According to intelligence gathered by General Shepard, Vladimir Makarov graduated from the Frunze Military Academy with the rank of captain. He served in the Airborne Forces. Later, during his "career" in the special forces, he served in Chechnya with the rank of captain. It is believed that his team was one of the "toughest" during the campaign.

At one point, the UN conducted an investigation into "human rights violations." Vladimir Makarov was the first on this list. But the investigation into this case was terminated when he decided to leave the armed forces. This was explained by his pathological hatred of the West and the Russian government. After that, Makarov received military training in many terrorist organizations: human trafficking, money laundering, bombing of military/civilian facilities, murders, etc. At this time, Makarov drew the attention of the leader of the growing "ultranationalist party" Imran Zakhaev. This allowed him to be included in the anti-Western movement. Makarov and Zakhaev became partners.