History of the Department’s Formation
The Department of Armament and Shooting was established in 1997 during the formation of the Military School of the Internal Troops of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Initially, it served as a center for training specialists in the operation and use of small arms. The creation of the department was an important milestone in the development of military education, addressing the current needs of the Armed Forces. In its early years, the department operated with limited resources, but thanks to the enthusiasm and professionalism of its instructors, it quickly became a significant part of the personnel training system. From the very beginning, the foundation for scientific and practical activities was laid, which later became the department’s hallmark. Over time, the department expanded its scope, covering new types of weaponry, from small arms to artillery systems. The teaching staff actively worked on the development of educational materials and methodologies, many of which are still in use today.
At its inception, the department was headed by Colonel Vitaliy Vladimirovich Zinchenko, an experienced officer with extensive military service. He efficiently organized the work of the team. During this period, the department’s instructors included Lieutenant Colonels K.V. Shadrin and V.P. Titovich, as well as Majors V.P. Puspeshov and V.V. Ignatyev.
Reconstruction and Development Stages
With the advancement of military science and technology, the department continuously adapted to modern requirements. In 2004, the first major modernization took place, updating training equipment and establishing a missile and artillery armament cycle.
In 2016, the department received a state-of-the-art 
material and technical base. Specialized laboratories were created for studying ballistics, ammunition, and automated fire control systems. Special attention was given to the development of training grounds where cadets could practice shooting and weapon operation in conditions as close as possible to combat scenarios. A key development was the introduction of the Missile and Artillery Support Cycle, aimed at training officers specializing in armament services and commanders of artillery and air defense units. With this addition, the department gained a new status as a graduating department.
The next stage of development occurred in 2019, when the department actively integrated digital technologies into its training programs. Computer-based simulators, training systems, and virtual shooting ranges became an integral part of the educational process. This improved training quality, reduced costs for live-fire exercises, and enhanced safety in learning environments.
Pride and Achievements of the Department
The Department of Armament and Shooting rightfully takes pride in its graduates. Many of them have completed their training with honors and serve as role models for future generations. These specialists hold leading positions in the National Guard, the Ministry of Defense, the Border Service, the State Security Service, special forces units, and other law enforcement agencies of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
The department has also achieved notable success in scientific research. Over the decades, it has been a key contributor to significant developments in the field of armament. Faculty members have played a crucial role in designing new fire control systems.
Another area that has brought recognition to the department is its active participation in international conferences, exhibitions, and competitions. In recent years, department members have repeatedly won awards for their innovations, strengthening the authority of national military science.
Additionally, the department takes pride in its personnel, who serve as role models for younger generations:
Colonel R.K. Saifudinov was the absolute champion of the troops in sniper rifle shooting (SVD) from 2003 to 2021, as well as a champion and medalist in AK-74 and Makarov pistol shooting.
Colonel R.V. Groskop was a multiple-time champion and medalist in the Military Spartakiad and Troop Championship in Makarov pistol shooting from 2005 to 2022.
Many department servicemen have combat experience from the Afghan War, conflicts in the Caucasus, Tajikistan, and Transnistria. They have shared and continue to share their knowledge and combat experience with cadets through various training exercises, shooting practices, and live-fire drills.
Current Activities of the Department
Currently, the Department of Armament and Shooting is headed by Colonel Rinat Karimovich Saifudinov, a distinguished educator of the department. The teaching and training of cadets and students are conducted by experienced military personnel, including: Deputy Head of the Department: Colonel Marat 
Amanzholovich Musin, Head of the Missile and Artillery Armament Cycle: Colonel Denis Vasilyevich Nikitenko, Senior Instructors: Colonels Boris Vitalyevich Volkov, Yerlan Maratovich Akhmetzhanov, Senior Instructor of the Missile and Artillery Armament Cycle: Major Roman Alekseevich Kutnyak, Instructors: Lieutenant Colonels Denis Vladimirovich Redkin, Kuandyk Zhantiakovich Tulepov, Ruslan Yermekovich Tokushev, Askhat Serikbaevich Serikbaev, Shokan Ramazanovich Murtalimov, Instructor of the Missile and Artillery Armament Cycle: Major Miras Magzumovich Dosmukanov, Head of the Laboratory: Lieutenant Bakhtiyar Adilovich Kurmanguzhin, Head of the Training Facility: Sergeant 3rd Class Alexey Gennadievich Zaytsev.
Today, the department serves as a leading educational and scientific center, fulfilling a wide range of tasks:
Educational Activities: Training specialists in the operation, maintenance, and modernization of weaponry. Cadets study theoretical aspects and gain practical experience with small arms, artillery, and anti-tank weapons.
Scientific Research: Faculty members actively work on developing new teaching methodologies and improving their effectiveness and reliability.
Modeling and Simulation: The department integrates modern computer technologies into the educational process, enabling the simulation of combat scenarios and cadet training in a virtual environment.
Practical Training: Regular live-fire exercises and drills help cadets refine their skills under realistic conditions.
The department maintains close cooperation with leading defense enterprises in the country, participating in testing and implementing new weapon systems.
Scientific and Research Activities of the Department
Scientific work has always been a key focus of the department. In recent years, faculty members have achieved significant progress in the following areas:
Development of fire control systems: Innovations that enhance accuracy and effectiveness, especially in complex combat situations.
Research into new materials for training improvements: The introduction of these materials has significantly enhanced the quality of military education.
The department boasts numerous patents, hundreds of scientific publications, and participation in various international research projects. These achievements confirm its high status in military science.
The Department of Armament and Shooting continues the traditions established over decades and strengthens its position in military education and science year by year. By combining experience, innovative technologies, and professionalism, the department effectively trains specialists ready to face the challenges of modern combat conditions and contributes to the nation’s defense capability.