President Donald Trump is heading to North Carolina on Friday to celebrate members of the special forces who stormed into Venezuela on the third day of the New Year and whisked away that country’s leader, Nicolás Maduro, to face U.S. smuggling charges.First Lady Melania Trump will also be making the trip to Fort Bragg, one of the largest military bases in the world by population, to spend time with military families.Trump has been hitting the road more frequently to states that could play key roles in November’s midterm congressional elections, including a stop before Christmas in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. The White House has been trying to promote Trump’s economic policies, including attempts to bring down the cost of living at a time when many Americans are becoming increasingly frustrated with Trump’s efforts to improve affordability.The president spoke at Fort Bragg in June at an event meant to recognize the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. But that celebration was overshadowed by his partisan remarks describing protesters in Los Angeles as “animals” and his defense of deploying the military there.Trump has since deployed the National Guard to places like Washington and Memphis, Tennessee, as well as other federal law enforcement officials involved in his crackdown on immigration. Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, announced Thursday that the administration is ending the operations in Minnesota that led to the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens.This time, Trump’s visit is meant to toast service members involved in his administration’s dramatic ouster of Maduro, an operation he has described as requiring bravery and advanced weapons.His administration has since pushed for broad oversight of the South American country’s oil industry. Next month, he plans to convene a gathering of leaders from a number of Latin American countries in Florida, as the administration spotlights what it sees as concerning Chinese influence in the region.The March 7 gathering can give Trump a chance to further press a new and aggressive foreign policy which the president has proudly dubbed the “Donroe Doctrine,” a reference to 19th-century President James Monroe’s belief that the U.S. should dominate its sphere of influence.
WASHINGTON —
President Donald Trump is heading to North Carolina on Friday to celebrate members of the special forces who stormed into Venezuela on the third day of the New Year and whisked away that country’s leader, Nicolás Maduro, to face U.S. smuggling charges.
First Lady Melania Trump will also be making the trip to Fort Bragg, one of the largest military bases in the world by population, to spend time with military families.
Trump has been hitting the road more frequently to states that could play key roles in November’s midterm congressional elections, including a stop before Christmas in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. The White House has been trying to promote Trump’s economic policies, including attempts to bring down the cost of living at a time when many Americans are becoming increasingly frustrated with Trump’s efforts to improve affordability.
The president spoke at Fort Bragg in June at an event meant to recognize the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. But that celebration was overshadowed by his partisan remarks describing protesters in Los Angeles as “animals” and his defense of deploying the military there.
Trump has since deployed the National Guard to places like Washington and Memphis, Tennessee, as well as other federal law enforcement officials involved in his crackdown on immigration. Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, announced Thursday that the administration is ending the operations in Minnesota that led to the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens.
This time, Trump’s visit is meant to toast service members involved in his administration’s dramatic ouster of Maduro, an operation he has described as requiring bravery and advanced weapons.
His administration has since pushed for broad oversight of the South American country’s oil industry. Next month, he plans to convene a gathering of leaders from a number of Latin American countries in Florida, as the administration spotlights what it sees as concerning Chinese influence in the region.
The March 7 gathering can give Trump a chance to further press a new and aggressive foreign policy which the president has proudly dubbed the “Donroe Doctrine,” a reference to 19th-century President James Monroe’s belief that the U.S. should dominate its sphere of influence.
As fans know, Teresa, 53, joined RHONJ during the show’s first season in 2009. Since then, her career has included stints on other shows, but she has also said in recent interviews that she wants to return to the show that made her a star.
The RHONJ star was recently on an episode of her Turning the Tables with Teresa podcast. She said, “Someone was asking me about retiring.” Teresa continued, “I’m like, I don’t even think about that. Like that’s something that I would never even want to do.”
She went on, “Because I feel like you get bored, and what are you gonna do every day? And it’s good to keep inspiring yourself and keep it moving and keep, you know, just always reinvent yourself and do new things. I don’t know, that’s what I’m all about.”
In other Teresa news, she recently posted a picture of herself with Luis. Someone commented, saying, “Who is watching your kids? The little one has to have someone home with her.” Jokingly, Teresa responded, “Our 4 dogs.” Another fan said, “I don’t know if this is you or Louie keeping us laughing on these troll comments, but keep it coming.”
