Spetsgruppa A, Russia's elite special force, was formed.

Spetsgruppa "A", also known as Alpha Group, officially Directorate "A" of FSB Special Purpose Center, is a sub-unit of Russian special forces within the Russian Special Forces Center of the Federal Security Service (FSB). It was created by the Soviet KGB in 1974. Although little is known about the exact nature of its primary directives, it is speculated that the unit is authorised to act under the direct control and sanction of Russia's top political leadership, similar to its sister unit, the Directorate "V" (Vympel), which is officially tasked with protecting Russia's strategic installations, as well as conducting black operations inside and outside Russia. It is also available for extended police duties, for paramilitary operations, and for covert operations, both domestically and internationally.