Russian Security and Paramilitary Forces since 1991

Russian Security and Paramilitary Forces since 1991 (Osprey Elite 197)
by Mark Galeotti

DESCRIPTION:

While the size of RussiaΓÇÖs regular forces has shrunk recently, its security and paramilitary elements have become increasingly powerful. Under the Putin regime they have proliferated and importantly seem set to remain RussiaΓÇÖs most active armed agencies for the immediate future. In parallel, within the murky world where government and private interests intersect, a number of paramilitary ΓÇÿprivate armiesΓÇÖ operate almost as vigilantes, with government toleration or approval.This book offers a succinct overview of the official, semi-official and unofficial agencies that pursue Russian government and quasi-government objectives by armed means, from the 200,000-strong Interior Troops, through Police and other independent departmental forces, down to private security firms. Featuring rare photographs, and detailed colour plates of uniforms, insignia and equipment, this study by a renowned authority explores the Putin regimeΓÇÖs shadowy special-forces apparatus, active in an array of counter-terrorist and counter-mafia wars since 1991.

Amazon.com title link:

http://www.amazon.com/Russian-Security-Paramilitary-Forces-since/dp/1780961057