Action heroes are common in Hollywood, hunky men and hot babes seeing off baddies and putting the world to rights. It looks like exciting work but has very little in common with the real work done by elite armed forces around the world. From one devil daring death defying special force unit to another super charged elite commando, we take a look at the world’s most ferocious special forces. Get ready to be blown away by these awesome military units.
British SAS
Put together during World War II, a war in which the distinction between good and bad was easy to make ,the British SAS (or Special Air Service) began as a regiment in 1941 and through the
years has cemented it’s reputation as a force to be reckoned with. Today the unit is essential for dealing with terrorisism worldwide. Only the hardest fighters allowed here, surely with some hefty health insurance too!
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Members must go through rigorous training in the jungle to make the final cut, typically only about 15% make it through to the end.
Israeli Shayetet 13
A commando unit made of elite soldiers from the Israeli Navy, the Shayetet 13 is the Israeli Defence Force’s main special commando unit. Highly secretive, there is little information about these guys. Masters of the Israeli martial art, Krav Maga, to be a part of the Shaytet 13 you must sign up for four action packed years.
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All year round, no matter the weather, they are up at 4am to start the day’s training with a swim in the sea. You have to be made of seriously tough stuff to become a member of this commando.
Pakistan Special Service Group
Established in 1956, the Pakistan Special Service Group is the Pakistan army’s elite fighting unit, their training methods derived mainly from those of the US Special Forces ( a unit we’ll cover more of later). Formed of eight separate battalions and based in Tarbela Cantonment, the main focus right now for the Pakistan SSG is to fight back against regional Al Qaeda and Islamic State forces.
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In December 2014, a special team of SSG and light commandos tracked down and killed the Global Operations Chief of al-Qaeda Adnan Gulshair el Shukrijumahalong in Pakistan’s South Waziristan.
Austrian Jagkommando
It’s doubtful you could find more of an apt name for this special unit than Jagkommando, as it literally translates as ‘Manhunt Command’. Thwarting terrorism might be this well drilled force’s
speciality but that only tells half the story, as they are adaptable to whatever the task calls for. No more than 20% of those which begin the training make it through to the end as It takes a
special type to withstand the intensity required to join this elite unit.
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To become a member, candidates must go through the notorious sere training course which takes place partly in the Austrian alps. Surely not a fun skiing trip!
Taiwan Republic of China Armed Forces
Founded in 1924 and combining the Army, Police, Navy and Air Force this unit was notably assigned to reclaim all mainland China back from the People’s Republic of China back in the 1970’s. Maintaining the safety of China’s vast and tenable cities would be a much harder task without these soldiers watching over them.
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It’s current most important task is the protection of the islands of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu from a possible invasion by the People’s Liberation Army of the People’s Republic of China
(PRC), due to the ongoing dispute over Taiwan’s political status.
Peruvian Armed Forces
Active since 1821 and famous for their camouflaged faces, the Peruvian Armed Forces are linked to the Ministry of Defense and report straight to the Peruvian President. Acting as the military services of Peru, the Fuerzas Armadas del Perú combines the Air Force, Army, Navy and Joint Command.
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Headquartered in Lima, as well as being assigned with safeguarding the country from any threat they also take part in the country’s social and economic development.
Canadian JTF2
If you need a job done that nobody else can manage, then the JTF2 are the ones you call upon. From their base on the outskirts of Ottawa, Ontario this highly skilled special force respond to a
dizzying variety of threats, all the way from counter terrorism to nuclear warfare. As the Canadian government is super secretive about their special forces, there is not much information about them. What’s for sure is that health insurance is at a premium!
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Following the September 11 attacks, they were sent to Afghanistan to fight the Taliban in the war on terror. Reportedly, a mission so secretive it was even kept hidden from the Canadian Prime Minister!
US Delta Force
One of the most significant elements of the United States army and also referred to as the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment Delta is the US Delta Force. Extremely secretive, this unit is
assigned global influencing tasks which us regular joes have no idea about. Formed in 1977 and similar to the work of the British SAS, the US Delta Force is a highly qualified unit adept at hostage and rescue missions and utilized regularly around the world for counter terrorism operations.
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To be selected for this unit members must go through rigorous physical and mental tests, resulting in roughly 1 out 10 making it through the whole process.
