FSB Counterintelligence Service
Location Analysis
The FSB Counterintelligence Service operates from multiple secure sites across the Russian Federation, with its headquarters located in Moscow. The Information Security Center, also known as the 18th FSB Center (military unit 64829), is believed to be situated in Moscow, in proximity to other critical FSB and government facilities. These sites are characterized by robust physical security measures, including perimeter fencing, controlled access points, and surveillance systems. The strategic placement of these facilities ensures rapid coordination with other security and intelligence entities, while also providing logistical advantages for personnel and resource deployment.
Infrastructure Capabilities
The infrastructure of the FSB Counterintelligence Service and its Information Security Center is highly advanced, supporting both traditional counterintelligence operations and sophisticated cyber activities. The 18th FSB Center is equipped with secure communications suites, dedicated server rooms, and advanced cryptographic hardware. The facility supports a range of technical operations, including signals intelligence, cyber defense, and offensive cyber capabilities. Redundant power supplies, electromagnetic shielding, and secure data storage solutions are standard, ensuring operational continuity and data integrity even under adverse conditions.
Command Structure
The FSB Counterintelligence Service is commanded by Lieutenant General Vladislav Menshchikov, who oversees all counterintelligence and internal security operations. The Information Security Center (18th FSB Center, military unit 64829) is led by Sergey Skorokhodov. The internal structure of the Center includes several specialized departments: the Operational Department, headed by Zhakhongir Bakhritdinovich Yuldashev; the Second Operational Department, previously led by Oleg Innokentyevich Kashentsov until October 2022; and the Information Technology Department, under the direction of Alexey Grachev. This hierarchical organization enables clear lines of authority and specialization, optimizing both operational effectiveness and internal security.
Operational Functions
The FSB Counterintelligence Service is tasked with identifying, neutralizing, and preventing espionage and subversive activities targeting the Russian Federation. The Information Security Center, as the 18th FSB Center, specializes in cyber counterintelligence, information security, and technical surveillance countermeasures. The Operational Department conducts active counterintelligence operations, while the Second Operational Department (until October 2022) focused on specialized operational tasks, possibly including high-priority investigations and liaison with other security agencies. The Information Technology Department develops and maintains secure IT infrastructure, supports cyber operations, and manages technical aspects of information security.
Personnel and Training
Personnel assigned to the FSB Counterintelligence Service and its Information Security Center are subject to rigorous vetting and continuous security assessments. Staff are drawn from elite technical and operational backgrounds, with advanced training in counterintelligence, cyber operations, and information security. The organization maintains in-house training programs and collaborates with technical institutes and military academies to ensure personnel are proficient in the latest technologies and methodologies. Emphasis is placed on operational secrecy, technical proficiency, and rapid response to emerging threats.
Technological Assets
The Information Security Center is equipped with state-of-the-art technological assets, including custom-developed cyber defense platforms, advanced intrusion detection systems, and proprietary encryption technologies. The Center maintains capabilities for both defensive and offensive cyber operations, including malware analysis, digital forensics, and network penetration testing. Secure communication channels are maintained using Russian-developed cryptographic protocols, and the facility is believed to have access to advanced surveillance and data collection tools, supporting both domestic and international intelligence operations.
Security Measures
Security at FSB Counterintelligence Service sites is multi-layered, combining physical, personnel, and technical safeguards. Access to sensitive areas is tightly controlled through biometric authentication, security clearances, and continuous monitoring. The facilities are protected against electronic eavesdropping and physical intrusion, with counter-surveillance teams regularly conducting security sweeps. Cybersecurity protocols are stringent, with network segmentation, real-time threat monitoring, and incident response teams on standby. These measures collectively ensure the integrity and confidentiality of operations conducted within these sites.