Top 50 Special Forces in The World (2024)

Special forces represent the epitome of military excellence, formed to excel in perilous and impactful missions. These elite units undertake a wide range of responsibilities, including counterterrorism, hostage rescue, direct action, and other classified operations.

Some of the top special forces in the world include US Navy SEAL, British SAS, Huntsmen Corps, French Special Forces, Irish Army Rangers, Australian SASR, MARSOC, Canadian Counter-Terrorist Group JTF2, Russian Special Forces, Dutch Special Forces, SBS and Delta Force.

Top 50 Special Forces in The World

1. US Navy SEAL

The US Navy SEALs are renowned worldwide for their exceptional training and ability to operate in extreme conditions. Established in 1962, they have a rich history of successful operations.

SEALs excel in sea, air, and land operations, conducting missions such as counterterrorism, reconnaissance, and hostage rescue. Their training is rigorous and demanding, producing highly skilled operatives making them top the list of the top special forces in the world.

Notable achievements include the successful mission to eliminate Osama bin Laden and the rescue of Captain Richard Phillips from Somali pirates. The SEALs’ reputation as one of the most elite special forces units is well-deserved, with their unwavering commitment to excellence and unmatched expertise in unconventional warfare.

2. British SAS

The British Special Air Service (SAS) is one of the world’s most renowned special forces units. Established in 1941, their origins lie in World War II. The SAS specializes in counterterrorism, hostage rescue, and covert operations.

Known for their exceptional combat skills, adaptability, and resilience, SAS operators undergo grueling training to prepare for high-risk missions.

Their accomplishments include the famous storming of the Iranian Embassy in 1980 and numerous successful operations during conflicts worldwide. The SAS is highly regarded for their professionalism, strategic thinking, and ability to operate in complex and hostile environments.

3. Danish Special Forces

The Huntsmen Corps is the Danish Special Forces unit responsible for conducting specialized military operations. Established in 1961, their primary tasks include counterterrorism, reconnaissance, and direct action missions. The Corps has a distinguished history, including operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Their training emphasizes mental and physical endurance, marksmanship, and specialized skills such as parachuting and combat diving. With a reputation for professionalism, discipline, and adaptability, the Huntsmen Corps is a small but highly effective special forces unit.

4. French Special Forces

The French Special Forces, collectively known as “Forces Spéciales,” encompass several elite units within the French Armed Forces. These include the Army Special Forces, Naval Commandos, and Air Force Special Operations Command.

The French Special Forces have a storied history, with their origins dating back to World War II. They are known for their versatility, in conducting missions ranging from counterterrorism to unconventional warfare. Notable achievements include successful operations in Mali, Somalia, and the Sahel region.

Their training focuses on combat proficiency, physical fitness, and language skills to operate in diverse environments. The French Special Forces’ reputation for excellence and operational effectiveness makes them a formidable presence on the global stage.

5. Shayetet 13 (Israeli Special Forces)

Shayetet 13 is the elite naval commando unit of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Established in 1949, they specialize in maritime counterterrorism, sabotage, and intelligence gathering.

Shayetet 13 operators undergo rigorous training that includes combat diving, parachuting, and close-quarters combat. They have a remarkable history of successful operations, including the famous raid on Entebbe Airport in 1976 to rescue hostages held by terrorists.

Shayetet 13 is recognized for its daring, precision, and ability to operate covertly. Their expertise in maritime warfare and counterterrorism has made them a vital component of Israel’s national security.

6. Irish Army Rangers

The Irish Army Rangers, also known as the Army Ranger Wing (ARW), is the elite special forces unit of the Irish Defense Forces. Established in 1980, the ARW has a rich history of excellence and professionalism. They undergo rigorous training in various disciplines, including reconnaissance, counter-terrorism, and unconventional warfare.