German KSK
One of the most highly regarded special forces units in the world, you could probably power a whole city’s electrical grid with only the commitment needed to make it into the German KSK. Traiing is so meticulous, that to make the cut you have to pass courses in seventeen different schools worldwide. If you’re gonna make your living serving this unit, it really is advisable to top up on your health insurance!
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Initially only officers could apply to join the unit but since 2005 ordinary civilians can apply too, although they must pass an 18 month training course before the selection process commences.
Danish Hunter Corps
An extension of the Royal Danish Army these unnerving types are part of the Danish Hunter Corps. Although the unit was formed in 1961, it wasn’t until 1995 when they were first utilized in Bosnia during the Balkan War. An extremely small unit consisting of only 150 members, they are a rare sighting indeed and should you ever come across one, best to quickly head to your local lottery merchant and purchase a ticket.
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The selection process is extremely arduous and only about 10% make it through intense mental and physical training.
Serbian Gendarmerie
An extension of the Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Serbian Gendarmerie was formed in 2001. The fascinating thing about this elite force is that apart from military duties they also function as a non combatant entity and we don’t mean just taking cats down from trees. As much as performing counter terrorism measures they are adept as rescue units and first responders. It would also definitely be a bad move to rile these guys up. The Serbian Gendarmerie is made up of two units: the Special Police Unit and the Special Operations Unit.
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The unit consists of roughly 2800 members. Alongside the operational detachments posted throughout Serbia, the Gendarmery also has various specialized units: the Diving Unit and the Personnel and Infrastructure Protection Unit.
Iraqi Special Operations Forces
The Iraqi special Operations Forces were first established in 2004. Also commonly known as as the Golden Division, the unit is made up of almost 18000 soldiers and is managed by the Iraqi Counter Terrorist Service. One of the unit’s main missions involved patrolling the terrifying and extremely dangerous streets of Mosul where they also had to deal with the threat of Islamic State fighters.
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Created by coalition forces following the 2003 invasion, the unit became the first Iraqi force to enter Mosul during the November 2016 offensive. Following this operation, the Iraqi prime minister
declared the liberation of Mosul from ISIS.
US Army Special Forces Snipers
Immortalised in film following the release of the 2014 movie ‘American Sniper’, Chris Kyle is somewhat of a legend. Although he is not unique in the US Army Special Forces Snipers as
members of this elite force are known to be some of the hardest and most fearsome fighters in the world. Even after passing all of the Special Forces Qualification Courses, to become part of this elite unit you must still participate in even harder courses. Like leopards sitting in trees biding their time, these fighters can be deployed anywhere in the world, sat patiently alone just waiting to pounce.
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The Army Special Forces main objective is to train and lead unconventional warfare forces, or a covert guerrilla unit in an occupied nation. Apart from their military training they also acquire further skills such as languages and cultural knowledge relating to their specific mission.
French Commandos Marine
One of two entries from France in our top 10 and that’s not surprising as you really don’t want to get on the wrong side of these dudes. Apart from being one of the oldest special force units in the world, The French Commandoes Marine are also one of the most respected and highly skilled. Consisting of no more than 600 soldiers, they also go by the nickname of the Green Berets.
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Put together in the United Kingdom during World War II, the French Commandos were initially modelled on the British Commandos. To commemorate this, the beret of the French commandos is
worn to the opposite of all other French military units.
Russian Spetsnaz
Let’s be clear, Russia is most definitely a super power and it for sure has nothing to do with (cough cough) green energy or cheap health insurance. What it might be attributed to is it’s famous military might. Generally all special forces units under the umbrella of the Russian Military are referred to as the Russian Spetsnaz.
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A Russian term, Spetsnaz (meaning special) is commonly associated with the military police units of Russia, although other post-Soviet states use the term as well when referring to their military police.
Irish Army Ranger Wing
The Irish Army Ranger Wing was established in the ‘80’s when Ireland had many issues with local terrorism. Although tthis special force of hard men still kick bott when dealing with these sort of problems, they now have a wider remit. Their members come from the Irish Army, Naval Service or Air Force and are utilized in war zones all over the world either to help keep the peace or for combat purposes.
