Ethiopia’s Defense Forces Special Operations Command Marks 65th Anniversary with Capability Showcase.
ADDIS ABABA (Horn post) Ethiopia has marked the 65th anniversary of its Defense Forces Special Operations Command with a public display highlighting modern military capabilities, operational readiness, and tactical proficiency.
Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali said Ethiopia is a nation shaped by generations of heroes who have strengthened the country through continuity and resilience. He noted that the Special Operations Command has, over the past 65 years, carried out significant missions that have contributed to national pride while demonstrating endurance through numerous challenges.
According to the Prime Minister, recent defense reform efforts have transformed the command into a modern force in terms of structure, manpower, and equipment. The reorganization integrates airborne units, commando forces, and special counter-terrorism elements, positioning the command to operate effectively at any time and under diverse conditions.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, the command showcased the military capabilities it has developed, including the preparedness of its personnel and coordinated tactical exercises. A key highlight was an integrated water-borne exercise, alongside joint demonstrations by airborne and commando units, which officials said reflected the high operational standards of the armed forces.
The anniversary event underscored the government’s emphasis on defense reform and modernization, as well as the role of elite units in maintaining national security and operational readiness.
Pictures:
Prepared by:
Horn post staff reporter
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia
Abdikarim Saed Salah
Abdikarim Saed Salah is a multimedia journalist, editor, and geopolitical analyst with more than 15 years of professional experience in broadcast journalism, digital media, and international reporting, specializing in the Horn of Africa, Red Sea geopolitics, and regional security affairs. He is the Founder and Editor of Horn Post, an independent digital news platform focused on politics, diplomacy, governance, security, and strategic developments across the Horn of Africa and East Africa. Based in Hargeisa, Somaliland, Abdikarim currently works as a TV Presenter and Producer at Horn Cable TV, covering elections, foreign policy, diplomacy, conflict dynamics, and international affairs shaping the region.

