Lukashenko Receives Report on Ongoing Belarusian Military Readiness Inspection

President Lukashenko Reviews Military Readiness

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko received a report on February 18, 2026, detailing the progress of a large-scale inspection of the Armed Forces' combat readiness. The comprehensive evaluation, personally ordered by the head of state, commenced on January 16, 2026, and is designed to provide an objective assessment of the military's actual state and operational capabilities.

The report was presented by State Secretary of the Security Council Aleksandr Volfovich. President Lukashenko was informed about the completion of the second stage of the inspection, which involved assessing the combat readiness of most military units across nearly all branches of the Armed Forces, including special operations forces.

Snap Inspection Methodology and Objectives

A key characteristic of this inspection is its 'snap' nature, with military units being put on combat alert without prior notification to the Defense Ministry or the General Staff. President Lukashenko explained his direct involvement, stating, 'I trust everyone. But this is a snap inspection conducted by the commander-in-chief. And I want to see how the General Staff and the Defense Ministry will act during this snap inspection.'

The primary goal is to obtain an objective picture, assess the actual state of the troops, and evaluate the actions of military personnel. The inspection incorporates combat experience gained in modern military conflicts, with an increased focus on countering unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and small group operations. During the inspection, units of the Internal Troops of the Ministry of Internal Affairs acted as a simulated enemy during control exercises.

Key Findings and Participating Units

On February 13, 2026, President Lukashenko personally inspected the combat readiness at the 227th combined arms training ground in Borisov District. Following this, State Secretary Volfovich provided a preliminary assessment, stating, 'The army is capable of fighting. All marches were completed, no personnel or equipment were lost along the way.'

Numerous military units have been subjected to the inspection, including:

• 19th Separate Guards Mechanized Brigade
• 72nd Guards Joint Training Center
• 38th Separate Guards Air Assault Brigade
• 103rd Vitebsk Airborne Brigade
• 120th Separate Guards Mechanized Brigade
• 11th Separate Guards Mechanized Brigade
• 6th Mechanised Brigade
• 78th Independent Mechanised Battalion

The inspection also involved the call-up of reservists and the removal of military equipment from storage. President Lukashenko has tasked officials with thoroughly analyzing any shortcomings revealed during the inspection to identify weaknesses and enhance training for personnel, including officers. The inspection is expected to continue until spring, with further assessments of other military units planned.