Are you a fan of The Unit, Lone Survivor, Generation Kill, and Navy Seals? There is something truly fascinating about all the movies and shows that portray the dangerous life the special forces lead. However, it is important to keep in mind that Hollywood is fond of glamorizing and sentimentalizing reality. The reality is often less dramatic than what they show on the big screen and the small screen. Special Forces constantly undergo challenging training programs and handle terrifying situations on the field. Let us give our thanks to the men and women who constantly live in danger for the sake of their country. Take a look at the most fearless and fearsome troops on the planet.
British SAS
Now, there is a big chance that you are familiar with the British Special Air Service. After all, they are the elite of the elite. They actually have their roots in the Second World War. These days, they are better known for their key role in the aftermath of the Iraq War. We honestly cannot think of a better way to describe the undaunted British SAS than the phrase on their insignia: “Who dares wins”.
British SAS
Israeli Shayetet 13
You will find little information about the Shayetet 13 online since the country prefers to keep their activity confidential. However, we do know that this is the elite Israeli Defense Force. These troops have mastered Krav Maga, the military self-defense and fighting system. These tidbits are practically the only thing people know about the elusive unit.
Israeli Shayetet 13
Pakistan Special Service Group
When a country has threats of war coming from all directions, it is incredibly important to organize one of the greatest special forces on the planet. In 1956, the Pakistan Special Service Group was established. The training involves a 5-mile march in 50 minutes as well as a 36-mile march wearing full gear in 12 hours. There are eight battalions overall and we would not dare to cross any of them.
Pakistan Special Service Group
Taiwan Republic of China Armed Forces
The formidable unit was formed in 1924 and it has protected several of the island’s cities ever since. In the beginning, the troops were tasked to deal with land retrieval, but their roles have expanded. They currently function as the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Police of Taiwan.
Taiwan Republic Of China Armed Forces
Peruvian Armed Forces
You can easily distinguish the soldiers of the Peruvian Armed Forces because their faces have been painted to match their uniforms. Their main responsibility is safeguarding the independence of the country. They typically supervise issues of domestic security. It is also important to remember that they are a part of the Air Force, Army, Navy, and Joint Command.
Peruvian Armed Forces
Canadian JTF2
The Canadian JTF2 is an elite special operations force that serves with the Canadian Special Operations. They are primarily tasked with handling issues no one else can. Their training has prepared them to respond to all kinds of threats. They specialize in counter-terrorism, nuclear warfare defense, hostage rescue, and foreign internal defense. However, they have not really let the public in on the way training is conducted. The government prefers to keep it under the radar and we can’t blame them.
Canadian JTF2
US Delta Force
There are many important United States military arms and the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta is one such unit. Since 1977, the troops have carried out some of the most confidential international missions. However, we can’t tell you what the missions are since they are so secretive!
U.S. Delta Force
German KSK
The German elite force Kommando Spezialkräfte is composed of the country’s best soldiers from the combined armed forces. The members of this troop have all been handpicked and have graduated from 17 schools from different parts of the globe. Those who have made it to the KSK are normally posted to other countries for counter-terrorism missions.
German KSK
Serbian Gendarmerie
The Serbian Gendarmerie was established as a Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs extension. They are primarily tasked to safeguard the Ground Safety Zone. Aside from this, they also serve as disaster rescue teams and counter-terrorist fighters. In fact, their duties are so vast that they alone can keep the peace in multiple countries without receiving outside help.
Serbian Gendarmerie
Iraqi Special Operations Forces
The Iraqi Special Operations Forces is composed of approximately 18,000 soldiers. You can bet that it is a fearsome force to behold. Sometimes called the Golden Division, the troops are under the Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Service. Training is challenging since the members need to head into the most perilous places to contain and fight the notorious terrorist group, the Islamic State.
Iraqi Special Operations Forces
US Army Special Forces Snipers
Have you seen American Sniper? If so, you were able to take a peek into the life of a US Army Special Forces Snipers troop. It is one of the most elite combat units in the entire world. The first thing applicants must do is to take and pass the Special Qualification courses. We bet it must be hard, but the challenges do not end there. After all, these men and women are often posted in dangerous places to carry out life-threatening missions.
U.S. Army Special Forces Snipers
French Commandos Marine
The French Commandos Marine is definitely in a league of its own. It is rivaled by only a handful of other Special Forces units. They are one of the oldest and most skilled units you will find on Earth. The entire command is only made up of about 600 soldiers but they more than make up for it in quality.
French Commandos Marine
Russian Spetsnaz
We all know the superpower that is Russia, right? The Russian Spetsnaz, their armed forces, is one of the greatest you will ever find. The Spetsnaz once referred to special military units under the military intelligence service, the GRU. However, things have changed and it now includes all of the special forces units in the country.
