“Burkit” Special Forces Mark 26 Years: Elite National Guard Unit Achieves Significant Operational Results
On 11 December, the Special Purpose Unit “Burkit” of the National Guard of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan marks the 26th anniversary of its establishment. Formed in 1999, the “Burkit” unit today represents a mobile, highly professional and combat-ready force, deployed in the country’s largest cities.
Over the years of service, “Burkit” fighters have earned a reputation as the elite of the National Guard, consistently demonstrating professionalism and devotion to duty. As a result, selection for the National Guard special forces remains one of the most demanding. Candidates undergo rigorous testing of physical fitness, endurance, stress resistance, and their ability to operate in extreme conditions. Only a select few succeed in passing the trials for the maroon beret.
This is due to the wide range of missions carried out by the unit, including the arrest of especially dangerous criminals, combating illegal armed groups, preventing sabotage, hostage rescue operations, and participation in counterterrorism missions.
In the current year alone, the unit carried out around 2,000 service and combat missions. During joint operations with operational agencies, the activities of seven organized criminal groups were suppressed, and six leaders of criminal organizations were detained. Approximately 1,600 offenders were delivered to internal affairs bodies.
More than 150 firearms and traumatic weapons, about 130 bladed weapons, over 2,700 rounds of ammunition, and more than 9.4 tons of narcotic substances were seized from illegal circulation. Twelve clandestine drug laboratories were dismantled.
These results confirm the high professional standard of the special forces personnel, which is recognized beyond the country’s borders as well.
At the UAE SWAT Challenge—often referred to as the “Olympics of Special Forces”—National Guard servicemembers have ranked among the world’s leading teams for the second consecutive year. Special forces personnel regularly undergo overseas training and exchange experience with foreign counterparts.
The development of the unit’s professional level is reflected not only in training and international competitions but also in cultural initiatives. In November 2023, the feature film “Burkit. Special Purpose Unit”, dedicated to the courage of National Guard servicemembers, premiered in Almaty.
In addition, this year saw the establishment of the sports team “Burkit TEAM,” marking an important step in strengthening the image of the country and the National Guard both internationally and on the domestic sports arena.
On the eve of the anniversary, by order of the Minister of Internal Affairs, Police Lieutenant General Yerzhan Sadenov, 21 special forces servicemembers were awarded letters of appreciation, certificates, and departmental badges. In accordance with an order of the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs — Commander-in-Chief of the National Guard, Major General Ansagan Baltabekov, a further 67 servicemembers received commendations. In addition, three National Guard servicemembers were promoted ahead of schedule.
For 26 years, the “Burkit” Special Purpose Unit has remained the elite of the law enforcement forces, and its fighters continue to set an example of courage, professionalism, and loyalty to the military oath.
Press Service of the National Guard
Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan