52nd International Assault Regiment “Forge” is a unit within the 1st Corps of the Ukrainian National Guard “Azov”, deployed at the base of the 3rd International Battalion of the “Azov” Brigade. The unit has a unique international character, as it brings together volunteers from 40 countries around the world who, alongside Ukrainian servicemen, are defending the country’s sovereignty. The cornerstone for all personnel, regardless of their country of origin, is adherence to internal standards, high discipline and the professional criteria characteristic of “Azov”.
Over a year and a half of active combat operations, the unit has successfully carried out tactical missions in the Toretsk and Dobropillia sectors. It has distinguished itself through its effectiveness, notably by taking 18 enemy servicemen prisoner within a single day.
The coordinated efforts of the personnel and command have resulted in an increase in the unit’s combat capability and the expansion of its structure.
The 12th “Azov” Brigade formed an International Battalion, the core of which consisted of foreign volunteers with experience of serving in the brigade. Lieutenant Colonel Yuriy “Karl” Chekh was appointed commander of the unit. A training course for recruits lasting several months was conducted, and the unit was presented with its battle standard.
The unit began carrying out combat missions in the Toretsk sector, specifically in the areas around the settlements of Yablunivka and Oleksandro-Kalinove.
Captain Pavlo “Kil” Kurchenko took command of the unit. The battalion began conducting strike and search operations in the Dobropillia sector within the area of responsibility of the 1st “Azov” Corps. During an operation near the village of Zolotyi Kolodyazh, the fighters captured 18 enemy servicemen in a single day, setting a record for effectiveness within the brigade.
The successful completion of tasks and the continuous expansion of the unit’s strength laid a solid foundation for the battalion’s subsequent reorganisation into the 52nd Assault Regiment “Forge”.
“Kil” began his career in the Armed Forces in 2016, joining the 503rd Separate Marine Battalion, stationed in Mariupol. In 2020, he transferred to the ‘Azov’ Special Forces Detachment.
With the start of the full-scale invasion on 25 February 2022, he arrived in Mariupol to repel the enemy and defend the city. During fierce fighting, he sustained a serious injury and was evacuated via an air corridor from the besieged Azovstal steelworks. Immediately after his recovery and medical rehabilitation, he returned to his duties.
Within the “Azov” Brigade, specifically in the 1st Battalion, he rose through the ranks from company commander to deputy battalion commander. In September 2025, he took command of the International Battalion, on the basis of which the 52nd Assault Regiment “Forge” was subsequently formed.