Teresa Giudice and Luis Ruelas | Instagram
From there, Luis, 50, said, “Haters can keep hating. That’s what they do!! We will keep loving and living life. Kids are doing amazing, and so are the dogs.”
Special forces, also known as special operations forces, are elite military units trained for unconventional and covert missions critical to national security.
Throughout history, from the Roman era’s camouflaged ships and specially trained soldiers to the ninjas of Japan and the strategic naval intelligence operations during the Crusades, specialized forces have played pivotal roles in warfare.
These units are distinguished by their rigorous training, advanced weaponry, and notable achievements.
For example, the U.S. Navy SEALs’ BUD/S training is renowned for its challenging nature and low graduation rate, underscoring the demanding standards and exclusivity of special forces worldwide.
This list highlights the 16 most formidable special forces globally, chosen for their exceptional capabilities and contributions to their countries’ security interests.
Key Takeaways
9th Paratrooper, SSG, EKO Cobra, MARCOS, NZSAS, jTF 2, GSG 9, GIGN, JW GROM, Israel’s Sayeret Matkal and Shayetet 13, SASR, USA’s Delta Force and Navy SEALs, Alpha Group and SAS.
Elite units trained for covert, high-stakes missions with a history of specialized operations.
Undergo intensive training and are equipped with advanced weaponry, showcasing notable achievements.
Selection processes are highly challenging, exemplified by the Navy SEALs’ BUD/S training’s low graduation rate.
Funded within national defense budgets, focusing on specific missions, technological advancements, and training, with details often classified.
16. 9th Paratrooper Assault Regiment – Italy
Established: July 20, 1942
The 9th Paratrooper Assault Regiment “Col Moschin” stands as the pinnacle of valor and expertise within the Italian Army’s special forces. Inspired by the British SAS, this elite unit boasts unparalleled proficiency in operating across diverse environments and terrains according to Grey Dynamics.
Historical Roots: The regiment’s legacy dates back to the Italian Front’s fierce battles during World War I, where it was originally known as the ‘9th Assault Unit’. It earned its distinguished reputation defending key positions on Monte Grappa, notably Col Moschin, showcasing its military prowess.
Notable Missions and Deployments Abroad
Lebanon, March 1983: During the Lebanese Civil War, the regiment’s operators were deployed to Lebanon, marking a significant foreign engagement.
1990s: The “Col Moschin” Regiment undertook numerous missions in global hotspots, primarily under UN peacekeeping initiatives.
Battle of Checkpoint Pasta, Mogadishu, Somalia, 1993: This mission marked the first major foreign combat operation for an Italian military unit since World War II, where they faced off against local rebels.
21st Century Operations: The regiment has been actively involved in support, patrol, and training missions in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya, adapting to the evolving nature of global conflicts.
Italy’s Other Elite Forces
COMSUBIN: Italy’s Naval Special Forces, akin to the British SBS and US Navy SEALs, showcases Italy’s maritime special operations capabilities.
Special Intervention Group (GIS): Known for its exceptional marksmanship, the GIS is another cornerstone of Italy’s special forces, specializing in critical interventions.
15. Special Service Group (SSG) – Pakistan
Established: March 23, 1956
The Special Services Group (SSG) Pak is a prestigious arm of the Pakistani Army, created by merging the 17th and 19th Baloch Regiments in 1956. Initially formed with assistance from the United States Army, the 19th Baloch aimed to counter the Soviet Union’s expanding influence in Afghanistan and its vicinity as noted by Globalsecurity.
Training and Influence: The SSG’s early training and tactical approaches were shaped by the US Army Special Forces, reflecting a close operational partnership against Soviet forces during the 1960s and 1970s.
Key Missions and Deployments
1960s Operations: The SSG conducted successful reconnaissance and covert operations along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, marking its early engagement in regional geopolitical tensions.
Operation Gibraltar: A significant mission against Indian Kashmir that precipitated the Indo-Pak war of 1965, showcasing the SSG’s strategic impact on regional conflicts.
Counterinsurgency Efforts: In the 21st century, the SSG has played a crucial role in quelling insurgencies within Pakistan, particularly in the Balochistan region, demonstrating its adaptability to internal security challenges.
