Special Operations Regiment (Albania): Difference between revisions
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{{More citations needed|date=April 2017}} |
{{More citations needed|date=April 2017}} |
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{{Infobox military unit |
{{Infobox military unit |
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| unit_name = Special Operations |
| unit_name = Special Operations Regiment |
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| native_name = |
| native_name = Regjimenti i Operacioneve Speciale<ref name="10than">{{cite press release|title=Regjimenti i Operacioneve Speciale, elita e FA, feston 10-vjetorin e krijimit të tij|url=http://www.aaf.mil.al/index.php/arkivi/tetor-2008/1324-batalioni-i-operacioneve-speciale-elita-e-fa-feston-10-vjetorin-e-krijimit-te-tij|website=Albanian Armed Forces|accessdate=14 September 2017|language=Albanian|date=21 October 2008}}</ref> |
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| image = Forcat Speciale Shqiptare.svg |
| image = Forcat Speciale Shqiptare.svg |
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| image_size = 180px |
| image_size = 180px |
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| alt = |
| alt = |
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| caption = Special Operations |
| caption = Special Operations Regiment insignia |
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| dates = 16 October 1998 – Present<ref name="US Army">{{cite web|last1=Aguila|first1=1st Lt. Veronica|title=From the beginning: learning to give everything|url=https://www.army.mil/article/92196|website=U.S. Army|accessdate=14 September 2017|date=2 December 2012}}</ref> |
| dates = 16 October 1998 – Present<ref name="US Army">{{cite web|last1=Aguila|first1=1st Lt. Veronica|title=From the beginning: learning to give everything|url=https://www.army.mil/article/92196|website=U.S. Army|accessdate=14 September 2017|date=2 December 2012}}</ref> |
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| disbanded = |
| disbanded = |
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| country = {{flagicon|Albania}} [[Albania]] |
| country = {{flagicon|Albania}} [[Albania]] |
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| allegiance = |
| allegiance = |
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| branch = [[Albanian Armed Forces]] |
| branch = [[Albanian Armed Forces]] |
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| type = [[Special |
| type = [[Special forces]] |
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| role = [[Special operations]]<br />[[Counter-terrorism]]<br />[[Close-quarters combat]]<br />[[Urban warfare]] |
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| role = |
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| nickname = ''The Unit'' |
| nickname = ''The Unit'' |
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| patron = |
| patron = |
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| motto = We better die for something than live for nothing<ref name="US Army" /> |
| motto = We better die for something than live for nothing<ref name="US Army" /> |
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| colors = Maroon |
| colors = <br /><br />{{legend2|#800000|[[Maroon beret|Maroon]]|border=1px solid #AAAAAA}} |
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| colors_label |
| colors_label = <br /><br />Colour of Beret |
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| march = |
| march = |
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| mascot = |
| mascot = |
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| anniversaries = |
| anniversaries = |
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| equipment = |
| equipment = |
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| equipment_label = |
| equipment_label = |
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| battles = [[Kosovo War]]<br />[[Operation Iraqi Freedom]]<br />[[Operation Enduring Freedom]] |
| battles = [[Kosovo War]]<br />[[Operation Iraqi Freedom]]<br />[[Operation Enduring Freedom]]<br />[[Resolute Support Mission]] |
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<br />[[Kosovo Force]] |
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| decorations = |
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| |
| decorations = |
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| battle_honours = |
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| battle_honours_label = |
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| |
| battle_honours_label = |
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| |
| flying_hours = |
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<!-- Commanders --> |
| website = <!-- Commanders --> |
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| current_commander = [[ |
| current_commander = [[Colonel]] Ajet Jata |
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| commander1 = |
| commander1 = |
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| commander1_label = |
| commander1_label = |
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| commander2 = |
| commander2 = |
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| commander2_label = |
| commander2_label = |
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| commander3 = |
| commander3 = |
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| commander3_label = |
| commander3_label = |
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| commander4 = |
| commander4 = |
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| commander4_label = |
| commander4_label = |
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| commander5 = |
| commander5 = |
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| commander5_label = |
| commander5_label = |
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| commander6 = |
| commander6 = |
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| commander6_label = |
| commander6_label = |
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| commander7 = |