Russian Spetsnaz
Irish Army Ranger Wing
The Irish Army Ranger Wing has a significant contribution to the country. The special operations and counter-terrorism unit can handle bomb threats all by themselves. The accomplishments of the elite unit are not only limited to Ireland as they have worked on peacekeeping missions for the EU, the PfP, and the United Nations as well.
Irish Army Ranger Wing
Indian MARCOS
MARCOS is short for the Marine Commando Force. Their motto is “The few, the fearless.” True enough, you do not hear about them often, though we guarantee that you should avoid getting into trouble with them no matter what it takes. Among other things, they are well-known for their excellent disguises. The unit is so under the radar that we know practically nothing of their activities.
Indian MARCOS
German Kampfschwimmer
The German Navy may only have one special-purpose force, though the German Kampfschwimmer will certainly impress you. Like the others, careful consideration has been taken into account in the formation of this elite team. It is difficult to qualify for the unit as the training includes running 5 km in 24 minutes, swimming 1 km in 23 minutes, and staying below water for a minute. The success rate is at 30%.
German Kampfschwimmer
French Special Forces
The French Special Forces have been working hard to counter and prevent terrorism in Europe since 1992. The missions focus on attacks that happen across the European continent. They are highly trained and always ready so they are who Europeans trust when there are attacks and threats.
French Special Forces
US Navy Seals
The US Navy Seals are the most popular and elite special force unit you will find. The soldiers endure years of rigorous training and endure the unbelievable tempo of the operations. Their motto is “Sea, Air, and Land,” which is fitting for the unit. When they are given a command, they will get the job done in no time.
U.S. Navy Seals
Australia’s SASR
The Australian Special Air Service Regiment was created to function as the British SAS in the land down under. They received some criticism in 2016 when they cut off the hands of rebels while they were in Afghanistan. They are currently in Afghanistan to do covert operations. Considering their skills and reputation, it is a good idea to stay far, far away.
SASR Australia
Russia’s FSB
The Russian Federal Security Service is the spiritual successor of the KGB. It is easy to see why the rest of the population fear them. They were granted the legal rights to kill targets both inside and outside Russia under the command of their leader, Vladimir Putin.
Russian FSB
Israel’s “Mistarvim” – Duvdevan
The Mistarvim unit conducts operations to deal with unsuspecting targets. They normally dress like Arabs to avoid standing out in any crowd. In disguise, they will then pounce on their targets. Once they have caught the enemy, they will then have the backing of uniformed troops. We bet those operations have been completely thought out for maximum efficiency.
Duvdevan
Poland’s GROM
The GROM of Poland is yet another reputable special force unit. They were key players in the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, and against the Islamic state. They have worked on hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, and perimeter protection. We would gladly leave our lives in the hands of these men and women!
Polish GROM
South Africa’s Special Task Force
The specialized police team of South Africa undergoes elite military training. South Africa’s Special Task Force are normally tasked to carry out missions that are too dangerous for uniformed cops. Their motto is “Shoot first, ask questions later,” which must terrify crooks. They are also skilled in hostage rescue, VIP protection, and robbery prevention.
South African Special Task Force
Estonia’s Special Forces (ESTSOF)
Estonia’s Special Forces AKA ESTSOF has displayed great skill and potential in special military operations. The training is rigorous, to say the least. Applicants need to survive extreme temperatures and sleep deprivation if they wish to pass. There are also marksmanship courses they need to take. As you can tell, Estonia’s Special Forces only want the cream of the crop.
ESTSOF Estonia
Brazil’s SOC
The Special Operations Command AKA SOC is a Brazilian anti-terror team formed to handle both small and large attacks. They are one of the most elite Special Forces Units on the planet. Did you know that they managed to put a stop to various terror attacks during the 2016 FIFA Soccer World Cup?
Brazil Special Forces
Italy’s Leatherheads
The Gruppo di Intervento Speciale (GIS) is better known as the Leatherheads. The team was formed as a specialized police unit. There are 150 troops led by the commander and spokesman Alfa. They have always been known for their skills and efficiency.
Leatherheads
South Korea’s White Tigers
The White Tigers received their name after the Olympics Mascot of the East Asian country. It was established after the tragic massacre during the 1972 Munich Olympics. There are 200 members overall. Their main mission is to conduct counter-terrorist operations in South Korea.
White Tigers
Netherland’s Korps Commandotroepen
This is one undaunted unit you should fear. The Korps Commandotroepen are more than capable of thwarting terrorists and sabotaging enemies. They specialize in humanitarian aid as well. There is no doubt that the Netherland’s Korps Commandotroepen is one of the best units in the world.
Korps Commandotroepen
Belgium’s Special Forces
From Bosnia to Zaire, the Special Forces of Belgium have launched missions in different parts of the globe. If you enlist in this unit, you need to possess three years of experience in the military, the ability to read a 100 km map in 48 hours, psychological fitness, etc. These are all important since the troops take part in all sorts of operations.
