The Peacekeeping Forces, established by the United Nations (UN) in 1948, aim to prevent conflicts and freeze crises, even if for a short period, around the world.
Modern.az presents a research article about the peacekeeping missions of Azerbaijani servicemen abroad.
The first peacekeeping platoon within the Azerbaijani Armed Forces was established in 1997, and in 2001, these forces were elevated to battalion level. As stated in our country's National Security Concept, harmonization with NATO forces and participation in internationally mandated operations are among the main priorities of our defense policy. Within this framework, our servicemen have successfully completed many global missions.
Kosovo mission: Shoulder to shoulder with Turkey
From September 1999, Azerbaijani soldiers began serving in Kosovo under the umbrella of NATO. Our 34-person platoon, serving within the Turkish battalion, mainly in the Dragash region, was directly responsible for the security of 18 villages. Until 2008, a total of 362 of our military personnel operated in this region, and after Kosovo's declaration of independence, our contingent returned home. NATO leadership specifically noted Azerbaijan's distinct and professional stance in this mission.
Iraq: Reliable protection of strategic facilities
In 2003-2008, Azerbaijani peacekeepers were part of the International Coalition Forces in Iraq. Our 151-person personnel, under the command of the US Marine Corps, protected the vital Haditha Dam and HPP, which provided a quarter of the country's electricity needs. In this mission, where more than 1000 of our soldiers served in rotation over five years, our discipline was highly praised by American generals. One Azerbaijani serviceman was martyred in the Iraq mission.
Afghanistan: The last heroes to leave Kabul
In the Afghanistan mission (ISAF) which started in 2002, Azerbaijan was initially represented by a 22-person platoon, but this number was later increased to company level. Our servicemen ensured the protection of strategic facilities and ammunition depots in Kabul. From 2015, our 94-person contingent was involved in the protection of Kabul International Airport. In 2021, when NATO troops left Afghanistan, Azerbaijani soldiers were among the very last contingents to withdraw from the territory. US officials called the courage of Azerbaijanis and their loyalty to fight shoulder to shoulder the highest example of partnership in the fight against global terrorism.
International experience and the strength of our army
Only the most prepared personnel, who know foreign languages and are intellectually and physically fit, are always selected for the peacekeeping contingent. For Azerbaijani officers, who have been hardened in real war conditions for many years, making the right decision in force majeure situations has not been difficult. These global operations not only increase the combat capability of our army but also further strengthen our country's image as a reliable and strategic partner in the international arena.