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The unit’s official name is Sciathán Fiannóglaigh an Airm translated into English as “Army Ranger Wing”. The word “Fiann” closely resembles the English word “Warrior” and refers to the ancient band of warriors known as Na Fianna in Irish mythology
Indian MARCOS
Never heard of these guys? No wonder. Almost no information is known about this highly secretive unit. Despite this obscurity, the Indian Marcos are a highly thought of special forces unit. Established since 1987, because of their distinctive disguises they often go by the name of the Bearded Army.
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Although proficient in combat on all types of terrain, the fearsome ‘Bearded Army’ are experts in amphibious warfare.
French Special Forces
Formed in 1992 following the end of the first Gulf War, the French Special Forces have a lot on their plate theses days as they are at the forefront of fighting terrorism at home and in the rest of Europe. Often the first to respond when acts of terror occur, the French Special Forces are constantly lert, highly skilled and extremely versatile.
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On top of the various operational units, the French Special Forces also keeps support staff, a research and development branch, and a large group of reservists who specialize in conducting civil
affairs operations.
US Navy Seals
With their rallying cry of ‘Sea, Air and Land’, their hardcore training and fearsome international reputation, the US Navy Seal are certainly deserving to be on our list. Sent by their government on
all types of missions all over the world, wherever the US Navy Seals go they are certain to get the job done.
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The roots of today’s Navy Seals can be traced back to 1942 during World War II, when the US Navy realised it needed a special force to survey and maintain positions on beaches before the assault on the designated.
Turkish Maroon Berets
During the 2004 Special Forces Competition, the Turkish Maroon Berets surprised everyone and beat the US Delta Force to come first. Additionally, they managed to defuse a bomb in 8 seconds,
which the Delta Force could only do in 14 seconds. Although it takes 3.5 years of rigorous training to become a part of the MB, any member can be deemed unsuitable and at any moment removed from the unit.
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All Maroon Berets members are recruited from high-rank Army officers who volunteer to join. With at least served 3 years as an Army soldier these are some awesome fighters indeed.
Australia’s SASR
Taking its cue from the same page as the British SAS, The Australian Special Air Service Regiment received some unwanted attention in 2016 due to the actions of some of it’s members in Afghanistan after allegations of torture surfaced which claimed some operatives cut some rebels hands off. The SASR are still in Afghansitan, working with other Special Forces, performing intelligence activites.
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Considered to have the most demanding entry test in the Austarlian Army and often left to their own devices in extremely harsh environments, these guys are certainly no cuddly Kangaroos.
Russia’s FSB
The natural heir to the infamous KGB and causing ripples of fear among Russian civilians, Russia’s Federal Security Force is no run of the mill special fighting unit. Ranging in activities from border control and foreign intelligence to anti terrorism and phone tapping. Since 2006 their remit has come to include the assassination of targets overseas should the all powerful President Putin give the go ahead.
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Having been accused of intimidating foreign diplomats and journalists with the use of all kinds of psychological techniques, if you are a budding diplomat you might want to ask to be stationed
elsewhere!
Israel’s “Mistarvim” – Duvdevan
Infamous for carrying out dangerous covert operations deep in enemy territory while disguised as local Arabs, Duvdevan’s mistarvim unit go about their business unnoticed until the final moment
when they swoop in and catch their target off guard. With strong support waiting in the wings, once the mistarvim reveal themselves they are swiftly joined by their back up force.
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Members go through intense training and are schooled not only in urban warfare but also must become fluent in Arabic and masters of disguise so as to blend naturally into the environment.
Poland’s GROM
Cast in the same mould as distinguished forces such as the British SAS and the US Navy Seals, Poland’s counter terrorism unit Grom have become a force to be reckoned with, having played an
important role in operations in Afghanistan, Iraq and in the fight against ISIS. Multi skilled, Grom’s assignments include fighting terrorism, hostage rescuing both from buildings and vehicles and backing up other forces when required.
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Due to their ability to perform precise covert operations and their extensive medical training, Grom members have acquired the nickname of the Surgeons.
South Africa’s Special Task Force
Skilled like an elite military unit, South Africa’s Special Task Force is actually a specialized police unit. They are on our list due to their defiant “action first, questions later’ school of thought. Adept at various jobs such as catching armed robbers, dealing with hostage situations and masters of all terrains, these dare devils are called into action when a task is deemed to risky for the regular police force.
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Since 2004 with the implementation of affirmative action policy, female members have also joined it’s ranks.