14. EKO Cobra – Austria
Established: 1978
EKO Cobra stands out as Austria’s elite police tactical unit, distinct from military forces and operating independently under the Ministry of Interior. Originating in response to security concerns for East European Jews post the 1972 Munich Olympics tragedy, EKO Cobra was initially known as GEK until its rebranding in 2002.
Key Operations and Capabilities
High-Profile Missions: EKO Cobra has been pivotal in executing critical hostage rescue and counter-terrorism operations, showcasing its strategic importance and operational efficiency.
Historic Aircraft Rescue: Notably, it is the world’s only police tactical unit to successfully conduct a mid-air hijacking rescue on October 17, 1996, marking a significant achievement in aviation security according to Issuu.
International Collaboration: The unit collaborated with Germany’s GSG 9 during the 2016 Munich shooting, demonstrating its role in international counter-terrorism efforts.
Austrian-Made Arsenal: EKO Cobra’s weaponry primarily consists of Austrian-made firearms, including Glocks and Steyr rifles, emphasizing the unit’s reliance on domestic arms for operational readiness.
13. MARCOS – India
Established: February 1987
MARCOS, also known as the Marine Commando Force (MCF), represents the pinnacle of specialized warfare within the Indian Navy. With an astonishing dropout rate of 98%, the rigorous selection process ensures that only the most elite candidates earn the MARCOS badge, highlighting the unit’s exceptional standards and training intensity.
Origins: The roots of MARCOS trace back to the 1950s with the formation of a combat diver unit within the Indian Armed Forces. Recognizing the need for a more versatile and capable force, the Indian Navy established MARCOS in 1986, initially bolstering its ranks with officers trained by the U.S. Navy SEALs and the U.K.’s Special Boat Service.
Key Operations and Deployments
Sri Lankan Civil War: MARCOS played a pivotal role in the Indian Peace Keeping Force, capturing strategic locations in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, during Operation Pawan and contributing significantly to efforts aimed at resolving the conflict.
Operations in Tamil Nadu and the Maldives: The unit has executed critical missions beyond Indian borders, showcasing its operational flexibility and strategic impact.
Border and Maritime Security: Currently, MARCOS is actively involved in covert operations along India’s borders, particularly against Chinese and Pakistani military threats. Additionally, they spearhead anti-piracy missions in the Arabian Sea and the Persian Gulf, underscoring their vital role in regional security.
Other Elite Forces in India
Para SF: Another esteemed special forces unit within the Indian Army, part of the Parachute Regiment, which includes airborne battalions. Known for their airborne assault capabilities, the Para SF is a key component of India’s special operations community.
12. Special Air Service (NZSAS) – New Zealand
Established: October 1959
The New Zealand Special Air Service (1 NZSAS Regt.) is recognized as the premier military unit within the New Zealand Defence Force, tasked with a wide array of critical missions including counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosives) defense, alongside other specialized operations.
Origins: The NZSAS was initially formed in 1955 to contribute to the Commonwealth’s military efforts during the Malayan Emergency. Despite a brief disbandment in 1957, it was reconstituted in 1959, drawing inspiration from the British Special Air Service in its structure and operational approach.
Key Missions and Deployments
South-East Asia Engagements: The NZSAS has a history of deployments across South-East Asia, participating in operations in Thailand (1962), Borneo (1965), Vietnam (1968), and East Timor (1999), reflecting its regional engagement and versatility.
Task Force K-Bar: As part of the multinational Task Force K-Bar in Afghanistan until April 2002, the NZSAS contributed significantly to the coalition’s special operations efforts, showcasing its capability to operate within international joint task forces.
Counter-Insurgency in Kabul (2009-2012): The unit’s involvement in counter-insurgency operations in Kabul highlights its adaptability to complex urban environments and its effectiveness in high-stakes missions.
Praise from General David Petraeus: The commendation by retired General David Petraeus in 2011 underscores the NZSAS’s instrumental role and exceptional performance in Afghanistan, including conducting high-risk arrests and weapons raids.
