During the Soviet–Afghan War, Dostum was commanding a militia battalion to fight and rout mujahideen forces; he had been appointed an officer due to prior military experience. This eventually became a regiment and later became incorporated into the defense forces as the 53rd Infantry Division.
During the Soviet-Afghan War, Dostum led a militia unit in fighting against mujahideen forces. He was promoted to an officer position due to his prior military experience. This unit grew into a regiment and eventually became part of the defense forces as the 53rd Infantry Division.