Special Operations Forces (SSO) are a relatively new formation in the structure Armed Forces Russia. Its formation began in 2009, during the army reform, and was completed in 2013. Over the past five years, the Special Forces took part in the Crimean operation and combat operations 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 military blocked Ukrainian Armed Forces facilities on the peninsula and occupied administrative buildings.

In addition to MTR units, the operation included marines, paratroopers and motorized riflemen. The professional work of “polite people” made it possible to disarm a 30,000-strong group of Ukrainian troops practically without firing a single shot.

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

"Asymmetrical Actions"

Special operations forces are a single structure that includes army special forces units different types and childbirth of the sun. The tasks of the MTR include conducting operations both on the territory of the Russian Federation and abroad.

The main governing body of the Special Operations Forces - the 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 Novosti

Western countries are showing enormous interest in the activities of the MTR. think tanks. Foreign experts believe that Russia has created Special Operations Forces for more effective implementation foreign expeditionary missions.

According to the West, the greatest contribution to the development of the MTR was made by Valery Gerasimov, who gained the image of a “hybrid war” strategist.

Foreign experts base similar conclusions on the article by the Chief of the General Staff of the RF Armed Forces, “The Value of Science in Foresight,” which was published in the Military-Industrial Courier magazine at the end of February 2013.

In his material, Gerasimov said that the Russian General Staff studied the organization of military operations American troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. The US experience, Gerasimov believes, has demonstrated the need to change “the existing models of operations and combat operations.”

“Asymmetrical 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 changes taking place 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

Institute Teacher national security in Tel Aviv, Sarah Feinberg, in the 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 Fainberg, the use of GRU special forces and other elite units in the North Caucasus was successful and made it possible to level out the shortcomings in the combat training of combined arms units.

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

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

The consulting division of the US Army Asymmetric Warfare Group (AWG) in the report “Manual on the Next Generation Russian Army” reports that the SOF appeared as a result of optimizing 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 disaggregating formations (transition to a brigade system) and creating so-called battalion tactical groups.

As AWG specialists clarify, “battalion tactical groups” are mobile, well-trained units that can be quickly deployed hundreds of kilometers from the state border.

From the AWG report it follows that “battalion tactical groups” form 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 they have been operating in Syria.

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

In 2009, on the basis of the Special Purpose Center "Senezh" (Moscow region, military unit No. 92154) the Directorate of Special Operations Forces was formed. The formation of the MTR as a single, clearly functioning organism was completed in March 2013.

Coherence and professionalism

Senior researcher at the Institute of the Norwegian Ministry of Defense Thor Bookvoll in materials dedicated to elite units The RF Armed Forces notes that the core of the MTR is GRU officers. Of the 14 thousand Special Operations Forces soldiers, 12 thousand are military intelligence officers.

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

• Soldier 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 Russian special forces. The tasks of special forces in the SAR include collecting intelligence, directing artillery and airborne forces fire, eliminating the leaders of gangs, conducting assault operations and sabotage activities.

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

As the expert explained, the Syrian operation allows the Russian Special Forces to hone their skills “without additional burden on the military budget.” Fainberg estimates the size of the Russian special forces group in the SAR 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 Deputy Chief of Staff of the Central Military District Alexander Dvornikov on March 23, 2016. Nevertheless, Russian and foreign experts are confident that the SOF have been operating in Syria from the very beginning of the operation (September 30, 2015) or since 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 targets for strikes 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 Rossiya 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 MTR soldiers 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 Fyodor Zhuravlev (November 9, 2015) and senior lieutenant Alexander Prokhorenko (March 17, 2016). By order of Russian President 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 province of Aleppo was partially declassified.

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

The special forces acted in coordination with government forces. However, the Syrians retreated in confusion and left the detachment without cover. Russian troops repelled several attacks and, when it got dark, mined the approaches to their positions.

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

• A MTR mortar crew fires at terrorists
• Frame: video RUPTLY

The fighters held their positions for two days and were able to leave without losses. During the battle, the special forces destroyed several armored vehicles and a tank. Group commander Danila (last name not given), who received the title of Hero of Russia, noted that the key to success was the coordinated professional actions of his subordinates.

A participant in counter-terrorism operations in the North Caucasus, Alexey Golubev, in a conversation with RT, said that the Russian Special Forces are 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 deployed behind enemy lines to target the air forces. In my opinion, this is the most difficult and dangerous work. And, as far as I can judge, our guys are coping with it,” Golubev emphasized.

*“Jabhat Fatah al-Sham” (“Al-Nusra Front”, “Jabhat al-Nusra”) - the organization is recognized as terrorist by decision Supreme Court RF dated December 29, 2014.

