A solemn ceremony was held in Kyiv to present a new postage stamp dedicated to the heroic unit of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine — the special unit “Artan”
This issue, created with the support of Ukrposhta, holds exceptional symbolic significance and is an important act of honoring the brave soldiers fighting for Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity under the most challenging conditions of the modern war. The limited edition of the new stamp was issued in only 1,670 copies, given its historical and purely symbolic value. The project was implemented as part of a broad campaign to honor Ukrainian heroes, particularly the combat units of the GUR, which have distinguished themselves since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine as some of the most effective and deadly components of the country’s defense system. The "Artan" unit, formed in 2022, has become a symbol of a new era in Ukrainian intelligence. Its fighters have gained widespread fame for their operations, which have strategic significance for Ukraine’s defense strategy. They defended Kyiv region, participated in battles in Donetsk — notably in the decisive fights in Bakhmut and Chasiv Yar, and also proved themselves in Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia. Equally important is their contribution to maritime missions in the Black Sea — from the return of Ukrainian "Boyko towers" to playing a key role in unblocking the grain corridor, which holds significant economic and strategic importance for the country. The "Artan" organization performs extremely important and complex tasks — from combat operations on the front lines to secret reconnaissance missions abroad, about which information is currently classified. They participate in battles near Bakhmut and Kupiansk, as well as in the liberation of Kharkiv region and the defense of Kyiv region, — said during the presentation Kyrylo Budanov, head of the GUR. His words emphasize once again the high level and uniqueness of the operations carried out by the "Artan" fighters. Attending the ceremony were not only representatives of military structures but also the leadership of Ukrposhta: CEO Igor Smilyanskyi, unit commander Viktor Torkotjuk, and the fighters of "Artan" themselves. Together, they had the opportunity to view the new artistic envelope, which highlights the heroic path of the unit, as well as the special cancellation stamp, adding particular collectible value to the postage stamp. "This is not just a stamp — it is a kind of documentation of historical events. In wartime, the "Artan" fighters have carried out a series of successful operations that changed the course of combat and are now etched in Ukraine’s history. Much more remains to be done for victory, but this symbol is a sign of our gratitude and recognition of their heroic contribution," emphasized Kyrylo Budanov. On separate sheets of the stamp, six key operations of the unit, which were decisive for Ukraine’s defense and security, are depicted. Additionally, each set includes an artistic envelope featuring portraits of the fighters and scenes from combat, as well as a special cancellation stamp, making this edition a true treasure for collectors and supporters of the Ukrainian army. Brigadier General "Filosof," who is directly involved with subordinate reconnaissance groups, noted: "Ukrainian military intelligence officers are well known for their successes and operational mastery. Today, "Artan" is one of the most effective special forces not only in Ukraine but also on a global scale. They have proven their ability to elevate the Ukrainian army to a new level and operate in the conditions of modern warfare, risking their lives for the country’s security." Thus, the new postage stamp is not only a symbolic souvenir but also an important element of historical memory and national pride. It reminds us of the heroism and professionalism of Ukrainian soldiers defending their homeland in the most difficult times, and it affirms the resilience of the Ukrainian spirit to the world.