11. Joint Task Force 2 (JTF 2) – Canada
Established: April 1, 1993
Joint Task Force 2 (JTF 2) is the pinnacle of Canada’s special operations forces, known for its exceptional secrecy and expertise in counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and special reconnaissance missions. Formed in the early 1990s, JTF 2 was designed to address the evolving nature of global threats, operating both within and beyond Canadian borders according to Canada.ca.
Key Operations and Achievements
Haiti and Afghanistan Deployments: JTF 2’s operational history includes significant deployments in Haiti and Afghanistan, showcasing its global reach and operational effectiveness in complex environments.
Secretive Afghanistan Deployment: Following the 2001 American declaration of War on Terror, JTF 2’s deployment to Afghanistan was conducted with such confidentiality that it reportedly occurred without the direct knowledge of the Canadian Prime Minister, highlighting the unit’s covert operational mandate.
Rescue Operation in Iraq, 23 March 2006: A notable mission involved the rescue of three Christian Peacemaker Team members in Iraq, a collaborative effort with the British SAS and US intelligence agencies. This operation earned JTF 2 high praise from both the Pentagon and the British Foreign Office for its critical role.
Unconfirmed Operations: While not officially confirmed, JTF 2 is believed to have participated in joint operations with British special forces during the Libyan civil war in 2011 and was rumored to have been deployed to Kosovo in October 2000, indicating its involvement in key international conflicts.
10. GSG 9 – Germany
Established: September 26, 1972
GSG 9 (Border Protection Group 9) is a highly specialized tactical unit of the German Federal Police, renowned for its expertise in hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, and executing high-risk arrests. This elite unit is also at the forefront of developing innovative tactics and methodologies for such operations.
Formation: The tragic events of the 1972 Munich Olympics massacre, which resulted in the deaths of 11 Israeli athletes and a German police officer, highlighted a critical gap in Germany’s capacity to handle terrorist situations. In response, the German government established GSG 9 under the Federal Police to ensure preparedness for any future threats.
RAF Arrests, 1982 and 1993: The unit played a crucial role in dismantling the Red Army Faction (RAF), a far-left militant group, through the arrest of several key members in the 1980s and early 1990s.
2007 Terrorist Arrests: GSG 9’s apprehension of three suspected terrorists, along with a significant amount of explosives, further cemented their reputation for effectively neutralizing threats to national security.
Equipment: GSG 9 operators are equipped with a mix of German and American-made gear, ensuring they have access to the best tools for their critical missions.
9. GIGN – France
Established: March 1974
The National Gendarmerie Intervention Group (GIGN) is a premier tactical unit of the National Gendarmerie, part of the French Armed Forces. Formed in the aftermath of the 1972 Munich massacre and the 1973 Clairvaux prison mutiny, GIGN was created to address the urgent need for a specialized law enforcement unit capable of responding to organized crime, domestic terrorism, and hostage crises.
Capabilities: GIGN is celebrated for its rapid deployment and advanced combat skills in critical situations, with the capacity to operate globally. The unit has participated in over 1,800 missions, demonstrating its extensive experience and effectiveness in high-stakes environments.
Organization: The GIGN is structured into six segments, with the core assault component, the ‘Intervention force,’ comprising four platoons. Each platoon consists of twenty-four highly trained operators, ready to tackle a wide range of threats.
Highlighted Missions and Operations
Air France Flight 8969, December 1994: In a highly publicized and successful operation, GIGN stormed the hijacked Air France flight, neutralizing the hijackers and ensuring the safety of all passengers without civilian casualties.
Capture of Bob Denard, 1995: Collaborating with French Army and Navy special operations units, GIGN played a pivotal role in apprehending the infamous mercenary Bob Denard in the Comoros, showcasing its operational reach and versatility.
Operations in Afghanistan: GIGN has also been deployed to Afghanistan, contributing to policing and support operations, further highlighting its adaptability and global operational capabilities.
8. JW GROM – Poland
Established: July 13, 1990
JW GROM stands as one of Poland’s premier special operations units, falling under the Special Troops Command. Known globally for their exceptional skills, GROM operators are affectionately dubbed “The Surgeons” for their comprehensive medical training and precise operational execution. Drawing initial inspiration from renowned units like the British SAS, the United States Delta Force, and SEALs, GROM has developed its unique identity and operational capabilities.
Key Deployments and Missions
Public Recognition: Although established in 1990, JW GROM remained a closely guarded secret until its activities were first reported in 1992. The unit gained significant attention in 1995 following its inaugural major military engagement in Haiti, showcasing its capabilities on the international stage.
2003 Iraq Invasion: GROM played a pivotal role in the Polish contingent during the invasion of Iraq. The unit was tasked with securing vital assets and conducting counter-insurgency operations, demonstrating its strategic importance and effectiveness in complex conflict zones.
Operations in Afghanistan: In Afghanistan, GROM’s contributions were notable for their operational success and the crucial role they played in training the Afghan National Police. Their effectiveness in mission execution has been widely commended, further solidifying their reputation as a top-tier special forces unit.
7. Sayeret Matkal – Israel
Active Since: 1957
Sayeret Matkal, also known as the General Staff Reconnaissance Unit, is a cornerstone of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Established in the wake of the Qibya massacre and the disbandment of Unit-101, Sayeret Matkal was formed to fill the critical need for a dedicated special forces unit alongside the Navy’s Shayetet 13 according to Jewish virtual Library.
Role and Capabilities: Primarily an intelligence-gathering unit, Sayeret Matkal specializes in deep reconnaissance missions behind enemy lines. It is also tasked with high-stakes hostage rescue and counter-terrorism operations. Until 1974, Sayeret Matkal was the primary unit for domestic rescue missions, a role that shifted to Yammam, Israel’s National Counter Terrorism Unit, after its formation.
Highlighted Missions and Operations
Operation Entebbe, 1976: Perhaps the most famous mission attributed to Sayeret Matkal, Operation Entebbe showcased the unit’s extraordinary capabilities on the global stage. On July 4, approximately a hundred Israeli commandos, led by Sayeret Matkal operators, executed a daring raid on Uganda’s Entebbe airport. The operation successfully rescued over a hundred hostages, marking a significant triumph in the history of special operations.
6. Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) – Australia
Established: July 25, 1957
The Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) represents the pinnacle of the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) special operations capabilities. Known by nicknames such as “Snake eaters” and “chicken stranglers,” the SASR is a key component of the Special Operations Command. Its formation was inspired by the British SAS, adopting similar principles and gaining regimental status in 1964.
Background and Training: The SASR’s roots trace back to the varied special forces units of the Services Reconnaissance Department active during World War II. SASR operators undergo rigorous training to master covert surveillance and reconnaissance in small teams, as well as executing large-scale raids. Their skill set also encompasses specialist counter-terrorism efforts, training local forces, and conducting hostage rescue missions.
Key Deployments and Missions
Borneo (1965) & Vietnam (1968): Early deployments that showcased SASR’s capability in jungle warfare and reconnaissance missions.
Cambodia (1997), Kuwait (1998), & East Timor (1999): Participation in UN Peacekeeping missions, highlighting SASR’s role in international security and humanitarian efforts.
Afghanistan: SASR played a significant role in Operation Slipper and Operation Anaconda, contributing to coalition efforts against terrorism and insurgency.
5. Delta Force (1st SFOD-D) – U.S.
Established: November 19, 1977
Delta Force, officially known as the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta (1st SFOD-D), is the United States’ premier special operations force, renowned for its secretive nature and exceptional competency in handling high-value targets, counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and reconnaissance missions according to Military.com.
Foundation and Philosophy: The inception of Delta Force was inspired by Charles Beckwith, a visionary Special Forces officer who recognized the need for a highly adaptable and autonomous unit after serving with the British Army’s Special Air Service (22 SAS Regiment). Beckwith’s experiences during the Malayan Emergency shaped his proposal for a unit capable of executing covert operations with unparalleled precision and flexibility.
Training and Selection: Delta Force is known for its rigorous selection process, as highlighted by former operator Paul Howe’s recounting of the attrition rate during his selection course. Out of approximately 240 candidates across two classes, only 12 to 14 individuals successfully completed the grueling course, underscoring the unit’s elite standards and the exceptional caliber of its operators.
