Addis Ababa, February 21, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said the Special Operations Command of the Ethiopian National Defense Force is fully prepared to perform its duties under any conditions as defense modernization efforts advance.
The 65th anniversary celebrations continue this week in Hawassa, featuring demonstrations of tactical exercises and operational capabilities that reflect institutional reforms and enhanced readiness.
“Ethiopia is a land of many heroes who have strengthened the country through generational continuity. The Special Operations Command of the Defense Forces, over the past 65 years, has carried out outstanding missions that have made Ethiopia proud, demonstrating unbreakable resilience through numerous challenges.”
He further said that defense reforms have modernized the command in structure, manpower, and equipment by incorporating airborne, commando, and special counter-terrorism forces, adding that it “stands in a reliable position to carry out its duties effectively at any time and under any conditions.”