Vityaz (MVD)

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Vityaz unit emblem

Vityaz (Russian: Витязь, "Knight") is a Russian Spetsnaz unit of the MVD.

Vityaz is assigned specifically to counter-terrorism duties. Vityaz unit regularly conducts counter-terrorism patrols in Chechnya and along the Caucasus border. Vityaz troops are also trained to stop rebellions in prisons and regular army units, should they occur. Approximately 75 members of Vityaz have been awarded the title Hero of the Russian Federation for their bravery.

1 Selection and Training
2 Battle honours
3 Uniforms and Insignia
4 Weapons and Equipment
5 See also
6 External links

[edit] Selection and Training

All volunteers for the Vityaz unit undergo the same selection course and training as regular GRU Spetsnaz trainees. The training is rigorous and very physically demanding, and less than 2 in 10 candidates pass the course. The training for Spetsnaz is described in fuller detail in the book Spetsnaz : Inside the Soviet SAS by the GRU defector Vladimir Rezun writing as Viktor Suvorov. The training course lasts for several months and includes training in hand to hand combat, weapons, intelligence gathering, hostage negotiation and rescue, riot control, field medicine and a large emphasis on physical fitness.

[edit] Battle honours

Several members of Vityaz have been heavily decorated for bravery for actions in Chechnya.

[edit] Uniforms and Insignia

Vityaz wear the regular uniforms of the Russian army with the MVD Internal Troops flag patch worn on the left sleeve. Also they sometimes wear MVD specific patterns that are dissimilar to the VSR uniforms, Such as Tigerstripe and Partizan. During specific high-profile counter-terrorism operations, vityaz troops usually wear black combat uniforms with special insignia, with uniforms clearly marked 'CПEЦHAЗ' (spetsnaz) on the front and rear to aid identification by friendly forces. Characteristic blood group patches are also worn to aid medical help in the event of injury. The distinctive Vityaz patch is worn on the right sleeve. The patch shows a fist imposed on an AK-47 rifle which is in turn imposed on a red star. On the left sleeve a special flag patch is worn which reads troops of special purpose and displays a sword and flag above the legend MVD. Vityaz members usually wear body armour and balaclavas and generally present a very intimidating appearance.

[edit] Weapons and Equipment

Vityaz use the same weapons and equipment as other units of the Russian army but are generally given preference over access to the newer weapons. Not very much information is available, but they are believed to have fielded the NR-2 combat knife which incorporates a 7.62 pistol, fired by clipping the knife and scabbard together.