It is intuitively clear that special forces, based on the nature of their tasks, should 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, of course, even one specific task.

Indeed, the weapons used by special operations forces (SOF) soldiers are "special" not so much in terms of 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 logistical considerations, based solely on your own assessments and preferences.

Indeed, a very large part of the "mystique of the SOF" is the use of weapons other than those assigned to a conventional infantry unit, and it is not uncommon to see an SOF soldier within the same unit carrying a different weapon.

The picture shows the Elcan SpecterDR sight, it is used by German special forces and is an innovative product that combines a reflex sight for close combat and optical sight with 4x magnification for longer range combat. Also note the non-standard attachment of accessories to the G36 assault rifle – distinguishing feature special forces all over the world

Another aspect of “exclusivity”, which consists in a careful search for absolutely optimal solutions in the field of equipping the MTR, the fact is that personal and crew-served weapons, as a rule, are almost never accepted for use in the MTR in the configuration originally manufactured by the manufacturer; weapons should receive a whole series constructive changes, improvements and additional devices.

Personal weapon

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

Prudence certainly requires the elimination or reduction of gunshot noise. An important distinction in this regard is between weapons that are silent (that is, those built as such or capable of using silent ammunition) and those that are called "silenced", usually by installing a silencer.

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

The first appropriate weapons for special forces were two small models large caliber, SME (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; several units of Russian special forces are currently armed with it (for example, capture groups of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Alpha group of the FSB).

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

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

Western industry and SOF soldiers have never been particularly interested in silent weapons, but, nevertheless, several models of pistols were designed and manufactured specifically for the requirements of special forces (including the well-known Heckler & Koch Mk23Mod0 for the US Special Operations Command); all are equipped with standard mufflers. The emphasis is rather on characteristics such as maximum stopping energy, rugged construction and superior reliability, while a large magazine is usually a major requirement for military hand weapons, is less important here.

In 2005, US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) began a program to combat pistol JCP (Joint Combat Pistol), it was a rather puzzling and ill-advised attempt to combine the Future Handgun System (FHS) American army and USSOCOM's own projects called the SOFCP Combat Pistol (Special Operations Forces Combat Pistol) into a single purchase volume of 645,000 pistols.

Less than a year later, the program lost its "J" (Combat Pistol - CP) and was decisively scaled back to USSOCOM's own needs (approximately 50,000 pistols) before being shelved indefinitely until late 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 the H&K HK45 and HK45C, Beretta PX4 SD, S&W MP45, FN Herstal FNP45 and Sig Sauer P220 Combat TV.

IWI GALIL ACE is the latest example of a 5.56 mm assault rifle, created specifically for the needs of MTR soldiers. The weapon in the picture is without a scope

Aimpoint's CompM4 series of red dot sights match the US Army's latest M68 Close-Combat Optic (CCO)

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 cancellation of the H&K P46 (4.6x30) project, the only Western weapon in this category is the FN Herstal FiveseveN (5.7x28). FiveseveN's large capacity magazine (20 rounds), significant range (100 m), excellent penetrating power and the availability of a full family of special cartridges open up completely new prospects regarding combat use hand weapons.

The Chinese were also moving in the same direction, and in 2006 the QSW-06 model was introduced to replace the Type 67. It fires Chinese 5.8x21 cartridges (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 the standard military small arms, SMG (sub-machine guns) submachine guns are still widespread in MTR units, despite the recent definite preference given to compact/short-barreled models of assault rifles and carbines in many combat scenarios.

The most common in Western MTRs, without a doubt, is the ubiquitous series, available in many variants. For highly specialized applications, extreme compactness is valued above all, which is why there is some interest in models such as the MP-5K, Micro UZI and B&T MP9 (originally Steyr TMP).

The vast majority of Western SMGs are chambered in the standard 9x19 cartridge, and numerous industry attempts to introduce new or MTR-optimized cartridges, such as the 10mm Auto or .40 S&W, or to "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, remains unnoticed in the global MTR community.

Beginning in the late 1980s, the Russian handgun industry also re-opened the SMG market and offered an absolutely stunning variety of new designs and models that often show a degree of innovative ingenuity, all of which were noted to be "accepted", "approved" or , at least “tested” by special forces.

A partial list could include with helical magazine (suitable for 9x18 PM/PMM, 7.62x25 Tokarev and 9x19), (9x19 and 9x19 7N21 Russian), (9x18), PP-91 Kedr /Wedge (9×18 PMM), PP-93 (9×19 PMM), PP-90M1 with helical magazine (9×19, 9×19 7N21/7N31), (9×19), AEK-919K Kashtan (9 ×18), OTs-02 Cypress (9×18) and SR-3 Veresk (rather a unique design, acting by gas removal, fires powerful 9×21 cartridges). The helical magazine is a clever idea to combine high capacity (64 rounds on the Bison) with compactness and of course it was promptly copied by the Chinese (Chang Feng 05).