Estonina’s Special Forces (ESTSOF)
Although the Estonian Special Forces is a relatively new unit although they have already developed a strong reputation due to their alertness and military skills. Only those cut out for training in below zero temperatures, sleeping for only 2 hours a night and sniper training which goes on for days on end should get themselves involved with this unit. As is de rigueur with units such as these, it is unknown how many operatives are on the books.
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The main remit for this unit is to develop skills to deal with unconventional warfare.
Brazil’s SOC
Set up to deal with a wide variety of situations, from small to large scale operations and boasting one of the biggest special force units in the world, Brazil’s Special Operations Command is different to most other anti terror groups. Tasked with keeping the public safe during Brazil’s hosting of 2016’s FIFA Soccer World Cup, their remit included dealing with any terror attacks during the tournament.
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The SOC’s party trick is in dealing with guerrilla groups as they use methods to dismantle them by absorbing them into the main army.
Italy’s Leatherheads
Tasked with keeping G7 attendees safe during the Italian Presidency in May, Italy’s Leatherheads (actual full name is Gruppo di Intervento Speciale or a little simpler, GIS) consist of only 150
members, of which only it’s leader, Commander Alfa is permitted to address the public. They begun life as a police unit but were promoted in 2004.
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The unit’s main protagonist is it’s head figure, Commander Alfa, who has written books about the unit detailing it’s operations and what it means to be part of an elite force.
South Korea’s White Tigers
Due to the 1972 Munich Olympics massacre, South Korea made certain such an event would be avoided at the 1988 Seoul Olympics by forming their own anti terror group. Covering a wide array of
duties, the White Tigers have a personnel of around 200 members and accept into their ranks both men and women.
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Tasked with conducting urban counter terrorist missions, they are also first on the scene when responding to emergency situations.
Netherland’s Korps Commandotroepen
With their slogan of ‘Now or Never!” indicating that there’s no messing with these guys and their skill for operating globally whatever the conditions, you would have to be a very brave wanna be terrorist to take on the Netherland’s Korps Commandotoepen. Pros at working covertly behind enemy line and masters at sabotage, they also provide humanitarian aid when required.
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The unit’s roots go back to World War II. From the offset its mission has been to deal with tasks considered too complex and dangerous for the regular army.
Belgium’s Special Forces
Deployed all over the world, from Kosovo to Somalia, to Bosnia to Zaire, Belgium’s Special Forces spread their net far and wide. Only after serving three years in the military can you apply to be a part of this special unit. Training is extremely rigorous including a 100km map reading task to be completed in no more than 48 hours.
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Training as an Operator of the Special Forces is an ongoing process. It’s members are always involved with the honing of their skills and the development of new ones.
USA’s Green Berets
With Mission including counter terrorism, direct action, foreign internal defense, special reconnaissance and unconventional warfare, the Green Berets tentacles strech far and wide.
Nicknamed the ‘Snake Eaters’, they were formed during World War II and have been kicking butt ever since. Slithering their way across the globe, these snakes might need some anti human bite
medicine!
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Members form tight bonds with one another and their camaraderie is unique, as many of the force’s missions demand that the members rely heavily on each other for support.
Romania’s Special Forces
While this elite unit is relatively new due to being established only in 2009, don’t make the mistake assuming this fearsome group aren’t the finished article. Stationed in Afghanistan amongst other special forces, they are certainly the real thing as their infinite training regime testifies.
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In Afghanistan they are tasked with supporting, advising and training the Afghan police special forces.
Mexico’s GAFE
A tiny unit which members no more than 100, Mexico’s GAFE work closely with their American peers and are widely regarded as experts at counter terrorism. Reporting directly to the Secretary of
National Defense, they also boast an amphibious force that supports the army with protecting Mexico’s extensive coastline.
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Operating since 1986, their motto is Todo por Mexico which translates as ‘Everything for Mexico’.
Norway’s Forsvarets Spesialkommando
Norway’s Forsvarets Spesialkommando managed to remain a tightly kept secret until November 1994 when they were revealed to be the force behind the thwarting of an attempted airplane hijacking by a local Norwegian. More recent activities include involvement in the war in Syria, where they were tasked with destroying the Syrian government’s chemical weapon arsenal.
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The selection process for the unit lasts three weeks and includes intense physical and mental exercises with hardly any food or sleep. Only a select few of those who enter the course make it to the end.
