Special Communications and Information Service (Spetssvyaz)
Organizational Overview
The Special Communications and Information Service (Spetssvyaz) is a specialized branch within the Russian Federal Protective Service (FSO), tasked with ensuring secure government communications and information security. Headquartered in Moscow at 1st Mytishchinskaya street, 17, and commanded by Vasily Zapltakin, Spetssvyaz oversees a network of operational, technical, and territorial units. Its structure encompasses both central command elements and a distributed network of communications centers and training facilities, reflecting a layered approach to secure communications for state and military leadership.
Location Analysis
The primary headquarters of Spetssvyaz is strategically located in Moscow, facilitating direct coordination with federal authorities and other security agencies. Subordinate units, such as the 18th Operational and Technical Communications Center (military unit 65240) and various Special Purpose Communications Centers, are dispersed across Russia. This geographic distribution enhances redundancy, resilience, and rapid response capabilities in the event of localized disruptions or security threats.
Infrastructure Capabilities
Spetssvyaz maintains a robust infrastructure comprising specialized communications centers, technical support units, and dedicated training facilities. The 18th Operational and Technical Communications Center and units such as military units 54985, 56707, and 38953-K are equipped with advanced secure communication systems, encryption technologies, and electronic countermeasure capabilities. The FSO Special Purpose Communication Units Training Center (military unit 13291) ensures continuous personnel development and technical proficiency, supporting the operational readiness of all subordinate units.
Command and Control Structure
The command structure of Spetssvyaz is hierarchical, with centralized leadership at the Moscow headquarters and delegated authority to regional and specialized units. Each communications center, such as the 3rd (military unit 28685), 4th (77071), 11th (57358), 15th (16662), and 16th (68323) Special Purpose Communications Centers, operates under strict protocols to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of government communications. This structure enables efficient command and control, rapid dissemination of directives, and compartmentalization of sensitive information.
Operational Functions
The core operational functions of Spetssvyaz include the provision of secure voice, data, and video communications for senior government officials and critical state infrastructure. Units such as the 17th (28677), 20th (69793), 25th (35657), and 28th (68895) Special Purpose Communications Centers are responsible for maintaining continuous, encrypted communication channels, supporting both routine operations and crisis response. The service also plays a key role in electronic warfare defense, cyber protection, and the safeguarding of classified information.
Training and Personnel Development
The FSO Special Purpose Communication Units Training Center (military unit 13291) is dedicated to the recruitment, training, and certification of Spetssvyaz personnel. The center provides specialized instruction in cryptography, secure network management, and electronic countermeasures, ensuring that all operators are proficient in the latest communication security protocols. Ongoing training cycles and technical upgrades are integral to maintaining operational effectiveness in the face of evolving technological threats.
Security and Redundancy Measures
Spetssvyaz employs a multi-layered security approach, integrating physical, technical, and procedural safeguards across all sites. Redundant communication links, backup power supplies, and hardened facilities are standard features of major centers. Territorial units, such as the 5th Territorial Government Communications Unit (38953-K) and n/a Territorial Government Communications Unit (38953-Ya), provide additional layers of redundancy, ensuring continuity of operations under adverse conditions, including cyberattacks or physical sabotage.
Strategic Significance
The network of Spetssvyaz military sites constitutes a critical component of Russia's national security architecture. By ensuring the confidentiality, availability, and integrity of government communications, these facilities underpin the decision-making capabilities of the Russian leadership. The distributed nature of the network, combined with advanced technological capabilities, positions Spetssvyaz as a central actor in both peacetime governance and wartime command and control.