President Tokayev Honors Elite Special Forces After Historic Victory at UAE SWAT Challenge 2026
Astana, The Gulf Observer: President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Monday awarded Kazakhstan’s elite special forces at the Akorda Residence, celebrating their outstanding victory at the prestigious UAE SWAT Challenge 2026, the Akorda press service reported.
Congratulating the winners, the Head of State said the servicemen demonstrated the indomitable spirit of Kazakh warriors to the world and significantly enhanced Kazakhstan’s international prestige.
“Defending the honor of the country, you have achieved a brilliant victory in this prestigious tournament. Owing to this, our sky-blue flag soared proudly, and the glory of our Motherland has reached new heights. We are truly proud of you,” President Tokayev stated.
The tournament, held in Dubai, brought together more than 100 elite units from 48 countries and is regarded as one of the most demanding tactical competitions globally. Over five days, participants underwent extreme endurance tests and complex combat simulations at the limits of human capability.
President Tokayev highlighted that the “Kazakhstan C” team became the absolute champion, marking a historic milestone in the competition’s history. The “Kazakhstan A” team secured second place, while the “Tomiris” women’s national team claimed the top position in the women’s category. All five Kazakh units ranked among the top 20 teams overall.
“This success is no accident. Every achievement is the fruit of iron discipline and relentless labor,” the President emphasized, praising the fighters’ professionalism, tactical precision, and coordinated teamwork.
He noted that last year Kazakhstan’s fighters won two silver medals, and this year’s triumph reflects consistent progress and systemic development within the country’s law enforcement and security agencies.
The President underscored the importance of strict discipline, military professionalism, and readiness to defend national interests amid a complex and unstable geopolitical environment. He stressed that Kazakhstan is prioritizing comprehensive modernization and technological re-equipment of its military and security sectors.
During the ceremony, President Tokayev also referred to the nationwide referendum scheduled for March 15 on the draft of the new Constitution, describing it as a historic decision that will shape the country’s future. He stated that the draft enshrines sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the protection of human rights as supreme values, alongside the principles of “Just Kazakhstan” and “Law and Order.”
By presidential decree, officers and servicemen returning from the UAE SWAT Challenge-2026 were awarded the Order of “Aibyn” (Valor), II Degree, named after Bauyrzhan Momyshuly, the “Jauyngerlık Erlıgı üşın” (For Military Valor) Medal, and Letters of Commendation from the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Concluding the ceremony, President Tokayev affirmed that service to the Motherland is the highest honor and expressed confidence that Kazakhstan’s special forces will continue to safeguard national interests with unwavering dedication.