| commander7 = |
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| commander7_label = |
| commander7_label = |
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| commander8 = |
| commander8 = |
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| commander8_label = |
| commander8_label = |
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| commander9 = |
| commander9 = |
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| commander9_label = |
| commander9_label = |
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| notable_commanders = |
| notable_commanders = <!-- Insignia --> |
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| identification_symbol = [[File:Albanian special forces insignia.svg|180px]] |
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<!-- Insignia --> |
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| identification_symbol_label = Right shoulder patch |
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| identification_symbol = [[File:Albanian special forces insignia.svg|40px]] |
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| identification_symbol_2 = |
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| identification_symbol_label = Right shoulder patch |
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| identification_symbol_2_label = |
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| identification_symbol_2 = |
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| identification_symbol_3 = |
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| identification_symbol_2_label = |
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| identification_symbol_3_label = |
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| identification_symbol_3 = |
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| identification_symbol_4 = |
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| identification_symbol_3_label = |
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| identification_symbol_4_label = |
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| identification_symbol_4 = |
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| identification_symbol_5 = |
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| identification_symbol_4_label = |
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| identification_symbol_5_label = <!-- Aircraft --> |
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| identification_symbol_5 = |
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| aircraft_attack = |
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| identification_symbol_5_label = |
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| aircraft_bomber = |
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<!-- Aircraft --> |
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| aircraft_electronic = |
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| aircraft_attack = |
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| aircraft_fighter = |
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| aircraft_bomber = |
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| aircraft_helicopter = |
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| aircraft_electronic = |
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| aircraft_helicopter_attack = |
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| aircraft_fighter = |
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| aircraft_helicopter_cargo = |
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| aircraft_helicopter = |
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| aircraft_helicopter_multirole = |
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| aircraft_helicopter_attack = |
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| aircraft_helicopter_observation = |
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| aircraft_helicopter_cargo = |
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| aircraft_helicopter_transport = |
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| aircraft_helicopter_multirole = |
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| aircraft_helicopter_trainer = |
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| aircraft_helicopter_observation = |
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| aircraft_helicopter_utility = |
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| aircraft_helicopter_transport = |
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| aircraft_interceptor = |
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| aircraft_helicopter_trainer = |
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| aircraft_patrol = |
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| aircraft_helicopter_utility = |
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| aircraft_recon = |
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| aircraft_interceptor = |
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| aircraft_trainer = |
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| aircraft_patrol = |
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| aircraft_transport = |
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| aircraft_recon = |
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| aircraft_tanker = |
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| aircraft_trainer = |
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| aircraft_general = |
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| aircraft_transport = |
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| aircraft_tanker = |
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| aircraft_general = |
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}} |
}} |
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The '''Special Operations |
The '''Special Operations Regiment''' ({{langx|sq|Regjimenti i Operacioneve Speciale}}),<ref name="10than" /> commonly known as '''B.O.S''' is the main [[special forces]] unit of the Albanian Armed Forces. It is the most elite unit of the [[Albanian Army]]. The unit is tasked with special operations in wartime, and primarily with counter-terrorism in peacetime. |