4. Alpha Group – Russia
Active Since: 1974
Nickname: Alpha Group (Alfa)
Alpha Group, officially designated as Directorate “A” of the FSB Special Purpose Center, is a premier counter-terrorism unit originally established by the Soviet KGB. Its primary mandate includes executing counter-terrorism operations and ensuring the security of Soviet and Russian leadership.
Current Role: Today, Alpha Group operates under the auspices of the Federal Security Service (FSB), Russia’s principal security agency. Known for their assertive and decisive approach, Alpha Group operators are among the most formidable in the global special forces community.
Notable Operations
International Engagements: Alpha Group’s operational history includes significant roles in Soviet military actions abroad, such as in Afghanistan, Lebanon, and the Baltic states, showcasing its capability to project power and execute complex missions outside Russian territory.
Domestic Counter-Terrorism: Within Russia, Alpha Group has been pivotal in responding to major terrorist incidents. Notably, it was involved in the resolution of the Moscow theater hostage crisis in 2002 and the Beslan school siege in 2004, among other critical operations. These high-stakes missions have tested and proven the unit’s operational readiness and effectiveness in handling severe crisis situations.
3. Shayetet 13 – Israel’s Naval Commandos
Active Since: 1964
Nickname: HaShayetet (The Flotilla)
Shayetet 13 is the elite special forces unit of the Israeli Navy, renowned for its expertise in maritime operations, including counter-insurgency, sabotage, search and rescue, and reconnaissance missions. Established in the mid-1960s, it ranks among the world’s most prestigious special operations forces, comparable to the British Special Boat Service (SBS) and the United States Navy SEALs.
Key Operations and Historical Impact
Early Engagements: Since its inception, Shayetet 13 has played a pivotal role in Israel’s military history, participating in critical conflicts such as the Six-Day War (1967) and the War of Attrition. Its collaboration with Sayeret Matkal to counter Egyptian forces underscores its strategic importance in regional security.
1973 Raid on Lebanon: As part of Operation “Wrath of God,” Shayetet 13 conducted a daring raid in Lebanon in 1973, targeting high-ranking members of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and Black September. This operation was in direct response to the 1972 Munich Massacre, highlighting Shayetet 13’s role in Israel’s counter-terrorism efforts and its ability to execute complex missions beyond its borders.
2. Navy SEALs – United States
Active Since: January 1, 1962
Nickname: “The Teams”
The United States Navy SEALs represent the pinnacle of maritime special operations, forming an integral part of the Naval Special Warfare Command and the United States Special Operations Command. With origins dating back to World War II, the SEALs were formally established during the Vietnam War, marking the advent of a new era in special operations capabilities.
Key Deployments and Achievements
Global Presence: Over the past several decades, Navy SEALs have been deployed in numerous conflict zones around the world, including the significant role they played during the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Their versatility and capability to operate in sea, air, and land environments make them a vital asset in a wide range of military operations.
Operation Neptune Spear: Perhaps the most renowned mission undertaken by the SEALs was Operation Neptune Spear in 2011, which resulted in the elimination of Osama bin Laden. This operation underscored the SEALs’ precision, skill, and effectiveness in executing high-stakes missions against global terror threats.
Training and Preparation
The training regimen for Navy SEAL candidates is famously rigorous, designed to push individuals to their physical and mental limits. The selection process includes over a year of intense training, culminating in the notorious “Hell Week,” which is known for its extreme physical and psychological challenges. Only the most resilient and capable candidates emerge as SEALs, ready to undertake some of the most demanding tasks in the military.
1. Special Air Service (SAS) – United Kingdom
Nickname: “The Regiment”
Role: Counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, special operations
The Special Air Service (SAS) stands as one of the most prestigious and effective special forces units globally, with its roots stretching back to 1941. Known for its rigorous selection process, exceptional training, and versatility in operations, the SAS has set the standard for special operations forces worldwide.
Structure and Organization
The SAS comprises three main units:
22 SAS Regiment: The regular unit that forms the core of the SAS, consisting of four active squadrons: A, B, D, and G. Each squadron is made up of approximately 65 men, divided into four troops, with each troop specializing in a particular aspect of warfare and supported by a headquarters section led by a captain.
