Special Operations Forces Day is an annual celebration observed by the Russian Federation’s Armed Forces on February 27. President Vladimir Putin established it in 2015. Special Operations Forces, also known as Special Forces, are military units that carry out unconventional missions both within and outside of the country. Special Operations Forces, in their modern form, first appeared in the early twentieth century. Many countries nowadays have special forces as part of their armed forces.
History of Special Operations Forces Day
The special operations forces (SOF) of the Russian Federation are tactical special forces that report to the Special Operations Forces Authority of the Russian Federation’s General Staff. It is also a systemic and independent Armed Forces unit. As part of the ongoing 2008 Russian military reform, the first units of what became the Special Operations Forces were transferred from the GRU in 2009. Always prepared for combat, they perform specific tasks and can function both within the country and abroad, in peacetime and wartime.
The Special Operations Forces Authority was founded in 2012 and declared by Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov in March 2013. The SOF was created as a strategic-level asset, with elite special operations, primarily international interventions such as counter-proliferation, international internal defense operations, and undertaking the most complex special operations and clandestine missions to protect the Russian Federation’s objectives.
The SOF differs from the Spetsnaz GRU, which was under the Primary Intelligence Directorate until 2010, and whose subsequent subordination was unclear until 2013, when the choice was overturned and GRU special forces units were reassigned to GRU divisions and placed under GRU authority once more. Russia’s S.O.F. is entirely staffed by contract personnel, all of whom are full-time servicemen comprised of senior officers and regular soldiers.
According to multiple Russian official news agencies, albeit unofficially, President Vladimir Putin declared February 27 to be Special Operations Forces Day on February 26, 2015, to commemorate the formation of Russian control over the Supreme Council of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea building in Simferopol, Crimea on February 27, 2014.
Special Operations Forces Day timeline
The Special Operations Directorate is established, reporting directly to the Chief of the General Staff.
General Valery Gerasimov approved the establishment of the Special Operations Forces on March 6.
During Russia's hosting of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the S.O.F. and F.S.B. Special Forces Units are put in charge of security.
On December 11, S.O.F. units provide full security for Russian President Vladimir Putin's surprise visit to Syria at Khmeimim Air Base by concealing the most dangerous paths from the sea, air, and land.
The Special Operations Directorate is reorganized as the Special Operations Command, and plans are made to increase the Forces' manpower to nine special-purpose brigades.
Special Operations Forces Day FAQs
What is the most elite special forces unit?
The most highly trained elite forces in the United States military are SEAL Team 6, officially known as the United States Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU), and Delta Force, previously known as 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta.
What exactly is the Russian S.S.O.?
S.S.O. (special operations forces) are tactical special forces under the Special Operations Forces Command of the General Staff of the Russian Federation.
Is special operations synonymous with special forces?
Despite popular belief, these two terms are not indistinguishable. Special Operations Forces encompass all units under the United States Special Operations Command, including Special Forces, also known as the Army’s Green Berets.
How to Observe Special Operations Forces Day
Watch a patriotic film or television show
People interested in learning about a country's history and achievements can find both education and entertainment in political films and television shows. You can learn a lot about Russia's history and armed forces by watching a patriotic television show.
Share on social media
Commemorate Russia's special holiday on social platforms. Share your posts with your friends and family who are celebrating.
Remember those who have passed away
Take a moment to remember Russia's fallen soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Donate to organizations that help the families of Russia's fallen soldiers.
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Why Special Operations Forces Day is Important
It's a celebration of the armed forces
Special forces and their services are crucial. These forces assist and protect us when we are threatened by terrorists, enemies, or natural disasters.
The special forces deserve our admiration
Joining the armed forces is a tremendously selfless act that deserves to be recognized. Every single day, soldiers and most military personnel put their lives in danger to keep us safe.
It promotes awareness
Special Operations Forces Day allows you to enlighten yourself or others. Originally, the holiday was intended to help citizens understand the military and its role in our society.
Special Operations Forces Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 27 | Thursday |
| 2026 | February 27 | Friday |
| 2027 | February 27 | Saturday |
| 2028 | February 27 | Sunday |
| 2029 | February 27 | Tuesday |
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