And again, when it comes to suppressed SMGs, this is definitely the best known representative of the first category weapon, the H&K MP-5SD, which in fact could be considered as an “icon” weapon for the MTR. Thanks to the presence of concentric expansion/decompression chambers with internal deflection flaps, the MOP-5SD can fire a standard 9x19 cartridge, which, however, is made slower (subsonic speed) in order to eliminate the most important part - the sound signature (a 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 Pindad PM-2 (Indonesia). The IWI Micro TAVOR MTAR 21 (9x19 variant of the compact 5.56mm carbine) is a interesting attempt original modular solution, both modules have a built-in silencer.

The main disadvantage of SMGs with a built-in suppressor for MTR use is that the already modest stopping power of their pistol cartridge is further reduced due to the need to reduce the bullet's speed to subsonic. The Russians were on cutting edge work on this issue, and in the past, special forces have almost completely replaced their SMGs with AK-47/AKM assault rifles with a removable silencer, it fires a special subsonic version of the 7.62x39 cartridge with a bullet weighing 193 grams.

Starting from the late 80s, a more radical approach would be adopted to the special development of special types of cartridges and weapons for firing them. Subsonic 9×39 SP5 and SP6 cartridges showed good characteristics regarding practical range (up to 300 m) and penetration ability. These cartridges are based on the M43 7.62x39 case with a neck extended to 9mm and feature 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 the VSS Vintorez carbines from Central Research Institute Tochmash and AS Val, followed by 9A-91 and VKS-94 from KBP, SR-3 Whirlwind from Central Research Institute 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) variant of the Groza is reported to be in service with the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs SSO, while the special forces apparently chose the version chambered for the original US 7.62×39 cartridge.

The Western analogue is the .300 “Whisper” cartridge from SSK Industries, it is based on the .221 Fireball cartridge case expanded to accommodate a 7.62 mm bullet; There are either subsonic (220 g, 1040 ft/s) or supersonic (125 g, 2100 ft/s) options. Several companies (such as the French Stopson TFM) modified AR15 assault rifles to chamber new cartridges, but very few of these rifles were sold.

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

Despite the clear advantages of PDW in terms of overall ballistic performance and especially penetration power, the importance of which will further increase due to the current widespread use of reinforced body armor, including by non-combatant personnel, PDW is purchased in relatively Not large quantities for the purpose of replacing SMGs for certain specific applications, but not as a permanent replacement.

An important exception is Chinese army, which is apparently going to introduce the QWC-05 bullpup rifle with a chamber for the already mentioned 5.8x21 cartridge, it has a magazine for 50 rounds, and will replace the suppressed SMG Type 79 and Type 85, which are in service with the MTR. India also seems to be moving in the same direction with the MSMC (Modern Sub-Machine Carbine) weapon produced by DRDO and the unique 5.56x30 cartridge.

Optical-electronic sights for small arms

The broad category of electro-optical sights (or perhaps more accurately sighting systems) consists of two main groups: laser/infrared and red dot devices. Regardless of the technology, their primary function is to assist the shooter in acquiring and destroying a target or range of targets without the use of standard sights, including in very low light conditions (especially laser/IR systems).

Laser/infrared pointers

Laser pointers produce 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 emphasis is on instinctive fire “from the hip,” for example, in close combat inside buildings.

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

Beyond this basic difference, a number of intriguing variations and improvements are possible. LAM (Laser Aiming Module) from Insight Technologies Inc., adopted by the US Special Operations Command for the OHWS/H&K Mod pistol. 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) identification of a target at long range, as well as providing adequate combat visibility in absolute darkness (for example, at night inside a building or in a tunnel).

Collimator sights

So-called collimator (red dot) systems work on a completely different principle, where the red dot is visualized inside the sight overlaid on the target image, rather than physically projected onto the target itself as in a laser system. Accordingly, red dot sights do not have a 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 sights 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 sights delivered to Sweden in 2003–2005, later Italy ordered 24,000 units.

The M2 features 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 red dot 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 R3.5 tactical model includes additional features such as illuminated reticle and the highest magnification of 3.5x (previous models were non-magnified). The 8mm exit pupil combined with a wide field of view allows you to quickly acquire stationary and moving targets.

