmet 6B7-1M; body armor 6B43; armor shield "Fan-6".

MTR units use various types of vehicles, including armored vehicles, ATVs, helicopters, combat (transport) robots.

Detachment "Senezh" is the most closed division of the army, one might say the elite military intelligence, whose fighters are capable of performing tasks of any degree of danger. It is no coincidence that it was on the basis of this unit that the Special Operations Directorate was created in 2009, subordinate to the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.

Service in the MTR of the Russian Federation are regular officers and contract noncommissioned officers. Almost every serviceman of the RF SB Forces has several specialties. A characteristic feature: compulsory knowledge of foreign languages.

Not every soldier can become an employee of an elite unit. MTR representatives actually select candidates with the necessary knowledge and abilities. Preparation is carried out in special center, as well as directly at the points of permanent deployment.

Training sessions are conducted in conditions as close as possible to combat (at mountain ranges, in the Arctic, etc.).

Many MTR employees are graduates of the Ryazan Higher Airborne command school and the Novosibirsk Higher Military Command School.

The debut of the MTR of the Russian Federation was its participation in the events of three years ago - during the well-known events in Crimea, which became one of the manifestations of the "Russian Spring". The servicemen provided the Crimeans with the opportunity to freely express their will, the result of which was the reunification of Crimea and Sevastopol with Russia. It was those events that served as the choice of the date for the new military holiday.

On the night of February 27, 2014, units of the Ukrainian armed forces in Crimea were blocked and disarmed without firing a single shot, and all strategic facilities of the peninsula were occupied by the RF Special Forces fighters, who behaved politely and correctly both in relation to the Ukrainian army and to the inhabitants of the Crimean peninsula. ... The politeness of the Russian military gave birth to the concept known all over the world today: "polite people". This is one of the names of the Day of Special Operations Forces - the Day of Polite People.

Since 2015, units of the Special Operations Forces have been used in Syria for additional reconnaissance of targets for Russian aviation strikes.

The officers of the Russian Special Operations Forces, not sparing their lives, performed missions in various provinces of Syria, including the province of Homs, when the heroism of the Russian military helped the Syrian army to liberate ancient Palmyra from terrorists - a pearl of the architectural, cultural and historical heritage of the whole modern civilization... Today, in Syria, Russian Special Operations Forces units ensure the security of the Aerospace Forces airbase in Khmeimim.

With the passage of time and gradual technical evolution, new devices and technologies were included in the activities of the military. This has led to the fact that the art of fighting is largely realized remotely, through computer technology relatively new physical principles, including the principles of aiming modern weapons at the target.

However, there are tasks that simply cannot be dealt with with the help of "machines". It is necessary to involve people with a special level of training, people who are able to complete the task as efficiently as possible.

And there are such people in our country. They are not recognized on the street, they are not "promoted" by the media. We know them by their deeds, not by their names - their personal files are kept under the heading "Secret". They are known among the people, and this has already been noted as "polite people", and officially - servicemen of the Special Operations Forces. And today these heroic people holiday.

"Voennoye Obozreniye" is not ready to ignore the courage and heroism of the RF MTR servicemen and congratulates all those involved with the holiday. Complete the tasks set by the command and return home safe and sound!

For many years, the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation has been talking about the need to create a new separate structure, a separate branch of the military - the Special Operations Forces (SSO). The need to create such a structure is ripe in view of the experience of past wars and counter-terrorist operations. One of the goals of the creation of the MTR was to unite military special forces units under a single command. Before the emergence of the MTR as a full-fledged structure, the special forces brigades were subordinate to the commander of the military districts, while the GRU formed the task of the special forces, but did not directly direct the brigade. In many ways, a similar structure in armed forces USA - United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM or SOCOM).

