The Special Operations Regiment is the newest and most elite structure of the Albanian Armed Forces. The regiment was created after the merging of the Special Forces Battalion and the Commando Battalion.
The first organic line-up of this structure was also greeted by the Defence Minister, Niko Peleshi, who was accompanied by the Chief of General Staff of the Armed Forces, Major General Assoc. Prof. Bajram Begaj.
Minister Peleshi praised the long-term contribution of the merged battalions and assured their staff that they will have the attention of the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff to further increase operational capabilities.
"This regiment, despite becoming the youngest unit in the Armed Forces, actually it has our two most well-known, most valued military formations entailing a lot of commitments, contributions, and successes that make us all proud. You are the pride and dignity of the Armed Forces as to our obligations and commitments abroad, starting from missions in Iraq, Afghanistan, and up to Kosovo. As Defence Minister, I feel it is my duty to encourage and support you to further consolidate your good image, operational capabilities, and your role under the new regiment name. As a new structure, the Special Operations Regiment will be in our priorities for staffing, but also for the modernization of combat equipment and armament, to enable the achievement of certain standards and objectives. I assure you that especially your regiment, but also the Land Force and the Armed Forces will have increased attention for support, quality improvements and other significant motivations "- said the Defence Minister.
The first commander of the Special Operations Regiment was appointed Colonel Arben Zani.