The CompM4 series of sights (in the US military the M68 CCO (Close-Combat Optic) is a close-combat optic) is said to be the most advanced series of sights it produces. Improvements include high energy efficiency, which shows permanent job for 8 years from one AA battery! CompM4 scopes have a built-in mount, eliminating the need for a separate ring, and can be mounted to various systems weapons.

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

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

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

Mirror systems, such as the Trijicon series, have very high accuracy and extremely high speed target acquisition, while miniaturization components make it possible to create extremely compact and lightweight devices for hand-held weapons. For example, this is the Docter 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.

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

Switching between the two sighting modes is instantaneous and, unlike sights with magnification mechanisms, the reduction in eye strain and optical design are optimal. The battery-powered LED illumination has two ranges: one that illuminates the entire crosshair for long-range, low-light applications, and another that illuminates just the red dot in the center for close-quarters use. The zero function is included in the integral mount, the scope is mounted on Mil-Std-1913 Picatinny rails.

The Trijiton RX01-NSN mirror sight is designed for the US military and is designed for close combat. The reticle on all reflex sights is illuminated with both fiber optics and tritium, providing shooters with a bright, clearly defined aiming point in any light. The RX01-NSN is part of the SOPMOD M4 weapon systems used by US Army Special Forces

Aimpoint CompM2 in the US Army received the designation M68 CCO

Assault rifles

In most cases, SOF units are simply equipped with short-barreled/folding or compact carbine variants of standard assault rifles with telescopic stocks; these are perceived as more suitable for special operations, despite their inherent losses in actual range, accuracy and penetrating 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 with three barrels different lengths.

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

At the beginning of 2004, the American command of special operations forces issued a requirement for SCAR (Special Forces Combat Assault Rifles) 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 tests in the preliminary selection, the SCAR system developed by FN Herstal remained the first and only choice of the command. The SCAR system consists of two highly adaptable modular rifle platforms, i.e. 5.56x45mm NATO SCAR-Light (or SCAR-L) and 7.62x51mm 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 American SOF military personnel to increase 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 off-the-shelf accessories for the M4 carbine. Although originally developed by the MTR command for themselves and issued to special forces personnel, the SOPMOD kit quickly became very popular among infantry units, partly due to its inherent advantages, but also partly due to a certain “MTR mystique.”

However, in 2003, the USSOCOM command - also taking advantage of the growing interest in SOF due to the brilliant results of their use in the open phases of Operation Enduring 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 is a combat assault rifle for 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, "liberated" after the operations, but since then practical considerations have led to a narrowing of the choice: cartridges of either 5.56 mm or 7.62 mm NATO standard. FN Herstal, through its American subsidiary FNH, developed the new family of weapons in an incredibly short period 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 carbine for long-range precision fire reconnaissance on the other. The “H” (Heavy) option will also be available to increase penetration power. In practice, USSOCOM has thus cut the Gordian knot of the perceived lack of lethality of the 5.56mm round by simple trick, that is, if necessary, switch to the old 7.62 mm cartridge.

SCAR is the only Western assault rifle, created specifically for the use of the MTR and adopted for service. In USSOCOM, it is intended to replace five weapons: the Mk18 CQBR, M4A1, Mk12 SPR, Mk11 SASS and Mk14 EBR.

You can also consider special category 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 weapons that are available in 5.56 mm and 9 mm variants, or what is more interesting, 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 simultaneously providing a flexible solution for SOF personnel.

Typical the latest example This class is IWI X95, based on . It is interesting to note that IWI initially developed and marketed only a 9mm weapon known as the Mini-TAVOR. This was a requirement of the Israeli MTR, which led to the Mini-TAVOR being abandoned and replaced by a two-caliber model.

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

The IWI X95 is a typical rifle from a special category of two-caliber weapons. Allows quick transition from 5.56x45 to 9x19 cartridge to suit operational needs

The suppressed Mk11 sniper rifle was originally developed for SOF use based on a commercial product; since then it has also been adopted by the American army

Unlike other military units, SOF soldiers maintain a great interest in pistols and actually use them. The picture shows the Heckler&Koch HK45 pistol in action

Sniper rifles

SOF units often use the same bolt-action sniper rifles that the Army has adopted, even though they could have gotten better (and more expensive) optics if needed. Another issue, however, is suppressed sniper rifles, which are usually of little interest to the army (but this is changing, as evidenced by the new M110 SASS for the US army), but are extremely important for SOF activities.

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

However, based on the nature of their tasks, SOF 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 specifically created for the MTR.

A typical example is the Mk12Mod0/1 SPR (Special Purpose Rifle) with the NATO 5.56 mm cartridge, created by the Crane Division of the US Navy Surface Weapons Systems Research Center. It is based on the AR15/M16 body, but is complemented by off-the-shelf parts, most notably an 18-inch heavy-duty stainless steel rifled barrel with a floating mount designed by Douglas Barrel and an M4 Rail Adapter (RAS) from Knights Armament Company. SPR, used by the Navy SEALS special operations forces, optimized for the Mk262 cartridge with a 77 g bullet (Mod 0 = HPBT, Hollow Point Boat Tail), Mod 1 = OPM, Open Tip Match (increased accuracy)).

Prior to the development of the SPR, USSOCOM introduced sniper rifle Mk11Mod0 with 7.62 mm NATO cartridge. It is a modified version of the KAC SR-25 design and has also recently been adopted by the US Army along with the M110 SASS rifle (with minimal additional modifications).

Let's move on to Russia. The SVD-S is a folding stock variant of the widely used Dragunov with the 7.62x54R cartridge. Originally developed for paratroopers, it was also adopted by special forces. A more MTR-specific design is the SVU-OT 03, introduced in 1991. This is a bullpup weapon (the trigger mechanism and bolt carrier are located behind the fire control handle (inside the butt)) based on the SVD, but with a shorter barrel, while the SVU-A version has a completely 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, SOF units were the inventors and early adopters large-caliber weapons for the destruction of people and material on long distances, which has since become extremely popular in armies around the world. Also, the requirement formulated by Marine Special Forces in 1983 for a cartridge intermediate between the 7.62mm NATO and 12.7x99 (.50 BMG) that would allow more accurate shooting at ranges out to approximately 1200–1550m led to the subsequent introduction and widespread adoption of the excellent cartridge .338 Lapua Magnum (8.6×70).

The Barrett M82A1/A3 is definitely a 12.7mm materiel-killing rifle that is very common around the world, while European models might include the Accuracy International AW-50 (AS-50 is a semi-automatic variant) and the PGM HECATE II. The Russian design, specially developed for the FSB, is very interesting. This is a semi-automatic bullpup rifle. It is equipped with a silencer built into the barrel, and a unique subsonic cartridge STS-130T 12.7 mm (case length unknown) with a monolithic bronze bullet weighing 900–1200 grams was created for it.

Machine guns

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

For example, in 2000, USSOCOM, after a long process of testing and testing, accepted the Mk46Mod0 LMG as a deeply modernized variant of the US Army's M249 LAW (FN Herstal MINIMI). Modifications included, for example, belt feed only (alternative feed from the magazine was removed), the carry handle was removed, the barrel was shortened by 40 mm, a titanium bipod was added, a new stock and a Picatinny rail on top of the cover. The overall length is reduced to 915 mm and weight to 5.9 kg.

Almost the same applies to GPMG. USSOCOM initially adopted a compact variant of the M60 (M60A3/A4) with a shorter barrel, lightweight bipod and foregrip. After some reliability problems due to the very heavy use of these weapons in the hands of special forces, a program was started to new lung machine gun LWMG (Light Weight Machine Gun). Despite the designation, it retains 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 was longer - 1010 mm with a 502 mm barrel and 8.28 kg heavier without ammunition.

Other Western LMG designs developed for possible use The MTRs are 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 lighter and more compact LMG/MG, simply because weapons such as the 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 from the SAW (Squad Automatic Weapon). To meet this requirement, TsNI Tochmash developed the 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 PKM quick-release barrel (the steel casing around the barrel helps dissipate heat, allowing up to 600 bullets to be fired continuously without breaking), the 8.7 kg Pecheneg does not have any weight savings due to other modifications.

Special Forces seem to be much more interested in long-range accuracy and end-of-trajectory (very important characteristic in mountainous areas!), which involves a combination of a powerful cartridge and a heavy, non-removable barrel. As a squad weapon, the SAW should not be confused with an LMG or MG.

The picture shows a suppressed MP-5SD with a 9x19 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 SOF

Chinese soldier naval special forces, armed with a Type 95 5.8×42 assault rifle with a 40-mm AG91 automatic grenade launcher

There is a market for PDWs such as the FN Herstal P90, but it is not as large as initially expected

Special forces are currently assessing further development PKM designs, AEK-999 Badger. It has additional enhancements such as a foregrip, a sophisticated muzzle brake/flash hider, a slightly shorter barrel (605mm) and a special suppressor.

A particularly interesting model special weapons for the MTR is the new 40-mm automatic grenade launcher Mk47 STRYKER. It was specifically designed for USSOCOM command and did not have any special requirements from the SOF. 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 logical justification for his joining the SOF is that more intensive training of special forces and the expected better fighting qualities would justify the excessive costs.

