The Donbas Special Purpose Battalion is a unit of Ukraine’s National Guard, currently part of the 18th Sloviansk Brigade. Established in 2014, initially as a volunteer battalion, it has served in major operations and frontline areas, including the battles of Ilovaisk, Debaltseve, Pisky and Avdiivka. In 2022, the unit helped defend Donetsk and Luhansk regions and took part in the Kharkiv counteroffensive, including the liberation of Volochiv Yar, Kupiansk and Zarichne. It continues to serve on the eastern front.

The battalion’s website focuses on recruitment and provides information about joining through mobilization, contract service or transfer for serving National Guard members. It offers professional military training led by experienced commanders, along with necessary equipment, social benefits, medical support and leave. Candidates can apply for a wide range of roles, including combat medic, driver, communications specialist, drone operator, sapper, reconnaissance soldier and technical positions. Previous experience is not required; applicants are assessed and trained for their roles. The site also explains selection steps, required documents, eligibility and basic training.