The Birth of Ukraine’s Alpha Unit: How the SBU Forged an Elite Fighting Force.

Anniversary of the ‘A’ Special Operations Center

According to Novyny.live: Ukraine marks June 23 as the founding day of the Security Service of Ukraine’s (SBU) ‘A’ Special Operations Center. Originally established as an anti-terrorism unit, it has evolved into one of the nation’s most formidable special forces. The unit was created on June 23, 1994, by a presidential decree. In 2005, it was officially renamed the ‘A’ Special Operations Center of the SBU, and in 2025 its designation was shortened to simply the ‘A’ Special Operations Center.

Combat Record

Since 2014, when armed aggression against Ukraine began, Alpha fighters have been actively deployed in combat. Earlier, in 2000, they participated in storming a disciplinary battalion in Kyiv. In the spring of 2014, Alpha operators entered direct armed confrontation with Russian and pro-Russian forces in Donbas, and on April 13, 2014, they carried out combat missions near Sloviansk.

These special forces were instrumental in liberating:

• Kramatorsk
• Mariupol
• Izium
• Balakliia
• Kupiansk

Their operations to free Snake Island took place under intense enemy fire. Alpha snipers also conducted counter-sniper missions in Bakhmut, showcasing exceptional skill under pressure.

Over the course of the conflict, Alpha operators have eliminated over 8,000 Russian troops and thousands of pieces of enemy equipment. Through their actions and the use of advanced technology, the ‘A’ Special Operations Center has become a critical pillar of Ukraine’s national security.

The anniversary of the ‘A’ Special Operations Center serves as a powerful reminder of this unit’s contribution to defending the nation during armed aggression. Its record highlights the vital role of special forces in modern warfare and underscores the importance of rigorous training and professionalism in executing complex combat missions. Given the ongoing challenges Ukraine faces, the continued operation of such units remains essential to the country’s security.