Home Encyclopedia Dictionaries More Strategic Missile Forces

Special Operations Forces (SSO)

Specially created, trained and equipped formations, units and units in the armed forces of a number of states, designed to conduct sabotage and reconnaissance operations, organize insurgent activities and armed attacks, including providing assistance to foreign states in ensuring their internal security.

The MTR primarily includes “special forces” formations, which in most states are called “commandos” or “rangers”; As part of military fleets, similar tasks are performed by units of combat swimmers. MTR are contained in constant readiness for immediate use and can solve problems in peacetime, in conflict situations and during the war, acting both as part of heterogeneous forces in the theater of operations and independently. The operations they carry out, as a rule, are secret in nature and are under the direct control of senior military leadership or commanders-in-chief of the armed forces in theaters of war. The SOF are equipped with a variety of small arms and bladed weapons (both those in service with the Armed Forces and specially developed models), light artillery pieces, grenade launchers, MANPADS, sets of explosive devices, optical-electronic equipment, small-sized radio and satellite communications equipment, light vehicles, parachute -landing and light diving equipment, technical means of propaganda, etc. Personnel training is carried out in special training centers and schools. The program includes parachute training, training in the use of all types of weapons, including weapons of foreign armies, driving vehicles, sabotage methods of combat, mine-explosive, light diving and radio operations, studying methods of collecting intelligence information, conducting undercover work, knowledge foreign languages, customs of countries of operational destination, methods of penetration behind enemy lines, survival in extreme conditions etc.

The fulfillment of the tasks assigned to them in the positional areas of the missile divisions will be carried out in the form of a special operation, during which intelligence information about the most important military installations will be obtained, the destruction or disabling of these objects, as well as the organization of sabotage and sabotage and terrorist acts.

The most numerous MTRs were created in the USA (over 45 thousand people). Organizationally, they are consolidated into a joint special operations command, to which the command of joint special operations and the command of special operations of the armed forces (ground forces, air force, navy) are subordinated. The Joint Special Operations Command does not have a permanent MTR staff. In fact, it is represented by a headquarters engaged in developing optimal options integrated use MTR of aircraft types. SOF NE include formations of regular troops, army reserve and national guard. Regular formations include 5 Special Forces Groups, 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment Delta, 75th infantry regiment Rangers Regiment army aviation, a psychological operations group, a communications battalion with the civil administration, communications battalions, logistics support and 5 commands for supporting special operations in theaters. The Army Reserve includes 2 special forces groups, 3 group headquarters, 9 battalion headquarters and 27 psychological operations companies. The National Guard has 2 special forces groups and an army aviation battalion.

On last week American edition The National Interest published a publication dedicated to the Russian Special Operations Forces, praising their combat effectiveness. According to the magazine's authors, these units are one of the most serious threats to Russia's opponents. “Our Version” decided to find out what the Special Operations Forces of the Russian Armed Forces actually are.

As such, the Special Operations Forces (SOF) have existed for four years, and previously they did not particularly attract the attention of either domestic or foreign specialists. Everything changed on February 27 of this year, when Vladimir Putin congratulated them on the holiday - Special Operations Forces Day, recently introduced into the calendar. This assessment of the type of troops speaks at least about the significant role that these troops are assigned today. At the same time, it is not known for certain what exactly the Russian Special Operations Forces are; even the name of the head of this structure remains under the cover of secrecy. Some sources report that it was initially headed by General Alexey Dyumin, being the deputy head of the GRU ( former boss protection of Vladimir Putin, now governor Tula region). This seems to be true, since at first it was reported that the Special Operations Forces would be led by one of the General Staff structures with a permanent staff. At the same time, it is possible that today, due to the complexity and exceptional importance of the tasks performed by the MTR, the chief has taken over direct control General Staff Valery Gerasimov, who has extensive combat experience.

Personnel for the MTR are prepared by the GRU and the FSB

There is no information about the number and structure of the MTR. In 2013, when their creation was announced, it was announced that they would include 10 GRU special forces brigades. In addition, battalions will be operationally subordinate to the command of the Special Operations Forces Marine Corps Navy, Airborne troops and Air Force units, including transport and unmanned aircraft. At the same time, taking into account the costs of providing and training such a unit and relying on world experience, a number of experts estimate the core of the Special Operations Forces at a maximum of 800–1000 people. The remaining units that are formally included do not have the necessary level of training.

Special operations forces have been compared to the elite American Delta Force, whose troops are deployed around the world.

