Belarus has long responded to NATO exercises near its borders with measures that demonstrate readiness, pulling troops to training grounds to show preparedness for potential threats. The second phase of the immediate control of troops, announced by Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin, ties to the NATO Defense of Europe-2022 maneuvers, which involved about 18,000 personnel from alliance members, including the United States. The aim was to reinforce battalion-tactical groups with air defense, missile forces, and artillery to ensure rapid combat operations in the region.
Concurrently, Belarus positioned what it terms Special Operations Forces along its border with Ukraine, spanning roughly 1084 kilometers. The goal, as stated by the Chief of the General Staff, Viktor Gulevich, was to safeguard the southern direction and security of the Republic. Special Operations Forces units were deployed in three strategic directions to strengthen border security and rapid response capabilities.
The core components of Belarusian Special Operations Forces include highly capable formations such as the 38th separate airborne assault brigade in Brest, the 103rd separate airborne brigade in Vitebsk, and the 5th separate special-purpose brigade located in Maryina Gorka, Minsk region. These units anchor a broader combat framework that includes a field communications center and units tasked with highly sensitive operations.
Observations from retired military leadership describe the Special Operations Forces as exceptionally potent. Colonel General Georgy Shpak, formerly a commander in the Air Force, stated that these forces draw strength from airborne traditions carried over from the Soviet era and benefit from cooperative exercises under the Union State framework. He noted their capacity for both targeted special missions and integrated operations employing diverse equipment in a coordinated manner.
Shpak added that Belarus analyzed the Russian experience of the operation in Ukraine and adapted its approaches accordingly, incorporating lessons into planning and execution. A primary takeaway highlighted is the need for a swift, heavy-action response with rapid deployment of tanks and artillery, supported by air power. He pointed out that Russian air support has demonstrated effective use of these tactics, and Belarusian forces have embraced similar methods, with simultaneous distribution and mobilization of assets on the battlefield.
At the same time, the former air force commander suggested that the deployment aims to deter provocations from Kyiv rather than to initiate aggression, emphasizing defensive intent and regional stability rather than offensive aims.
Overall, the Special Operations Forces number over 6,000 personnel and are equipped with a range of modern assets, including Russian-made armored vehicles such as the Tiger, Bogatyr, and Caiman, along with BTR-80A chassis. MTR brigades also feature their own artillery battalions and anti-aircraft missiles. For airlift, several transport aircraft including Il-76s, supplemented by four An-26s and Mi-8 family helicopters, provide mobility and rapid response capabilities. A total of about 20 aircraft are listed for operations, including newer Mi-8MTB variants.
Experts suggest that in any conflict, the first impact must be withstood. Belarusian forces have the capacity to repel many threats independently, yet analysts warn that full NATO strength, particularly with U.S. support, could challenge defense capabilities. Consequently, many observers believe cooperation with Russia remains pivotal to maintaining resilience under potential pressure, even as highly capable units continue to deter aggression and safeguard the border region.
Belarus maintains a relatively modest standing force, with roughly 10,000 active military personnel and more than 70,000 reserve personnel, including contracted staff and officers. The military posture emphasizes defense-oriented strategy, while the reserve structure is designed to mobilize quickly, potentially reaching into the hundreds of thousands of trained personnel in a crisis. Inventory estimates include around 1,600 tanks, with a portion in active use and the remainder in storage, as well as thousands of armored vehicles and artillery systems. Observers note Minsk has developed a mobilization framework that could respond rapidly to crisis conditions, supported by experienced military analysts and defense experts who weigh potential scenarios and regional security needs now more than ever.