A ceremonial event was held on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the formation of the Operational-Combat Unit of the National Security Service of the Republic of Armenia. The event was attended by the Director of the National Security Service of the Republic of Armenia, Deputy Directors, heads of structural subdivisions, former commanders and officers of the Operational-Combat Unit, as well as veterans.

Welcoming the servicemen of the Operational-Combat Unit standing in ceremonial formation, Director of the National Security Service of the Republic of Armenia, Major General Andranik Simonyan, expressed his gratitude for their dedicated service to the Republic of Armenia, their excellent performance in carrying out assigned tasks, their skilled and professional execution of their duties, and, in particular, their exemplary conduct.

Referring to the challenging path covered by the unit’s personnel over the course of three decades and to the history of the unit, which has overcome various challenges and carried out special assignments, the Director of the National Security Service noted that serving in the Operational-Combat Unit has always been an honorable duty. He emphasized that, in addition to a high level of professional preparedness, such service requires courage, strict discipline, a healthy moral and psychological environment, special physical and psychological abilities, strong willpower, and professionalism.

The Director of the National Security Service highly appreciated the unit’s efforts over the years to develop its extensive professional experience and bring it in line with modern requirements. He emphasized the importance of ongoing work aimed at acquiring and applying modern weapons and technical equipment, particularly highlighting the support of the Government of the Republic of Armenia in fully ensuring the technical equipment of the National Security Service. At the same time, he stressed the importance of the targeted use of weapons and technical equipment and of resolving assigned tasks flawlessly and safely.

Alongside the achievements, the Director of the National Security Service also emphasized the need for continuous and consistent efforts to address possible shortcomings and deficiencies, as well as the importance of properly and promptly addressing current challenges. He noted that analysis of cause-and-effect relationships would contribute to the effective achievement of future objectives and help prevent potential negative developments.

During the event, servicemen of the Operational-Combat Unit demonstrated tactical exercises involving the neutralization of suspected terrorists, the release of hostages, and the apprehension of armed criminals, using physical skills, psychological influence techniques, and special equipment and means.

At the conclusion of the ceremonial event, the Director of the National Security Service presented departmental awards to former commanders of the Operational-Combat Unit, veterans, and a number of officers and servicemen, including a commemorative medal dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the Operational-Combat Unit.