21 SAS (Artists) (R) and 23 SAS: These are reserve units that support the regular regiment in various capacities, providing additional manpower and specialized skills as needed.
Notable Deployments
War in Afghanistan: The SAS has been instrumental in numerous operations during the conflict in Afghanistan, including the successful joint rescue mission, codenamed Jubilee, with U.S. special forces in Badakhshan Province. This operation highlighted the SAS’s capability to execute complex missions with precision and without casualties.
Legacy and Influence
The SAS’s methodologies and operational philosophy have profoundly influenced the formation and development of other special forces units around the world. The American Delta Force, for example, was modeled after the SAS, adopting many of its training regimes, tactics, and organizational structures. This global influence underscores the SAS’s role as a benchmark for special operations excellence.
FAQ
What Defines the Lethality of Special Forces Units?
The term “lethal” in the context of Special Forces units is indicative of their proficiency in executing high-risk operations successfully. Several factors contribute to a unit’s lethality:
High Mission Success Rate: A consistent track record of successful operations underlines a unit’s effectiveness.
Rigorous and Specialized Training: Intense preparation in a variety of combat and survival skills ensures operatives can handle any situation.
Versatility in Operation Environments: The ability to operate seamlessly across diverse settings, from urban landscapes to isolated terrains.
Stealth and Intelligence Gathering: Expertise in covert operations and the ability to conduct reconnaissance without detection.
Advanced Technological Support: Access to cutting-edge technology for surveillance, communication, and weaponry enhances operational capabilities.
What Are Requirements for Special Forces?
Entry into Special Forces is governed by stringent criteria, varying across different nations and military branches, yet some commonalities exist:
Physical Fitness and Psychological Stability: Candidates must pass demanding physical tests and psychological evaluations to demonstrate their readiness.
Continuous Training and Skill Development: Ongoing physical conditioning and tactical training are essential to keep abreast of evolving combat techniques and technologies.
Mental Toughness and Team Spirit: Resilience, the ability to adapt, and a strong commitment to teamwork are indispensable traits for candidates.
Health and Medical Standards: Aspirants must meet specific health criteria to ensure they are fit for the rigors of Special Forces duties.
How Special Forces are Funded?
The financial backing for Special Forces is a segment of a nation’s overall defense budget, influenced by strategic priorities and security policies. Funding allocations may be directed towards:
Mission-Specific Needs: Resources may be increased for particular operations or to enhance capabilities in strategic areas.
Technological and Tactical Advancements: Investments in state-of-the-art communication systems, surveillance technologies, and advanced weaponry are crucial.
Training Programs: Funding supports rigorous training regimes to maintain the elite status of Special Forces operatives.
Bottom Line
The world’s most formidable special forces units, from Italy’s 9th Paratrooper Assault Regiment to the UK’s Special Air Service, embody the pinnacle of military excellence.
These elite teams, known for their rigorous training, advanced weaponry, and significant contributions to global security, continue to set the standard for special operations worldwide.
Their storied histories, marked by pivotal roles in major conflicts and high-stakes missions, underscore their critical importance to national and international security.
Afghan special forces soldiers who fought alongside American troops and then fled to Iran after the chaotic U.S. withdrawal last year are now being recruited by the Russian military to fight in Ukraine, three former Afghan generals told The Associated Press.
They said the Russians want to attract thousands of the former elite Afghan commandos into a “foreign legion” with offers of steady, $1,500-a-month payments and promises of safe havens for themselves and their families so they can avoid deportation home to what many assume would be death at the hands of the Taliban.
“They don’t want to go fight — but they have no choice,” said one of the generals, Abdul Raof Arghandiwal, adding that the dozen or so commandos in Iran with whom he has texted fear deportation most. “They ask me, ‘Give me a solution? What should we do? If we go back to Afghanistan, the Taliban will kill us.’”
Arghandiwal said the recruiting is led by the Russian mercenary force Wagner Group. Another general, Hibatullah Alizai, the last Afghan army chief before the Taliban took over, said the effort is also being helped by a former Afghan special forces commander who lived in Russia and speaks the language.
The Russian recruitment follows months of warnings from U.S. soldiers who fought with Afghan special forces that the Taliban was intent on killing them and that they might join with U.S. enemies to stay alive or out of anger with their former ally.