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The BOS members can be recognized by their maroon berets, and the unit insignia which is carried on the right sleeve of their uniforms. |
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== History == |
== History == |
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The Special Operations Battalion was created in 1998 as a direct answer to the region's geopolitical situation. Shortly after their creation, teams of BOS operators were deployed along the Albanian-Yugoslav border during the [[Kosovo War]] in 1999 and later along the Albanian-Macedonian border during that country's war in 2001. During these two conflicts, BOS' main tasks were reconnaissance and long-range patrol. In 2002, BOS operators were deployed in Afghanistan as part of [[Operation Enduring Freedom]]. In Afghanistan, the first contingents operated under Turkish command and their tasks mainly dealt with patrolling the areas around Kabul. In 2004, Albania sent a unit from the Special Operations Battalion to Mosul as part of [[Operation Iraqi Freedom]]. The unit together with other units from the Commando Regiment were responsible for base security and perimeter defense. In July 2010, a detachment of 44 men (codenamed EAGLE 1) from the S.O.B led by Colonel Dritan Demiraj was deployed to [[Kandahar]], Afghanistan. Differing from previous Albanian deployments, this detachment was directly involved in combat special operations. |
The Special Operations Battalion was created in 1998 as a direct answer to the region's geopolitical situation. Shortly after their creation, teams of BOS operators were deployed along the Albanian-Yugoslav border during the [[Kosovo War]] in 1999 and later along the Albanian-Macedonian border during that country's war in 2001. During these two conflicts, BOS' main tasks were reconnaissance and long-range patrol. In 2002, BOS operators were deployed in Afghanistan as part of [[Operation Enduring Freedom]]. In Afghanistan, the first contingents operated under Turkish command and their tasks mainly dealt with patrolling the areas around Kabul. |
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[[File:Mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles assigned to the Albanian special operations forces provide security for coalition forces at an Afghan Border Police checkpoint near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border 130401-A-MX357-044.jpg|thumb|Albanian special operations forces provide security for coalition forces at an Afghan Border Police checkpoint.]] |
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In 2004, Albania sent a unit from the Special Operations Battalion to Mosul as part of [[Operation Iraqi Freedom]]. The unit together with other units from the Commando Regiment were responsible for base security and perimeter defense. In July 2010, a detachment of 44 men (codenamed EAGLE 1) from the S.O.B led by Colonel Dritan Demiraj was deployed to [[Kandahar]], Afghanistan. Differing from previous Albanian deployments, this detachment was directly involved in combat special operations. |
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[[File:An Albanian special operations forces soldier provides security as Afghan Border Police break ground on a checkpoint near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar province 130325-A-MX357-279.jpg|thumb|Albanian special operations forces soldier provides security as Afghan Border Police break ground on a checkpoint near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar province, Afghanistan, March 25, 2013.]] |
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The unit worked closely with US military intelligence and was responsible for deep reconnaissance behind Taliban lines, as well as intelligence collection on [[high-value targets]]. |
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== Recruitment, selection and training == |
== Recruitment, selection and training == |
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All members of the Albanian land forces can be considered for special forces training. After applying, the candidates go through a 26-weeks selection process. During the first 12 weeks, the candidates are forced to march cross country against the clock, with increasing distances covered each day, culminating with a 27 km running with full kit in mountainous terrain. This is called the Commando phase.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.revistamapo.com/lexo.php?id=2425|title=Lufta për Beretën Vishnje|website=Revista Mapo|language=albanian|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426005000/http://www.revistamapo.com/lexo.php?id=2425|archive-date=26 April 2012|url-status=dead|access-date=29 July 2012}}</ref> |
All members of the Albanian land forces can be considered for special forces training. After applying, the candidates go through a 26-weeks selection process. During the first 12 weeks, the candidates are forced to march cross country against the clock, with increasing distances covered each day, culminating with a 27 km running with full kit in mountainous terrain. This is called the Commando phase.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.revistamapo.com/lexo.php?id=2425|title=Lufta për Beretën Vishnje|website=Revista Mapo|language=albanian|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426005000/http://www.revistamapo.com/lexo.php?id=2425|archive-date=26 April 2012|url-status=dead|access-date=29 July 2012}}</ref> |
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In addition, the candidates have to go through marksmanship, navigation and physical endurance tests. During the last week of the selection process, the tests and marches go on for more than 24 hours without stopping. The candidates that are able to pass the selection process, then go through a 14-week-long training process in which they learn survival skills and master their shooting techniques. After that they undergo 4 weeks special operations and CQB course. |