South Africa’s Recces
Nicknamed ‘Recces” due to being reconnaissance commandos and armed with the slogan of “We fear naught but God” are the South African Special Forces. Apart from tasked with tracking down
criminals and terrorists both locally and across the globe, it is a little known fact that one of it’s snipers took out a target from over an incredible 2 kilometres away.
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To even be considered for selection, a soldier must meet extremely high standards, after which candidates must go through what is known as ‘The Ultimate Challenge’, one of the world’s hardest
Special Forces selection processes.
France’s Groupe d’intervention de la Gendarmerie nationale (GIGN)
Known for the audacious prevention of the Air France hijacking in 1994, unsurprisingly the main brief for France’s GIGN is rescuing hostages in extremely tricky and dangerous situations. Thwarting a plan to fly into the Eiffel Tower by storming the plane and killing all four hijackers, France GIGN showed rare composure and skill to expertly carry out their plan.
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Like several other special force units the GIGN formed after the Munich Olympics 1972 massacre, today the group numbers roughly 400 members.
Colombia’s AFEUR
Even if you don’t understand Spanish, Agrupon de Fuerzas Antiterroristas Urbanas has a pretty nice ring to it. Amongst other duties, the AFEUR also provides protection services for VIPS and American diplomats. Guerrilla activity has been rife in Colombia and although the AFEUR is a highly secretive unit, it is a well known fact they have been active in the war against the local militias.
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Surprisingly despite the decades long problem with guerilla groups and the need for such a unit to deal with them, it was only after the Dominican embassy siege in 1980, and the Palace of Justice
siege in 1985 that the unit came into being.
Nigeria’s Special Commandos
Nigeria’s notorious Special Commandos are most definitely deserving to be on our list due to their fearsome character.. Some might say that actually might be down to their ‘Shoot first, ask later’
reputation. Similar to other special forces in that there really is not much information out there about them, what we know for sure is that they have recently been spotted training with Pakistan’s SSG.
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One of their main challenges is having to deal with brutal terrorist group, Boko Haram.
Denmark’s Frogman Corps
A veteran group formed in 1957, like other special force units Denmark’s Frogman Corps have trained with the British SAS. Apart from well established counter terrorism prowess, they are also
tasked with dangerous search and rescue missions and regular law enforcement duties.
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The basic Frogman Course last nine long months. Between 500–600 applicants begin the course each year but less than a dozen make it through to the end.
Portugal’s Special Forces
Geographically adjacent to Spain on the most Southwestern part of Europe, you would think this picturesque part of the world has little danger to deal with. But it seems that apart from combating
piracy, they also deal in unconventional warfare, rescue missions and have joined the international fight against terror.
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Their rallying cry of ‘Mama Sumae’ means ‘Hear we are, ready for the sacrifice’ and is taken from a Bantu tribe in Southern Africa.
Britain’s Special Boat Service
Don’t try to find out what these guys are up to as the British Army will divulge zero information about their whereabouts. Suffice to say that Britain’s Special Boat Service deal with all things maritime. Referred to as the SAS’s sea faring cousin, their motto is ‘By strength and by guile’ and their pedigree certainly merits this rallying cry.
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On 12 May 2007, SBS troops stormed a Taliban compound in Helmand Province in Afghanistan and killed their senior military leader, Mullah Dadullah.
The Ghost Army of World War 2
Not operative anymore, or for that matter ever before either, The 23rd Headquarters Special Troops (nicknamed the Ghost Army) are widely known as one of cleverest special forces in military history. Created to sow confusion amongst the enemy, the unit never actually existed. It’s camp made up of fake uniforms and equipment, the sound effects of military movements blasting out of loudspeakers caused the German army to attack the wrong spot and hand victory over to the allied forces.
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A kept secret for more than 40 years after the war, they performed over 20 missions, their acts of trickery occuring extremely close to the frontline.
Korps Mariniers
From mountainous terrains to submarines, from snowmobiles to parachutes, the Netherlands Maritime Special Operations Forces (or the user friendly acronym of NLMARSOF) specialize in a
wide array of combat skills. Their slogan of Qua Patet Orbis ( ‘As Far As The World Extends’) takes on literal meaning as they can actually be deployed anywhere in the world within 48 hours.
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Founded all the way back on 10 December 1665 during the Second Anglo-Dutch War, the Korps were the 5th European marine unit to be formed.
