Airport security in Uzbekistan to be transferred to the State Security Service’s “Lochin” unit

Starting from 2026, responsibility for guarding and ensuring security at all airports in Uzbekistan will be transferred to the State Security Service. This was announced by State Security Service Chairman, Colonel General Bakhodir Kurbonov, during an expanded meeting of the Security Council chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on January 13, which focused on strengthening national military security and defense.

According to Kurbonov, a presidential decision adopted in 2024 assigned the task of protecting international airports to the State Security Service, leading to the re-establishment of the “Lochin” brigade.

“In a short period of time, large-scale reforms were implemented within the brigade. Its combat readiness and preparedness were thoroughly reviewed. In particular, the brigade’s weapons were fully modernized, nearly 100 units of equipment were replaced, and command and control of operational activities were fully digitized. Combat training facilities and complexes capable of conducting simultaneous training for up to 700 servicemen were built. In addition, five new administrative facilities of the brigade were constructed in various regions,” the general said.

Kurbonov noted that a new security system has already been introduced at Tashkent International Airport and Tashkent Humo Airport based on patrol and control units. This effective practice is planned to be extended to all airports across the country in 2026.

He also stated that work will continue to equip brigade units with light armored vehicles, quad bikes, and modern night-vision devices.

For reference, in November 2024, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev appointed Bakhodir Kurbonov as Chairman of the State Security Service. Following this appointment, strengthening security at airports and other strategic facilities through digitalization and modern technologies was identified as a priority task.

The “Lochin” special unit within the State Security Service is responsible for counterterrorism operations at airports, ensuring the security of high-profile individuals, and carrying out high-level rapid response and protection missions.