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==Commanders of note== |
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*Colonel Dritan Demiraj, Ph. D SOF Commander 2007-2013 (7 Years). He is the most awarded officer in AAF. He is awarded among other medals the Presidential "Medal of Honor" 2014, Presidential "Golden Eagle Medal" 2011. Presidential Medal "Grand Master of Sports" 2018, Medal as "The best military officer of Albanian Armed Forces on 100 Anniversary of Albanian State, November 28, 2012, Minister of Interior of Albania in 2017. He works as Professor of National Security in USA. |
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[[File:An Albanian special operations forces soldier provides security as Afghan Border Police break ground on a checkpoint near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar province 130325-A-MX357-279.jpg|thumb|Albanian special operations forces soldier provides security as Afghan Border Police break ground on a checkpoint near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar province, Afghanistan, March 25, 2013.]] |
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[[File:Mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles assigned to the Albanian special operations forces provide security for coalition forces at an Afghan Border Police checkpoint near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border 130401-A-MX357-044.jpg|thumb|Albanian special operations forces provide security for coalition forces at an Afghan Border Police checkpoint.]] |
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For the final test, the candidates are left without food for 72 hours in a remote area of the country; their objective is to evade any possible pursuer and return to base undetected. |
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==Equipment== |
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==Commanders of note== |
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*'''Pistol and Submachine guns''' |
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*Colonel Dritan Demiraj, Commander 2007-2013 (7 Years). He is the most awarded officer in AAF. He is awarded among other medals the Presidential "Medal of Honor" 2014, Presidential "Golden Eagle Medal" 2011. Presidential Medal "Grand Master of Sports" 2018, Medal as "The best military officer of Albanian Armed Forces on 100 Anniversary of Albanian State, November 28, 2012, Minister of Interior of Albania in 2017. |
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{| border=1 style="border-collapse: |
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[[File:Albanian Special Forces.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Members of Albanian Special Operation Regiment at parade led by Colonel Dritan Demiraj]] |
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|- bgcolor=ccccc |
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== Equipment == |
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!Model!!Image!!Caliber!!Origin!!Note |
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{| class="wikitable" style="width:550px;" |
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|- |
|- |
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| colspan="2" style="text-align:center; background:maroon;"|<span style="color:white;">'''Maroon Berets'''</span> |
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| [[Beretta Px4 Storm]] || [[File:PX4Storm.jpg|100px]] || [[9×19mm]] || {{ITA}} || |
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| |
|} |
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| [[FN Five-seven]] || [[File:FN5704.jpg|100px]] || [[FN 5.7×28mm|5.7×28mm]] || {{BEL}} || |
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===Weapons=== |
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|- |
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{| class="wikitable" style="border:1px solid #8888aa; padding:5px; font-size:100%; margin:0 12px 12px 0; width:100%;" |
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| [[Heckler & Koch USP|P12 Pistol]] || [[File:HKUSP.png|100px]] || [[.45 ACP]] || {{GER}} || |
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! colspan="4" |Pistols |
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|- |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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| [[Beretta 92]] || [[File:Beretta 92 FS.gif|100px]] || [[9mm Luger|9×19mm]] || {{ITA}} || |
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!Model |
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|- |
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!Image |
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|[[HK MP7]] || [[File:Heckler & Koch MP7A1.jpg|100px]] || [[HK 4.6×30mm]] || {{GER}} || |
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!Caliber |
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|- |
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!Country |
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|[[HK UMP]] || [[File:HKUMP45.JPG|100px]] || [[.45 ACP]] || {{GER}} || |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|- |
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|[[Beretta Px4 Storm]] |
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|[[Heckler & Koch SR9]] || [[File:HK SR9T Rifle.jpg|100px]] || [[7.62×51mm]] || {{GER}} || |
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|[[File:PX4Storm.jpg|210px]] |
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|- |
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|[[9×19mm]] |
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|[[Heckler & Koch G36]] || [[File:G36 Select-Fire Carbine.JPEG|100px]] || [[5.56×45mm]] || {{GER}} || |
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|{{ITA}} |