Marinejegerkommandoen
Formed in 1953, when the need for a multitasking unit arose, the Special Operations Command or as they are more widely known, the MJK ae Norway’s naval special force unit. Boasting expertise in a wide array of skills including hostage rescuing, covert operations, direct action, counter terrorism and arctic and swampland warfare, there’s not much these guys don’t get up to. Extremely intense training means only a select few make it through. When whittled down to 8, the remaining candidates must carry heavy weights while escaping from the enemy’s clutches. Should they get
caught, they are then submitted to 36 hours of interrogation. Ouch!
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Regarded to be among the top special operations forces in the world, the Marinejegerkommandoen are one of a select few to be given the Navy Presidential Unit Citation, the highest unit award given by the United States to allied units.
1st Scout Rangers
More commonly known as the 1st Scout Rangers are the next gung ho gang on our list, the Philippine Army Special Operations Unit. Their extensive list of duties includes urban and anti geurilla warfare, jungle ambushes, sabotage, raids and close quarters combat. Operating out of their headquarters in Tanay Rizal, they gained international respect following their seizure of the Moro Islamic Liberation rebel camp in 2000.
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Established in 1950, the unit is modeled in two legendary combat forces, American Alamo Scouts and the US Army Rangers.
Särskilda Operationsgruppen
Formed in 2011, the SOG (Swedish Special Operations Task Group) are definitely one of a kind in one unique aspect. Training takes place in a secret multi story compound where the walls are lined with bullet absorbing material. Take that SAS! During peacetime they train and advice foreign units but when called upon they can deal in a variety of situations such as hostage rescue missions, intelligence gathering and high profile assassinations.
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It is of note that most SOG combat operations require a special set of skills which conventional forces or weapons cannot carry out, therefore the unit is of great importance to the Swedish Armed
Forces.
Naval Special Warfare Command
Though they are known as Navy Seals, the Royal Thai Navy’s special unit actually refers to the animal than to it’s US counterpart. Regardless, they were actually given a hand in their establishment by the US Navy Seals. Forming a type of ‘unit within a unit’ are the Thai Navy’s Seal unit who are experts in maritime counter terrorism. Rumours abound that during tense periods along the Thai border, the Underwater Demolition Assault Unit are nosing around, busy gathering valuable information. These skills have seen them recently deployed in East Africa, hunting down pirates in
Somalia.
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Furthermore, the Navy Seals recently participated in the rescue of the junior football team trapped in the Tham Luang Nang Non cave system
COMANF
Operating out of their headquarters in Rio de Janeiro and belonging to the Marine Corps Special Operations Battalion are Brazil’s Comandos Anfibios (COMANF). The COMANF are characterised
by the phrase Um Comanf é imbatível, dois são inseparáveis e três fazem guerra” which translates from Portuguese as “One Comanf is unbeatable, two are unseparable and three wage war”).
Amongst other skills this tough guys specialize in infiltration, counterintelligence, reconnaissance, mountaineering and rappelling.
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Some members are sent overseas to train with other special forces such as the Israeli Sayeret Matkal, the Spanish Special Operations Command and the French GIGN.
Canadian Special Operations Regiment
Set up to provide support for Canada’s Joint Task Force 2, the roving Canadian Special Operations Unit (known as CSOR) can also be utilized anywhere at home or abroad. Par for the course, they
specialize in special reconnaissance, direct action, diplomatic protection and counter terrorism.
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From the same family tree as the First Special Service Force (FSSF), the Canadian-American special forces unit that operated during World War II and earned the “Devil’s Brigade” moniker for its
daring night raids.
Finnish Border Guard
Apart from the ability to wield power with issues regarding immigration, unsurprisingly The Finnish Rajavartiolaitos (the Finnish Border guard) are tasked with securing the country’s borders. They also have further duties including maritime and search and rescues missions. Additionally, some of their equipment, such as helicopters maybe used bly local fire departments should the need arise.
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Although not tasked with keeping public order under normal circumstances, the Rajavartiolaitos has two platoons that are ready to assist the Police in unexpected situations in matters of crowd control and internal security.
