7 january, 2026 | 15

Fighters of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine received awards

State and departmental awards were presented by Colonel Mykyta “Raz-Dva” Nadtochii, Deputy Commander of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine. Eight servicemen received the highest internal distinction — the chevrons of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine, a symbol of their significant contribution to the unit’s activities and the recognition they have earned among their brothers-in-arms. Awards of the President of Ukraine, distinctions of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, honorary badges of the Commander of the National Guard of Ukraine, as well as other decorations, were also presented. “Raz-Dva” while addressing the awarded soldiers, sergeants, and officers said:

Each of us has our own story connected to different units. Everyone has followed their own combat path, but today we all stand shoulder to shoulder within a single unit — the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine — and wear its chevron on our left shoulder. Everyone being honored today makes an important contribution to our common cause and commits themselves to it fully.

Mykyta “Raz-Dva” Nadtochii

Colonel, Deputy commander of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine

Colonel Nadtochii expressed his gratitude to the servicemen on behalf of the commander of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine for the important and demanding work they are carrying out during the war.

заступник командира 1-го корпусу НГУ «Азов» вручає нагороду бійцю

шеврони та державні нагороди які лежать на столі

шикування бійців 1-го корпусу НГУ «Азов»

Микита «Раз-Два» Надточій вручає державну нагороду бійцю

1 corps azov 1 corps ngu azov awarding soldiers azov azov ceremony azov chevrons ceremony corps azov national guard of ukraine raz-dva

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FAQ

Unlike the operational and tactical group model, a corps commander can exercise command and control over subordinate units.

The corps system enables more efficient management of combat forces at the operational-tactical level. It addresses the issue of fragmented command structures, strengthens unit cohesion, improves combat effectiveness, and ensures a unified chain of command — critical for conducting large-scale combat operations.

The First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine is responsible for key tasks related to both defensive and offensive operations in the frontline sector designated by the High Command, including:

Liberating the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine;
Destroying enemy personnel and equipment;
Increasing the combat effectiveness of National Guard units and advancing the profession of arms;
Implementing standards and exchanging experience.

The First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine is commanded by Colonel Denys “Redis” Prokopenko.

The following units operate as part of the corps:

1st Presidential Operational Brigade Bureviy;
12th Special Forces Brigade Azov;
14th Operational Brigade Chervona Kalyna;
15th Operational Brigade Kara Dag;
Newly established 20th Operational Brigade Liubart.

Yes. Units within the corps continue recruiting volunteers. As Azov’s responsibilities and operational scope grow, its recruitment center network will serve the needs of all Corps units. Azov Brigade’s recruitment centers will now be joined by representatives from other brigades that make up the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine.

The 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov serves as the foundation for the newly established First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine. However, the corps itself is led by a corps-level command group formed based on the officer cadre of the 12th Brigade.

Fighters of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine received awards

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FAQ

Why was the corps system introduced?

What tasks will the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine carry out?

Who is the commander of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine?

What units comprise the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine?

Does the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine recruit new service members?

Is the 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine expanding into a corps?

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