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|- |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[MKE MPT]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://raillynews.com/2020/04/turkey-arnavutluka-mpTrim-had-76-and-55-grants-mpTrim/|access-date=2020-06-08|website=raillynews.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=ŞAHİN|first=ANIL|date=2020-04-26|title=Türkiye Arnavutluk'a MPT-76 ve MPT-55 hibe etti|url=https://www.savunmasanayist.com/arnavutluk-mpt76-mpt55/|access-date=2020-06-08|website=SavunmaSanayiST|language=Turkish}}</ref> |
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|[[FN Five-seveN|FN Five-seven]] |
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|[[File:MPT-76 Assault Rifle.jpg|100x100px]] |
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|[[File:FN5704.jpg|210px]] |
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|[[5.7×28mm]] |
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|{{BEL}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Glock 19]] |
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|[[File:Glock_19_Generation_4-removebg.png|210px]] |
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|[[9x19mm]] |
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|{{AUT}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Heckler & Koch USP]] |
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|[[File:HKUSP.png|210px]] |
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|[[.45 ACP]] |
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|{{DEU}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Beretta 92]] <hr> Yavuz 16 |
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|[[File:Beretta_92_FS.gif|210px]] |
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|[[9×19mm]] |
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|{{ITA}} <hr> {{TUR}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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! colspan="4" |Submachineguns |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Heckler & Koch MP5|HK MP5]] <hr> [[Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation|MKEK]] MP5 |
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|[[File:Heckler_%26_Koch_MP5-1.jpg|210px]] |
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|[[9x19mm]] |
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|{{FRG}} <hr> {{TUR}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Heckler & Koch MP7|HK MP7]] |
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|[[File:Heckler & Koch MP7A1.png|210px]] |
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|[[HK 4.6×30mm]] |
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|{{GER}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Heckler & Koch UMP|HK UMP]] |
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|[[File:HKUMP45.JPG|210px]] |
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|[[.45 ACP]] |
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|{{GER}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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! colspan="4" |Assault rifles and Carbines |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Heckler & Koch G36]] |
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||[[File:Gewehr_G36_noBG.png|210px]] |
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|[[5.56×45mm]] |
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|{{GER}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Heckler & Koch HK416]] |
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|[[File:HK416N.png|210px]] |
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|[[5.56×45mm]] |
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|{{GER}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Beretta ARX 160]] |
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|[[File:Beretta_AR_with_thermal_sight_and_grenade_launcher.jpg|210px]] |
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|[[5.56×45mm]] |
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|{{ITA}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[AKM (Assault Rifle)|AKM]] |
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|[[File:AKM_automatkarbin,_Ryssland_-_7,62x39mm_-_Armémuseum.jpg|210px]] |
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|[[7.62×39mm]] |
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|{{USSR}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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! colspan="4" |Machine guns |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Rheinmetall MG3]] |
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|[[File:BundeswehrMG3_noBG.png|210px]] |
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|[[7.62x51mm]] |
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|{{GER}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Heckler & Koch MG4]] |
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|[[File:HK_MG4_01.jpg|210px]] |
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|[[5.56×45mm]] |
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|{{GER}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Heckler & Koch MG5]] |
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|[[File:Heckler & Koch MG5.jpg|210px]] |
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|[[7.62×51mm NATO|7.62×51mm]] |
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|{{GER}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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! colspan="4" |Shotguns |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Benelli M4|Benelli M4 Super 90]] |
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|[[File:Benelli m4 2.jpg|border|210px]] |
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|[[12-gauge]] |
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|{{ITA}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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! colspan="4" |Sniper Rifles. Designated Marksman Rifles and Anti Materiel rifles |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Heckler & Koch HK417]] |
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|[[File:Combater_G27_noBG.png|210px]] |
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|[[7.62×51mm]] |
