Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has dismissed Defense Minister Dauren Kosanov and appointed Aidos Myrzakhmetov as his replacement following the deaths of 14 servicemen during military exercises in the Mangystau Region.

The changes were announced on September 27, shortly after the tragedy in the Caspian Sea. Myrzakhmetov previously commanded Kazakhstan’s Special Operations Forces, according to pkzsk.info.

Tokayev met with the newly appointed defense minister immediately after the appointment and instructed him to strengthen the country’s defense capabilities, improve the combat readiness of the Armed Forces and enhance the military command system.

The president placed particular emphasis on military service safety, saying that protecting the lives and health of soldiers must be an unconditional priority for commanders at every level.

Other priorities include improving military training, developing defense infrastructure, modernizing weapons and military equipment, strengthening educational and morale-building work in the Armed Forces, and expanding social support for servicemen and their families.

Aidos Myrzakhmetov, 45, was born on August 12, 1981, in the Zhambyl District of Almaty Region.

He graduated with honors from the Military Academy of the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan in 2002 and began his career as a platoon commander. He later held a number of senior positions in Kazakhstan’s State Security Service.

In January 2024, Myrzakhmetov was appointed commander of the Special Operations Forces. He graduated from Kazakhstan’s National Defense University in 2025 and was promoted to major general in May 2026. He was also awarded the Aybyn Order, 2nd Class.

The tragedy occurred on September 24 during naval exercises off Kazakhstan’s Caspian coast. Weather conditions deteriorated sharply, and servicemen were swept into the sea.

Kazakhstan declared September 25 a national day of mourning following the incident.

Before the defense minister was replaced, Tokayev ordered the creation of a commission to conduct a comprehensive review of the situation within the Defense Ministry.

On September 27, Tokayev also posthumously awarded 14 servicemen the Aybyn Order for courage and selflessness demonstrated in the performance of their military duties. One serviceman received the Order of Aybyn, 2nd Class, while 13 others were awarded the 3rd Class.