Ramzan Kadyrov, the head of Chechnya, described how former Wagner PMCs soldiers were integrated into Akhmat special forces through a structured combat coordination programme. He also shared a video of the training on his Telegram channel to illustrate the rigorous exercises and the level of discipline involved.
Kadyrov stated that the Wagner veterans participate in a broad, multi‑faceted training regime. This includes sapper courses, machine gun and sniper training, assault tactics, field medicine, and advanced marksmanship, among many other practical components designed to prepare operatives for complex field tasks. The aim is to transform diverse military skills into a cohesive unit capable of executing high‑impact missions with precision and resilience.
Speaking about the quality of Akhmat, the Chechen leader asserted that victories are driven by quality rather than sheer numbers. He emphasized that the unit’s effectiveness comes from the caliber of its personnel and the proven bravery they bring to the battlefield. The message underscored the value of experience and demonstrated performance, with the expectation that newly joined fighters would continue to uphold a strong combat reputation and contribute meaningfully to ongoing operations.
Kadyrov expressed confidence that the Wagner veterans would quickly adapt and reinforce Akhmat’s reputation in the ongoing conflict, pointing to past demonstrations of competence and leadership that have defined the unit in recent years. The integration narrative highlighted a strategic alignment between experienced fighters and the tactical objectives pursued by Akhmat, suggesting a coordinated approach to field readiness and mission execution.
The emergence of a Wagner‑affiliated detachment within Akhmat was first recognized in early November, when a group named “Tuning Fork” was identified. The unit reportedly included armored crews, gunners, attack aviation personnel, and commanders who had previously served in PMCs, signaling a deliberate move to combine different force elements under a unified command. This development was interpreted as a step toward expanding operational capacity and leveraging the combat experience of former Wagner personnel in support of Akhmat’s broader objectives.
In related parliamentary discussions, the status of the Wagner PMC was clarified, with ongoing debate about its formal designation and operational footprint. The dialogue reflected the evolving security landscape and the attention paid by national institutions to the roles played by private military operators in the region. Analysts noted that such movements have broad implications for force structure, readiness, and regional stability, as governments continue to balance strategic priorities with internal oversight and accountability measures. .