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|{{GER}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Sako TRG]] |
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|[[File:Sako_TRG_folding_stock_+_Zeiss_3-12x56_SSG_P.JPG|210px]] |
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|[[.308 Winchester]] |
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|{{FIN}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Barrett M82]] |
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|[[File:Barrett-M82A1-Independence-Day-2017-IZE-048-white.jpg|210px]] |
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|[[12,7 × 99 mm NATO|.50 BMG]] |
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|{{USA}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Heckler & Koch SR9]] |
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|[[File:HK_SR9T_Rifle.jpg|210px]] |
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|[[7.62×51mm]] |
|[[7.62×51mm]] |
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|{{ |
|{{GER}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Heckler & Koch PSG1]] |
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|[[File:PSG-1_rifle_2014_noBG.jpg|210px]] |
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|[[7.62×51mm]] |
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|{{GER}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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! colspan="4" |Anti tank Systems |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[AT4]] |
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| |
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|84mm |
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|{{SWE}} <hr/> {{USA}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[RPG-7]] |
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|[[File:RPG-7_detached.jpg|210px]] |
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|[[40 mm Grenade]] |
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|{{USSR}} |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[BGM-71 TOW]] |
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|[[File:Hires_090509-A-4842R-001a.jpg|210px]] |
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|150mm |
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|{{USA}} |
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|} |
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===Vehicles=== |
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{| class="wikitable" |
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|+ |
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! colspan="5" |Land Vehicles |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|Model |
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|Image |
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|Country |
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|Quantity |
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|Note |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|[[Land Rover Defender]] |
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|[[File:Land Rover Defender front 20070518.jpg|210px]] |
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|{{GBR}} |
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|N/A |
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| |
| |
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|- style="text-align:center;" |
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|- |
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|[[Humvee]] |
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|[[Beretta ARX 160]] || [[File:Beretta AR with thermal sight and grenade launcher.jpg|100px]] || [[5.56×45mm]] || {{ITA}} ||standard issued weapon for the [[Albanian Land Force]] |
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|[[File:Humvee of Doom.jpg|210px]] |
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|- |
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|{{USA}} |
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|[[Heckler & Koch HK416]]|| || [[5.56×45mm NATO|5.56×45mm]]|| [[Germany]] ||Used by the [[Special Operations Battalion (Albania)|Special Operations Battalion]] in limited quantity |
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| |
|N/A |
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|Used in [[Iraq]] And [[Afghanistan]] |
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|[[Heckler & Koch MG4]] || [[File:HK MG4 01.jpg|100px]] || [[5.56×45mm]] || {{GER}} || |
|||
|- style="text-align:center;" |
|||
|- |
|||
|[[International MaxxPro]] |
|||
|[[Heckler & Koch HK417]] || [[File:Heckler&Koch HK MR308 linke Seite.jpg|100px]] || [[7.62×51mm]] || {{GER}} || |
|||
|[[File:International MaxxPro.jpg|210px]] |
|||
|- |
|||
|{{USA}} |
|||
|[[Sako TRG]] || [[File:Sako TRG folding stock + Zeiss 3-12x56 SSG P.JPG|100px]] || [[.308 Winchester]] || {{FIN}} || |
|||
| |
|40 |
||
|Used by Eagle-2-8 at [[Kandahar]] |
|||
|[[Barrett M82]] || [[File:M82A1 barrett.jpeg|100px]] || [[.50 BMG]] || {{USA}} || |
|||
|- |
|||
|[[RPG-7]] || [[File:RPG-7 detached.jpg|100px]] || [[40 mm]] || {{USSR}} || |
|||
|} |
|} |
||
=== |
===Aircraft=== |
||
{| class="wikitable" |
|||
* [[Land Rover Defender]] |
|||
|+ |
|||
* [[Humvee]] used in Iraq and Afghanistan |
|||
! colspan="5" |Helicopters |
|||
* [[International MaxxPro]] used by Eagle-2-8 in Kandahar |
|||
|- style="text-align:center;" |
|||
|Model |
|||
'''Aircraft''' |
|||
|Image |
|||
* [[Bo 105]] utility helicopter |
|||
|Country |
|||
* [[Bell 205]] medium utility helicopter |
|||
|Quantity |
|||
* [[Eurocopter AS532 Cougar]] transport helicopter |
|||
|Note |
|||
|- style="text-align:center;" |
|||
|[[CH-47 Chinook]] |
|||
|[[File:CH-47_assigned_to_3rd_General_Support_Aviation_Battalion%2C_82nd_Combat_Aviation_Brigade.jpg|210px]] |
|||
|{{USA}} |
|||
|5 |
|||
|To be Delivered<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://youtube/VmymHcZz6Vs?si=JIshN3OQcE9sPIi8=youtu.be|title = Albania Bought The CH-47 Chinook. The helicopter Used In the Iraq and Kosovo wars|website = [[YouTube]]}}</ref> |