The first unit of the MTR was the Senezh Special Purpose Center in Solnechnogorsk, a little later a similar body was created in Kubinka - the Kubinka-2 Special Purpose Center. Judging by the reports of various publications, before the departure of Anatoly Serdyukov, the new structure of development did not receive. With the coming to the post of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, the situation changed dramatically and already in April 2013, selected journalists were invited to the MTR exercises in the Caucasus. The main combat unit of the MTR is the Senezh Special Forces Center. The Special Operations Forces are shrouded in almost a greater veil of secrecy than other GRU special forces brigades. This is one of the most secret and elite structures The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation, the TsSN is armed with the most modern weapons, not only Russian, but also foreign.

"Overheard" publication in the group of the village of Paltso

A few days ago, while monitoring social networks by our team, we came across a publication in the group “ Overheard in Finger", Which spoke about the death of a certain Zhuravlev Fedor. At the same time, in the comments, the author of the post said that Fedor died in Syria:

A little later, a second publication appeared in the same group, in the comments to which another person said that Zhuravlev died in Syria. Also in the comments, one person wrote that he died in Dagestan - we will consider this version below, but this person was corrected by the author of the first post, again saying that Fedor died in Syria:

Original post
Saved copy

As always in such cases, we began to contact the authors of posts and comments under fictitious legends and fake profiles. We asked for a link to Fedor's profile on the social network Vkontakte or Odnoklassniki (so that his profile and photos could later prove or refute that he is an active serviceman of the Russian Armed Forces and was in Syria):

We also clarified how he died, where he died:

After that, we clarified in what kind of troops the deceased served:

We checked where the information came from that he died in Syria:

The person in the screenshots above is a friend of the deceased, not the closest, judging by the fact that in last time I talked to him in the summer of 2014. We are painted in green on the messages, in black - the friend of the deceased. Then we talked with another friend of the deceased. We established the patronymic of the deceased (Vladimirovich), confirmed his age (27 years), confirmed the existence of his brother Alexander, as well as his wife and daughter. In addition, the second friend also confirmed that Fedor died in Syria:

Our messages are green, and our friend is blue.

We tried to find the profiles of the deceased Fedor on social networks, but as his friends said, he did not have any social media profiles, which is quite typical for GRUs. We observed a similar thing in the course of ours - they also either did not have profiles on social networks, or they were under fake names. We also did not find the profiles of his brother and parents.

Field work

This information was too little to publish a full-fledged investigation, but the information itself was important, it was impossible to just pass by. Therefore, we passed the collected information to several journalists so that they could connect and conduct their own investigation, perhaps ask questions to relatives, officials, To the Ministry of Defense. This was before the funeral. We also decided to make a trip to the place, to the village where the parents of the deceased live and where his funeral was to take place. In the course of work with local sources, it was established that on Monday, November 23, in the native military unit of Fedor, a farewell took place with him and his deceased colleague. According to sources, this took place in Solnechnogorsk, on the shore of Lake Senezh. Sources also said that in addition to the two dead, there was another wounded.

There are two military units in Solnechnogorsk: 43292 and 92154. According to some news, both military units are located on the same territory. At the same time, on the Internet, you can find many links about military unit 92154, with a description that this is the GRU special forces, from which the Senezh Special Purpose Center, SSO was formed. There is very little information on the Internet about military unit 43292, and everything is either with the context of “GRU special forces” (but there are much fewer such references than about 92154), or without mentioning the type of troops. Many links about military unit 43292 are redirected to topics, groups with names like "military unit 92154, GRU special forces." We believe that the military unit 43292 is just the headquarters / command / garrison of the same special center “Senezh”.

We also found from local sources that the wife of the deceased lives in Solnechnogorsk, which additionally confirms that the deceased Fyodor belongs to the Senezh Center for Specialized Surveillance.

On November 13, Senior Researcher (RUSI) Igor Sutyagin published an article describing which units of the Russian Ministry of Defense are involved in the operation in Syria. This list also included a team of snipers from the Senezh Special Forces Center:

Also, on November 17, when the FSB recognized that Airbus A321, flight 7K9268 crashed as a result of a terrorist attack, Sergei Zhigarev, First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Defense Committee:

"Vladimir Vladimirovich said quite clearly that retaliation will overtake the terrorists, and I think that special operations forces can be used for this, and they operate not from the air, but on the ground."