A GOP congressional report in August specifically warned of the danger that the Afghan commandos — trained by U.S. Navy SEALs and Army Green Berets — could end up giving up information about U.S. tactics to the Islamic State group, Iran or Russia — or fight for them.
“We didn’t get these individuals out as we promised, and now it’s coming home to roost,” said Michael Mulroy, a retired CIA officer who served in Afghanistan, adding that the Afghan commandos are highly skilled, fierce fighters. “I don’t want to see them in any battlefield, frankly, but certainly not fighting the Ukrainians.”
Mulroy was skeptical, however, that Russians would be able to persuade many Afghan commandos to join because most he knew were driven by the desire to make democracy work in their country rather than being guns for hire.
AP was investigating the Afghan recruiting when details of the effort were first reported by Foreign Policy magazine last week based on unnamed Afghan military and security sources. The recruitment comes as Russian forces reel from Ukrainian military advances and Russian President Vladimir Putin pursues a sputtering mobilization effort, which has prompted nearly 200,000 Russian men to flee the country to escape service.
Russia’s Defense Ministry did not respond to a request for comment. A spokesman for Yevgeny Prigozhin, who recently acknowledged being the founder of the Wagner Group, dismissed the idea of an ongoing effort to recruit former Afghan soldiers as “crazy nonsense.”
The U.S. Defense Department also didn’t reply to a request for comment, but a senior official suggested the recruiting is not surprising given that Wagner has been trying to sign up soldiers in several other countries.
It’s unclear how many Afghan special forces members who fled to Iran have been courted by the Russians, but one told the AP he is communicating through the WhatsApp chat service with about 400 other commandos who are considering offers.
He said many like him fear deportation and are angry at the U.S. for abandoning them.
“We thought they might create a special program for us, but no one even thought about us,” said the former commando, who requested anonymity because he fears for himself and his family. “They just left us all in the hands of the Taliban.”
The commando said his offer included Russian visas for himself as well as his three children and wife who are still in Afghanistan. Others have been offered extensions of their visas in Iran. He said he is waiting to see what others in the WhatsApp groups decide but thinks many will take the deal.
U.S. veterans who fought with Afghan special forces have described to the AP nearly a dozen cases, none confirmed independently, of the Taliban going house to house looking for commandos still in the country, torturing or killing them, or doing the same to family members if they are nowhere to be found.
Human Rights Watch has said more than 100 former Afghan soldiers, intelligence officers and police were killed or forcibly “disappeared” just three months after the Taliban took over despite promises of amnesty. The United Nations in a report in mid-October documented 160 extrajudicial killings and 178 arrests of former government and military officials.
The brother of an Afghan commando in Iran who has accepted the Russian offer said Taliban threats make it difficult to refuse. He said his brother had to hide for three months after the fall of Kabul, shuttling between relatives’ houses while the Taliban searched his home.
“My brother had no other choice other than accepting the offer,” said the commando’s brother, Murad, who would only give his first name because of fear the Taliban might track him down. “This was not an easy decision for him.”
Former Afghan army chief Alizai said much of the Russian recruiting effort is focused on Tehran and Mashhad, a city near the Afghan border where many have fled. None of the generals who spoke to the AP, including a third, Abdul Jabar Wafa, said their contacts in Iran know how many have taken up the offer.
“You get military training in Russia for two months, and then you go to the battle lines,” read one text message a former Afghan soldier in Iran sent to Arghandiwal. “A number of personnel have gone, but they have lost contact with their families and friends altogether. The exact statistics are unclear.”
An estimated 20,000 to 30,000 Afghan special forces fought with the Americans during the two-decade war, and only a few hundred senior officers were airlifted out when the U.S. military withdrew from Afghanistan. Since many of the Afghan commandos did not work directly for the U.S. military, they were not eligible for special U.S. visas.
“They were the ones who fought to the really last minute. And they never, never, never talked to the Taliban. They never negotiated,” Alizai said. “Leaving them behind is the biggest mistake.”
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Condon reported from New York. AP writers Rahim Faiez in Islamabad and Tara Copp in Washington contributed to this report.
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Contact AP’s global investigative team at Investigative@ap.org.