|||
|- style="text-align:center;" |
|||
|[[MBB Bo 105]] |
|||
|[[File:Alb BO-105.jpg|210px]] |
|||
|{{DEU}} |
|||
|6 |
|||
| |
|||
|- style="text-align:center;" |
|||
|[[Bell UH-1 Iroquois]] <hr> [[AB205]] |
|||
|[[File:AB 205 Training.jpg|210px]] |
|||
|{{USA}}<hr>{{ITA}} |
|||
|7 |
|||
|3 received in 2004, with a further 4 ordered for delivery through 2006<ref name="Das">{{cite web|url = http://www.dutchaviationsupport.com/Articles/Titana%20UK.pdf|title = ALBANIAN AIRFORCE - Tirana's moving steps |access-date = 2008-12-26|last = Das |first = Wim |first2=Kees |last2=Otten}}</ref> |
|||
|- style="text-align:center;" |
|||
|[[Eurocopter AS532 Cougar]] |
|||
|[[File:Cougar Helicopter of the Albanian Air Force.jpg|210px]] |
|||
|{{FRA}} |
|||
|2 |
|||
|<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.mod.gov.al/arkiv/eng/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2135&catid=327&Itemid=670|title=Arrival ceremony of the new Cougar helicopter for the Air Force, version "MEDEVAC"|last=Support|first=Web|website=Ministry of Defence|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-04-23}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aaf.mil.al/english/te-fundit/2509-the-fourth-cougar-as532-al-helicopter-arrives|title=The fourth Cougar AS532 AL helicopter arrives}}</ref> |
|||
|} |
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== References == |
== References == |
||
| Line 161: | Line 327: | ||
[[Category:Military units and formations of Albania| ]] |
[[Category:Military units and formations of Albania| ]] |
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[[Category:Special forces of Albania]] |
[[Category:Special forces of Albania]] |
||
[[Category:Military units and formations established in 1998]] |
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[[Category:Counterterrorist organizations]] |
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Latest revision as of 02:16, 17 November 2024
 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (April 2017) |
| Special Operations Regiment | |
|---|---|
| Regjimenti i Operacioneve Speciale[1] | |
 Special Operations Regiment insignia | |
| Active | 16 October 1998 – Present[2] |
| Country |  Albania |
| Branch | Albanian Armed Forces |
| Type | Special forces |
| Role | Special operations Counter-terrorism Close-quarters combat Urban warfare |
| Nickname(s) | The Unit |
| Motto(s) | We better die for something than live for nothing[2] |
Colour of Beret | Maroon |
| Engagements | Kosovo War Operation Iraqi Freedom Operation Enduring Freedom Resolute Support Mission Kosovo Force |
| Commanders | |
| Current commander | Colonel Ajet Jata |
| Insignia | |
| Right shoulder patch |  |
The Special Operations Regiment (Albanian: Regjimenti i Operacioneve Speciale),[1] commonly known as B.O.S is the main special forces unit of the Albanian Armed Forces. It is the most elite unit of the Albanian Army. The unit is tasked with special operations in wartime, and primarily with counter-terrorism in peacetime.
The BOS members can be recognized by their maroon berets, and the unit insignia which is carried on the right sleeve of their uniforms.
History
[edit]The Special Operations Battalion was created in 1998 as a direct answer to the region's geopolitical situation. Shortly after their creation, teams of BOS operators were deployed along the Albanian-Yugoslav border during the Kosovo War in 1999 and later along the Albanian-Macedonian border during that country's war in 2001. During these two conflicts, BOS' main tasks were reconnaissance and long-range patrol. In 2002, BOS operators were deployed in Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. In Afghanistan, the first contingents operated under Turkish command and their tasks mainly dealt with patrolling the areas around Kabul.
In 2004, Albania sent a unit from the Special Operations Battalion to Mosul as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The unit together with other units from the Commando Regiment were responsible for base security and perimeter defense. In July 2010, a detachment of 44 men (codenamed EAGLE 1) from the S.O.B led by Colonel Dritan Demiraj was deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan. Differing from previous Albanian deployments, this detachment was directly involved in combat special operations.
The unit worked closely with US military intelligence and was responsible for deep reconnaissance behind Taliban lines, as well as intelligence collection on high-value targets.
Recruitment, selection and training
[edit]All members of the Albanian land forces can be considered for special forces training. After applying, the candidates go through a 26-weeks selection process. During the first 12 weeks, the candidates are forced to march cross country against the clock, with increasing distances covered each day, culminating with a 27 km running with full kit in mountainous terrain. This is called the Commando phase.[3]
In addition, the candidates have to go through marksmanship, navigation and physical endurance tests. During the last week of the selection process, the tests and marches go on for more than 24 hours without stopping. The candidates that are able to pass the selection process, then go through a 14-week-long training process in which they learn survival skills and master their shooting techniques. After that they undergo 4 weeks special operations and CQB course.
For the final test, the candidates are left without food for 72 hours in a remote area of the country; their objective is to evade any possible pursuer and return to base undetected.
Commanders of note
[edit]- Colonel Dritan Demiraj, Commander 2007-2013 (7 Years). He is the most awarded officer in AAF. He is awarded among other medals the Presidential "Medal of Honor" 2014, Presidential "Golden Eagle Medal" 2011. Presidential Medal "Grand Master of Sports" 2018, Medal as "The best military officer of Albanian Armed Forces on 100 Anniversary of Albanian State, November 28, 2012, Minister of Interior of Albania in 2017.
