ABSTRACT
This chapter attempts to clarify some of the issues raised in Western writings by describing the history, organization, and functions of the two types of Committee of State Security (KGB) troops. In addition to punitive powers and seemingly unlimited access to politically sensitive information, the KGB’s authority is buttressed by the presence of troops under its direct control. The border troops, which constitute the largest component of KGB forces, are organized under a separate unnumbered chief directorate. The Army and the security forces were on opposing sides in the struggle between Beria and his opponents, but it is not clear that KGB guard troops are intended, along with the Ministry of Internal Affairs internal troops, as a counterforce to the regular military. More than one source has claimed that in addition to guard troops, the KGB has several units of signal troops. The border troops are by law under the jurisdiction of the USSR KGB.
