What Lies Ahead for Special Operations in 2026
In an interview with Glavcom, Commander Valerii Koretskyi of the 5th Special Purpose Detachment Omega identified the overwhelming presence of enemy drones as the primary challenge facing special forces in 2026. Koretskyi stressed that the nature of combat has fundamentally shifted, demanding that his unit adapt to the new realities on the battlefield. For context, Ukraine’s special operations forces have had to continuously evolve their tactics since the start of the full-scale invasion to counter rapidly changing threats.
According to the commander, the 5th Special Purpose Detachment Omega has undergone a major transformation during the war. In 2022, the unit focused on counter-sabotage work, reconnaissance, and operations deep behind enemy lines. However, the period from 2023 to 2024 marked the most intense phase of assault operations. During this time, special operators carried out a wide range of missions, including:
- destroying logistics routes;
- conducting nighttime raids;
- liberating territory, such as in the Serebryanskyi forest area.
Omega's Evolving Role
Koretskyi emphasized that today’s Omega unit functions as a 'scalpel, not a hammer,' highlighting a shift in the detachment’s role in the war.
“War is changing—we are flexible and we adapt,” he stated.He also noted that carrying out a multi-day raid on enemy positions was far easier in 2023 than it will be in 2026, when 'enemy drones are constantly hanging in the air.' In Koretskyi’s view,
“success is simply getting to the starting point in one piece.”
Earlier, Roman Yashchenko, Deputy Commander of the Lasar's Group strike drone unit and a Hero of Ukraine, discussed how the availability of drones has changed since the start of the full-scale invasion. Koretskyi asserts that 'we are always sent where quick decisions are needed and where the hard work is,' underscoring the critical role special forces play in modern combat conditions.
The changing nature of warfare and the growing role of unmanned aerial vehicles make it clear that Ukrainian special operators must not only refine their skills but also adapt their strategies to counter the new technologies employed by the enemy. This highlights the importance of innovation and flexibility in military operations, which has become a decisive factor in contemporary conflicts.
The evolving landscape of modern warfare requires not only tactical adaptability but also sufficient manpower. As Valerii Koretskyi, the Commander of the Omega Unit, recently highlighted, the army faces an urgent need for more personnel to effectively counter emerging threats. Understanding the implications of personnel shortages is crucial for grasping the full scope of challenges that lie ahead for Ukraine's special forces. For further insights on this pressing issue, read more about the army's critical need for additional troops.