Kommando Spezialkräfte Marine
Formed in 1955 after Germany were accepted into NATO, the German special marines, or as they are known, the Kampfschwimmer (Combat Swimmers) are the only special force in the German
Navy. The first set of recruits were made out of men with no ties to the Nazi party. Notoriously difficult to get into, recruits are required to pass strenuous physical tests to become a member of the
unit. These include running 5000 metres under 24 minutes and various challenging underwater tasks. It should be noted though, that most candidates drop out during training not because of the
physical hardship but rather the grueling psychological toll extracted.
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During training candidates must go through what is known as “hate week” when trainees are deprived of sleep. Meanwhile, the punishing physical daily routine continues.
1st Raider/Paratrooper Brigade
This Greek elite unit is more widely known as the Raider Forces. On their uniform is the unit’s crest, a winged sword epitomizing the unit’s “deadly, silent and swift” approach. As a homage to the World War II fighters of the Free Greek Special Forces, scrolled across their insignia is the slogan “Who Dares Wins”. This deadly fighting unit carries out a wide variety of operations including though not limited to guerrilla warfare, reconnaissance, and airborne missions.
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The original Free Greek Special Forces were known as the Sacred Squadron and were a precursor to today’s highly skilled unit.
Para (Special Forces)
Boasting the longest training programme in the world, the Indian Army Parachute Regiment requires three and a half grueling years to become a fully fledged member. It’s an ongoing process which stretches from basic to advanced training as trainees are taught everything from combat diving and survival skills to advance weapon courses and linguistic training. These skills will come to hand later as the unit handles a wide array of duties including direct action, hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, unconventional warfare and special reconnaissance.
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The commando has special ties to the United States Special Operations Command and the United Kingdom Special Forces and often perform joint training exercises.
Grup Gerak Khas
Formed in 1965, the GGK (short for 21 Gerup Gerak Khas – the 21st Special Service Group) are the Malaysian Army’s special forces unit. Their rallying cry is “Cepat Dan Cergas” which translates as
“Swift and Agile”. They came to international attention between 1968 and 1989 when they successfully managed to tame the communist insurgencies in the Malay jungle.
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Although they undertake a variety of missions involving guerrilla/anti-guerrilla warfare, sabotage and counter terrorism, their expertise lies in one unique skill – jungle warfare.
Japanese Special Forces Group
The SFGp (the Japanese Special Forces Group) was put together with the specific aim of deterring terrorist and guerrilla warfare on home soil. Recruits for this highly secretive unit are selected from the Japanese Airborne Brigade and their training takes place at their primary facility, the JGSDF Narashino Chiba camp. You’ll be hard pressed to see one of these guys as they hide their identities behind balaclavas and only reveal themselves once given permission by their commander.
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Due to performing a similar role, the SFGp is often referred to as Japan’s Delta Force. Coincidentally, their US counterpart also helped in the establishment of the Japanese unit.
Special Actions Detachment
An elite unit under the command of the Portuguese Navy, the DAE (in Portuguese they are called Destacamento de Acções Especiais) expertly deal in missions ranging from maritime counter
terrorism and beach reconnaissance to combat search and rescue. Of those beginning the selection process, only 5 to 10 percent will make the grade as it is extremely difficult to make your way into this higly selective special force.
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Training does not end there though, as DAE members continue to receive a number of courses throughout their service.
Sri Lanka Army Special Forces Regiment
Beginning life as a combat tracker unit in 1986, the Special Forces Regiment is one of 2 Sri Lankan Army elite forces. Don’t try to find out too much about them though, as hardly any official information has been made public about the recruitment process for this highly secretive unit. What is common knowledge is that apart from their eagle insignia epitomizing strength and bravery, it also symbolizes the unit’s capacity to zoom in and hunt down their target. Yikes!
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Amongst others, their main roles are believed to be Military Intelligence, Special Reconnaissance, Direct Action and Counter Terrorism.
Underwater Offence
Headquartered on the outskirts of Izmir along the Aegean coast are the Turkish Navy’s Underwater Offence special unit (SAT). Amongst others, their remit includes special reconnaissance, gathering military intelligence,, direct action, counter terrorism and visit, board, search, and seizure missions. Having developed close ties to the US Navy Seals, it is not surprising to learn that the two share similar structural and training methods.
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Recent activities include the 2011 hijacking of a small ferry named Kartepe. After negotiations failed S.A.T. commandos stormed the ferry and killed the lone hijacker and rescued all 24 hostages
unharmed.
This article originally appeared on our sister site: daily-stuff.com