It was possible that the MTR would include special forces of the FSB, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, as well as units of the FSO, FSIN and FSKN. It is interesting that the option of creating joint Special Operations Forces under the auspices of the CSTO was initially considered, but this, apparently, is too closed a structure, with sensitive tasks, to attract even allies.

Today it is obvious that huge amounts of money are being invested in equipping the MTR, an arsenal of high-tech weapons is being created and military equipment, which are developed exclusively for these forces. Some of the weapons are already being tested in combat conditions. This is clearly hinted at by the Ministry of Defense, which regularly posts videos about the actions of the Special Forces in Syria on YouToube, where, as if by chance, they are “exposed” modern systems weapons, weapons, new armored vehicles, as well as various types military vehicles and other means, including combat robots. In addition, it was officially and unofficially reported that the MTR has specialists who use the most modern computer and satellite technologies, as well as electronic warfare systems. It is separately mentioned that special forces soldiers have special form And protective equipment, which protect from bullets and shrapnel, as well as from extreme climatic conditions. At the appropriate level is also combat training. Thus, The National Interest reports that the Russian Special Operations Forces use a special system, which includes parachuting, mountaineering and diving. One of the most important areas of training is sniper training, special forces are also trained to fight in the city and protect high-ranking military officials in combat zones. By the way, a number of sources confirm that it was the MTR unit that saved former president Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych.

The main principle of training MTR fighters is not just to individually prepare a fighter with excellent skills and abilities, but to create a team that acts as a single whole. Candidates for MTR are sought mainly in airborne units and special forces. To get into the elite squad, you need to pass entrance tests, which check physical training future MTR fighters, their personal qualities, and most importantly – the ability to work in a team. In tactical training, one of the main areas is the ability to act autonomously, at a considerable distance from the main forces, deep behind enemy lines. Training takes place at the Senezh GRU Specialist Training Center, established in 1999 in Solnechnogorsk near Moscow. It was also reported that in Kubinka, near Moscow, on the basis of the 45th Airborne Regiment, a center for training contract special forces was created, where the experience of the FSB special unit “Alpha” is used.

Designed to intimidate

Today, Special Operations Forces are surrounded by an aura of mystery, superiority and invincibility, which gives them weight and is an additional factor of influence on the enemy. This, however, is what they do in other countries. Let us remind you that such units are not a Russian invention; they have been operating successfully for a long time in almost all developed countries. In most cases, these are autonomous, maximally closed structures, with their own financing, high status and separate logistics support, having aviation and special weapons. Special operations forces are used, as a rule, in local military conflicts, when the use of large military contingents is considered

premature, but a quick and effective impact on the enemy is necessary. Simply put, when the enemy needs to be intimidated. The expensive maintenance of special forces is justified by their use to counter the proliferation of weapons mass destruction, to combat terrorism and drug trafficking.

In this regard, it is no coincidence that The National Interest journalists compare the Russian Special Operations Forces with the elite American unit Delta Force, whose troops are deployed around the world at US military bases, both external and internal, and in as soon as possible ready to begin the next secret mission in any region. The Americans practically do not limit the use of their special forces - among their tasks, for example, protecting against attacks on US citizens in other countries, evacuating embassies, as well as conducting operations to destroy militant leaders, infrastructure or weapons, and leaders of other countries. In particular, it was the Delta squad that was credited with carrying out the operation to kill Osama bin Laden.

Alexander Perendzhiev, expert at the Association of Military Political Scientists:

– The publication of an American publication about Russian SOF is rather an attempt to provoke a public discussion in Russia and, with its help, cause some leaks about the capabilities of this structure. That is, this is a kind of information intelligence. In order to obtain information, the bait is thrown in the form of flattery towards new Russian troops so that they open up and talk more about their achievements. Apparently, the Americans realized that a very powerful and effective structure had been created. The leadership of the Armed Forces will play its own game in this situation. The Russian Ministry of Defense will try to find out what is known about these forces, and most likely information about the capabilities and activities of the Special Forces will be kept as secret as possible. These forces are designed to act covertly and unexpectedly, which is precisely what makes them strong point, their trump card. Even if we recall the operation in Crimea in 2014, initially none of senior management- neither the Minister of Defense nor the President recognized that these were representatives of the Russian Armed Forces.

In Chechnya, the Center's fighters searched for and captured enemy bases, eliminated particularly important targets and carried out other equally important tasks. The “sunflowers” ​​closely interacted with the fighters of the Alpha and Vympel groups of the Special Forces Center of the FSB of Russia, as well as special forces of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Internal Troops.

