FSB Military Counterintelligence Department (3rd FSB Department)
Location Analysis
The principal headquarters of the FSB Military Counterintelligence Department (3rd FSB Department) and its associated Military Intelligence Department are situated at Bolshaya Lubyanka 12, Moscow. This location is historically significant as the central node of Russian security and intelligence operations, offering robust physical and technical security measures. The proximity to other key government and intelligence institutions facilitates rapid coordination and centralized command.
Organizational Structure
The 3rd FSB Department, designated as military unit 70850, encompasses both counterintelligence and military intelligence functions. It is led by Lieutenant General Nikolai Yuryev. The department is subdivided into specialized directorates responsible for intelligence and counterintelligence support to various branches of the Russian Armed Forces and the National Guard (Rosgvardiya), reflecting a comprehensive and integrated approach to military security.
Infrastructure Capabilities
The headquarters at Bolshaya Lubyanka 12 is equipped with advanced communications, secure data storage, and analytical facilities. These capabilities support real-time intelligence collection, processing, and dissemination. The infrastructure is hardened against physical and cyber threats, with multiple layers of access control and redundant systems to ensure operational continuity.
Command and Leadership
The FSB Military Counterintelligence Department is commanded by Lieutenant General Nikolai Yuryev. Subordinate intelligence directorates are led by senior officers with significant operational experience, including Lieutenant General Vyacheslav Ryazansky (Rosgvardiya), Evgeniy Puchkov (Aerospace Forces), Gleb Kurbatsky (Long-Range and Military-Transport Aviation), Major General Viktor Pavlenko (Central Military District), Alexey Pushkarev (Western Military District), Evgeniy Grigoriev (Southern Military District), Dmitry Tsygankov (Eastern Military District), Sergey Shcherbachenko (Pacific Fleet), Pavel Nekryata (12th Chief Directorate), Oleg Sukhanov (RVSN 27th Guards Missile Army), and Sergey Brakorenko (RVSN 33rd Missile Army). This leadership structure ensures direct liaison with military commands and facilitates rapid decision-making.
Functional Responsibilities
Each directorate within the 3rd FSB Department is tasked with providing tailored intelligence and counterintelligence support to its designated military or security branch. Responsibilities include threat assessment, internal security, protection of classified information, and counterespionage. Specialized units focus on the unique operational environments of the National Guard, Aerospace Forces, strategic missile forces, and regional military districts.
Operational Integration
The FSB Military Intelligence Department maintains close operational integration with the Russian Armed Forces and the National Guard. Liaison officers and embedded intelligence teams ensure seamless information flow and support for both strategic and tactical operations. This integration enhances situational awareness and enables coordinated responses to emerging threats.
Strategic Significance
The 3rd FSB Department and its subordinate directorates play a critical role in safeguarding Russia's military and strategic assets. Their activities underpin the security of command structures, nuclear forces, and advanced weaponry. The department's reach across all major military districts and strategic commands ensures comprehensive coverage and rapid threat mitigation.
Recent Developments
As of 2024, the FSB Military Counterintelligence Department has continued to enhance its technical capabilities, particularly in cyber defense and electronic surveillance. There is a notable emphasis on countering foreign intelligence operations and protecting critical military infrastructure from sabotage and infiltration. Leadership appointments reflect a trend towards promoting officers with experience in hybrid warfare and information security.