This is nothing more than a comment from a private person, these are not statements by the State Duma itself, but it is important to note these words. Coupled with the words of Vladimir Putin that the organizers of the terrorist attack must be found and punished wherever they are, the appearance of Russia's elite special forces in Syria is more than expected.

When we began to work on this investigation together with individual journalists, it seems that the locals noticed the attention and suddenly changed in behavior: they stopped making contact, suddenly began to put forward the version that Fedor died during the counter-terrorist operation in Dagestan, and not at all in Syria. Fyodor's relatives also strictly adhere to the version that Fyodor was not in Syria and was killed during the counter-terrorist operation in Dagestan, and that he is not a special forces officer of the MTR or GRU, but a simple paratrooper.

Recall that when in June 2015 we communicated with the parents of the dead GRU special forces from the 16th separate brigade special forces of the GRU that their sons died during the counter-terrorist operation in the North Caucasus, and not in the Donbass. In addition, they received documents from the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation with exactly this version of death.

In Dagestan, there was indeed a counter-terrorist operation recently, but nothing has been reported about the security forces killed in it. In addition, the counter-terrorist operation in Dagestan began on November 22, and, according to his friends, Fyodor's death has been “known since Thursday,” that is, from November 19.

Departure to Paltso

For further investigation, we needed to establish the exact date death, as well as to receive photographs of Fyodor's grave to prove that he was an active serviceman (according to the wreaths and uniforms in the photo). To begin with, we tried to find helpers who could complete this task. We published a message about the search for assistants, while throwing in two additional cities known for their military units (Tambov and Baltiysk) to divert our eyes:

To complete the secret mission, we need people from Tambov, Bryansk and Baltiysk. Write to telegram https://t.co/6ZZnHY0zUK

But in the end we decided to go on our own, partly because it was too dangerous a task and the assistant would risk our health and freedom, in part because the assistant must be very trusted. After waiting for the funeral to end (so as not to attract too much attention), which took place on November 24, we boarded the train and arrived in Bryansk at night:

The road to the small village of Paltso took an hour and a half along the deaf, snowy roads:

Arriving at dawn in Paltso, we were faced with the task of locating the cemetery. Since the village is too small (population is only 968 people), its infrastructure facilities are not marked on navigators and maps. Fir branches with flowers, which we suddenly noticed on one of the roads in the village, helped us to find the cemetery. These branches with flowers stretched evenly from the house of the parents of the deceased to the very cemetery, which was found on the outskirts of the forest. There we quickly found Fyodor's grave:

So we established the exact date of birth of Fedor (09/11/1988) and the date of death (11/19/2015). The confirmed date of death did not coincide with the version of the counter-terrorist operation in Dagestan, which began three days after Fedor's death.

Near Fyodor's grave, we found exactly the same wreaths from the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation and from colleagues who we:

In the photo, Fedor is wearing a military uniform with the rank of captain:

The buttonholes of the Airborne Forces are visible on the collar, but this does not in any way refute Fyodor's service in the GRU special forces, the SSO special forces. Recall that the dead servicemen of the 16th separate brigade of the GRU special forces, about whom they wear exactly the same uniform, with the same buttonholes:

Anton Saveliev, soldier of the 16th Special Brigade of the GRU

For 10 days, 57 people supported us, thanks to which this moment managed to collect 2% of the planned amount. This collection is very important to us, as it will allow us to conduct more thorough investigations, devote more time to them, and and, importantly, more frequent trips to the field in search of additional evidence. For example, it took us 7,600 rubles for this trip to Paltso. We will write a more detailed report on the progress of fundraising in a separate post.

Note: we found out that many do not notice that our team can enter an arbitrary amount in the third field, including, for example, 50 kopecks.