2000s

Soon, in addition to paratroopers and special forces, Senezh began to select officers and warrant officers, infantrymen, anti-aircraft gunners, signalmen and even military personnel from units and divisions of chemical-biological defense and electronic warfare. Several times a year, the Center’s “buyers” visited military units and selected best fighters. After that, they were sent to Solnechnogorsk, where complex selection tests were carried out.

The Center deployed four areas of special operations. Airborne soldiers practiced parachute jumps, including high-altitude long jumps, when paratroopers open parachutes several hundred meters from the ground. “Sunflower” paratroopers also mastered another variant of high-altitude jump. The fighter opens the canopy immediately after leaving the plane. Thanks to this method of landing, a special forces soldier can fly several tens of kilometers. And at the same time remain unnoticed by the enemy.

"Sunflowers" jump day and night, with and without night vision devices, in bad weather, strong wind and rain.

The assault direction practiced the capture and destruction of both strategically important enemy objects and ordinary buildings, vehicles and man-made buildings. Also, “sunflower” stormtroopers are trained to free hostages.

Mountain fighters conduct reconnaissance and destroy the enemy high in the mountains. On snowy passes and slopes, on mountain tops and in gorges.

The maritime department is responsible for fighting in water and under water. The department includes not only combat swimmers trained to conduct coastal reconnaissance, blow up ships and commit sabotage in ports, but also special boat units. "Katerniks" are carried out in coastal waters, rivers and lakes, quick sabotage raids drop reconnaissance groups behind enemy lines.

In the mid-2000s, a fifth direction also appeared at the Center. Its fighters are responsible for protecting high-ranking military personnel: the chief of the general staff, deputy ministers of defense and other equally high-ranking officials in the combat zone.

The material and technical base of the Center was also actively expanding. New training facilities appeared, mountain “sunflowers” ​​began to constantly undergo training at a specialized mountain center in the village of Tersky in the Elbrus region.

Gradually, a system of combat use of special operations units emerged. Depending on the task, consolidated detachments are created within the Center, to which groups from each direction are allocated. For example, if you need to operate in the mountains, then you need more mountain “sunflowers”, but fewer paratroopers and sailors.

According to some reports, Senezh fighters, in addition to the counter-terrorist operation in Chechnya, took active participation in the fight against piracy in the Gulf of Aden, in exercises in the CIS countries, as well as in the August 2008 conflict with Georgia.

"New Look"

Meanwhile, while expanding the capabilities of Senezh, the command of the Center and the leadership of the Main Intelligence Directorate encountered certain difficulties. In particular, the head of the GRU did not have the resources to quickly deploy troops from the center in case of emergency. It is necessary to contact the Chief of the General Staff with a request for the allocation of aircraft or helicopters. And the National General Staff will give instructions to the command Air Force. Therefore it was necessary to develop new system combat control.

It was at this time that Anatoly Serdyukov took over the post of Minister of Defense of Russia. As you know, the Russian military department has an extremely negative attitude towards Serdyukov’s activities. But the Special Operations Forces believe that the ex-minister has done quite a lot for their formation and development.

Anatoly Serdyukov’s first decision was to reassign Senezh personally to the Chief of the General Staff. This made it possible to quickly resolve all organizational issues. From that moment on, “Senezh” changed its name from the “Specialist Training Center” to the “Special Operations Center of the Ministry of Defense.”

Serdyukov visited Solnechnogorsk several times, talked with the “sunflowers”, asked about their needs and requirements. In the interests of the Center, a squadron of Il-76 military transport aircraft was allocated, which was permanently based in Tver. Also operating in the interests of Senezh was a helicopter squadron from the 344th Combat Use Center of the Army Aviation.

One of the controversial issues is whether Senezh was affected by the personnel reduction announced by the ex-Minister of Defense. If you check the databases of court decisions, you can easily find numerous claims from former servicemen of the Center to the command for wrongful dismissal from military service, as well as job cuts. So despite good attitude Serdyukov to Senezh, the center fell under a general wave of layoffs. Although, there is an opinion that such a “cleansing” had only positive consequences. TsSN managed to re-certify and select the best.

"Zaborie"

Further development Russian forces special operations is connected with a rather extraordinary officer - the former head of the FSB Special Purpose Center, Lieutenant General Alexander Miroshnichenko. Miroshnichenko was appointed to the post of Deputy Minister of Defense and began reforming special forces units of the Russian military department.

It was the former head of the FSB TsSN and ex-commanders of the Alpha group who came up with a proposal to expand the capabilities of Russian special operations forces by creating a second Center. The place of his deployment was the village of Kubinka near Moscow. In combat training, the new military unit was supposed to focus primarily on the Alpha experience. According to some reports, Alpha officers who moved from the FSB to the Ministry of Defense took an active part in the formation of the new Center.