Equipment
[edit]| Maroon Berets |
Weapons
[edit]| Pistols | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Model | Image | Caliber | Country |
| Beretta Px4 Storm | 
|
9×19mm |  Italy
|
| FN Five-seven | 
|
5.7×28mm |  Belgium
|
| Glock 19 | 
|
9x19mm |  Austria
|
| Heckler & Koch USP | 
|
.45 ACP |  Germany
|
| Beretta 92 Yavuz 16 |
|
9×19mm | Italy  Turkey
|
| Submachineguns | |||
| HK MP5 MKEK MP5 |
|
9x19mm | West Germany Turkey
|
| HK MP7 | 
|
HK 4.6×30mm | Germany
|
| HK UMP | 
|
.45 ACP | Germany
|
| Assault rifles and Carbines | |||
| Heckler & Koch G36 | 
|
5.56×45mm | Germany
|
| Heckler & Koch HK416 | 
|
5.56×45mm | Germany
|
| Beretta ARX 160 | 
|
5.56×45mm | Italy
|
| AKM | 
|
7.62×39mm |  Soviet Union
|
| Machine guns | |||
| Rheinmetall MG3 | 
|
7.62x51mm | Germany
|
| Heckler & Koch MG4 | 
|
5.56×45mm | Germany
|
| Heckler & Koch MG5 | 
|
7.62×51mm | Germany
|
| Shotguns | |||
| Benelli M4 Super 90 | 
|
12-gauge | Italy
|
| Sniper Rifles. Designated Marksman Rifles and Anti Materiel rifles | |||
| Heckler & Koch HK417 | 
|
7.62×51mm | Germany
|
| Sako TRG | 
|
.308 Winchester |  Finland
|
| Barrett M82 | 
|
.50 BMG |  United States
|
| Heckler & Koch SR9 | 
|
7.62×51mm | Germany
|
| Heckler & Koch PSG1 | 
|
7.62×51mm | Germany
|
| Anti tank Systems | |||
| AT4 | 84mm |  Sweden United States
| |
| RPG-7 | 
|
40 mm Grenade | Soviet Union
|
| BGM-71 TOW | 
|
150mm | United States
|
Vehicles
[edit]| Land Vehicles | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model | Image | Country | Quantity | Note |
| Land Rover Defender | 
|
 United Kingdom
|
N/A | |
| Humvee | 
|
United States
|
N/A | Used in Iraq And Afghanistan |
| International MaxxPro | 
|
United States
|
40 | Used by Eagle-2-8 at Kandahar |
Aircraft
[edit]| Helicopters | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model | Image | Country | Quantity | Note |
| CH-47 Chinook | 
|
United States
|
5 | To be Delivered[4] |
| MBB Bo 105 | 
|
Germany
|
6 | |
| Bell UH-1 Iroquois AB205 |
|
United States Italy
|
7 | 3 received in 2004, with a further 4 ordered for delivery through 2006[5] |
| Eurocopter AS532 Cougar | 
|
 France
|
2 | [6][7] |
References
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Special Operations Battalion (Albania).
- ^ a b "Regjimenti i Operacioneve Speciale, elita e FA, feston 10-vjetorin e krijimit të tij". Albanian Armed Forces (Press release) (in Albanian). 21 October 2008. Retrieved 14 September 2017.
- ^ a b Aguila, 1st Lt. Veronica (2 December 2012). "From the beginning: learning to give everything". U.S. Army. Retrieved 14 September 2017.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ "Lufta për Beretën Vishnje". Revista Mapo (in Albanian). Archived from the original on 26 April 2012. Retrieved 29 July 2012.
- ^ "Albania Bought The CH-47 Chinook. The helicopter Used In the Iraq and Kosovo wars". YouTube.
{{cite web}}: Check|url=value (help) - ^ Das, Wim; Otten, Kees. "ALBANIAN AIRFORCE - Tirana's moving steps" (PDF). Retrieved 2008-12-26.
- ^ Support, Web. "Arrival ceremony of the new Cougar helicopter for the Air Force, version "MEDEVAC"". Ministry of Defence. Retrieved 2019-04-23.
- ^ "The fourth Cougar AS532 AL helicopter arrives".
 Formations of the Albanian Armed Forces | ||
|---|---|---|
| Land Force |
|  |
| Air Force |
| |
| Naval Force |
| |
| TRADOC |
| |
| Support Command |
| |
Support Units: Joint Operations Centre - Personnel Recruitment Centre - Material Management Centre - Military Delegation to NATO - General Staff Support Battalion - Military Police | ||