Belgian Special Forces
New Zealand’s SAS
Formerly called the Long Range Desert Group, New Zealand’s SAS are experts in demolition, navigation, weapon handling, etc. The unit only accepts the best of the best. To ensure that the troops have finely-honed skills, they employ a stressful and rigorous training.
New Zealand’s SAS
Indonesia’s Kopassus
The Kopassus are well-known for their ability to quickly and efficiently thwart terrorist attacks. The members are known for their fierce combat and disguise skills. The latter is important as they constantly change identities when they go on missions.
Indonesian Kopassus
USA’s Green Berets
The Green Berets made their first appearance back in the Second World War. They are also referred to as “Snake Eaters”. Considering their reputation, it is a highly appropriate name. The troops are concerned with foreign internal defense, direct action, unconventional warfare, counter-terrorism, and special reconnaissance. This is not the complete list as they also deal with plenty of other tasks!
Green Berets
Romania’s Special Forces
In 2009, Romania’s Special Forces were formed. It is one of the newer units on the list but the troops have managed to make a name for themselves already. They have been present in Afghanistan along with foreign special units from other countries.
Romanian Special Forces
Mexico’s GAFE
There are at least 100 members of Mexico’s GAFE, all of whom are well-trained in counter-terrorism. The unit is amphibious so they also aid the army when it comes to crossing the coastline. The members often train with American troops and received orders from the National Defense secretary.
Mexican Elite
Norway’s Forsvarets Spesialkommando
In 1982, the Forsvarets Spesialkommando was formed. However, the public only learned of its existence in 1994 when a local man hijacked an aircraft. The troops have been active in quite a number of missions inside and outside Norway. If you need an example, remember that they helped destroy chemical weapons in Syria.
Norway’s Elite
South Africa’s Recces
The Recess of South America follows this rather confident motto: “We fear naught but God.” The reconnaissance commandos have conducted operations that combat terrorists and criminals both locally and abroad.
South African Special Forces
France’s Groupe d’intervention de la Gendarmerie Nationale (GIGN)
The Groupe d’intervention de la Gendarmerie Nationale (GIGN for short) has 200 strong and talented soldiers trained to respond to hostage situations. After it was launched in 1973, it has helped over 600 people over the years! The troops are responsible for the rescue mission of the 1994 Air France hijacked plane controversy. The team entered the plane and killed off the four hijackers.
GIGN Operatives
Colombia’s AFEUR
The AFEUR of Colombia is actually a protection unit tasked with ensuring the comfort and safety of VIPs such as presidents and foreign dignitaries. Don’t be fooled into thinking this is all there is! AFEUR has also gotten involved in the war against guerrillas. They conduct many of their operations in secret so there is little to learn about them.
Colombia’s AFEUR
Nigeria’s Special Commandos
The Special Commandos of Nigeria is yet another classified unit we know very little about. They have managed to do impressive things over the years so don’t be surprised to hear people are scared of them.
Nigeria’s Elite
Denmark’s Frogman Corps
Frogman Corps have been established in 1957, around the same time they began hanging out with British SAS. They have received training in law enforcement as well as search and rescue operations. The members all undergo stressful training to improve their counter-terrorism skills.
Denmarks Navy Seals
Portugal’s Special Forces
Portugal might seem like a beautiful and peaceful country but that does not mean they do not require a special force unit. The Special Forces primarily handles counter-terrorism and deal with privacy issues in different parts of the European continent.
Portugal Special Forces
Britain’s Special Boat Service
As you might have guessed, the Special Boat Service of Britain takes care of sea-related problems. The SBS has participated in hostage rescues and sea wars over the years. The British Army is pretty strict about the selection of men and women for the unit. It is rather secretive and authorities prefer to keep quiet on what they do.
SBS In Action
The Ghost Army of World War 2
First of all, the unit is no longer being used. It was once the best and smartest military units you will find. The military garrison Ghost Army once contained inflatable tanks and fake uniforms. It worked out great if one wanted to instill fear in enemies! There was also a point when they led the Germans to attack the wrong location and helped bring the Allies victory.
Dummy Tank
Austrian Jagkommando
Jagkommando translates to “Manhunt Command”. This is also a perfect description of the special force as they specialize in counter-terrorism. Anyone who wants to become a part of it must undergo a rigorous training program. As a matter of fact, only a fifth of the applicants makes it to the team. This is necessary to ensure that only the best can make it to the Austrian Jagkommando.
Austrian Jagdkommando
Danish Hunter Corps
The Hunter Corps is made up of only 150 members and the public does not know even a single one of them. It was established all the way back in 1785 as a Royal Danish Army extension. It received its name since it used to be composed of hunters and woodsmen! Things have since changed as the special forces had been remade in 1962. They are now the long-range reconnaissance unit of the Scandinavian country.
Danish Hunter Corps