The ARW has been involved in numerous peacekeeping missions, including in countries like Lebanon, Somalia, and East Timor. Their notable accomplishments include successful hostage rescues, intelligence gathering, and providing security for high-profile events. Their expertise in counter-terrorism operations is highly regarded.

7. Australian SASR

The Australian Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) is Australia’s premier special forces unit. Established during World War II, the SASR has a distinguished history of service. They are highly trained in specialized warfare techniques, including counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and direct action operations.

The SASR has played vital roles in international conflicts, such as the Vietnam War, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Their accomplishments include long-range patrols, precision strikes, and intelligence gathering. The SASR is known for their exceptional physical and mental capabilities, making them a formidable force.

8. MARSOC

The United States Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) is the special operations component of the U.S. Marine Corps. Established in 2006, MARSOC is relatively new but has quickly gained a reputation for its effectiveness and adaptability.

MARSOC operators receive extensive training in unconventional warfare, counter-insurgency, and direct action missions. They have been actively involved in the Global War on Terrorism, conducting high-risk operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. Their accomplishments include successful raids, intelligence gathering, and training local forces.

9. Canadian Counter-Terrorist Group JTF2

Joint Task Force 2 (JTF2) is Canada’s elite counter-terrorism unit. Established in 1993, JTF2 is known for its high level of skill and professionalism. Their primary focus is counter-terrorism operations, including hostage rescue and sensitive site exploitation.

JTF2 operators undergo intensive training in close-quarters battle, marksmanship, and specialized tactics. They have participated in international missions, including Afghanistan, where they played a vital role in combatting terrorism. JTF2’s accomplishments include successful hostage rescues, intelligence gathering, and providing specialized security.

10. Russian Special Forces (Spetsnaz)

Spetsnaz is the umbrella term for various special forces units within the Russian military and security agencies. These units have a long history dating back to the Soviet era. The Spetsnaz are known for their toughness, versatility, and ability to operate in extreme conditions.

Spetsnaz operators receive rigorous training in combat skills, survival, and unconventional warfare. They have been involved in a wide range of operations, including counter-terrorism, intelligence gathering, and special reconnaissance. Spetsnaz units have been deployed in conflicts such as Chechnya and Ukraine, showcasing their combat effectiveness and proficiency.

11. Dutch Special Forces

The Dutch Special Forces are known for their exceptional skills and operational capabilities. Established in 2005, their history dates back to World War II when Dutch soldiers served in various elite units. The Dutch Special Forces comprise several specialized units, including the Korps Commandotroepen (KCT) and the Maritime Special Operations Forces (MARSOF).

These forces have earned a reputation for their expertise in counterterrorism, special reconnaissance, and direct action missions. They have contributed significantly to international peacekeeping efforts and combat operations in Afghanistan and Mali. The Dutch Special Forces’ rigorous selection process and intensive training ensure that only the most skilled and dedicated soldiers join their ranks.

12. United Kingdom SBS (Special Boat Service)

The SBS is the elite special forces unit of the British Royal Navy. Established during World War II, the SBS specializes in maritime operations and counterterrorism. They are highly trained in conducting amphibious assaults, reconnaissance, sabotage, and hostage rescue missions.

The SBS has an impressive history of successful operations, including the Falklands War, Gulf War, and Afghanistan conflict. They are known for their versatility and ability to operate in diverse environments. The SBS undergoes extensive training, emphasizing navigation, combat diving, parachuting, and close-quarter battle techniques.

13. US Delta Force

Delta Force, officially known as the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta, is a highly secretive and elite special operations unit of the United States Army. Formed in the 1970s, Delta Force specializes in counterterrorism and hostage rescue missions.

Delta Force has been involved in numerous high-profile operations, such as the rescue of hostages in Operation Eagle Claw and the capture of Saddam Hussein. Their operators are selected from the U.S. Army Special Forces, Rangers, and other elite units. They undergo rigorous training in marksmanship, explosives, hand-to-hand combat, and mission planning.

14. Belgian Special Forces Group

The Belgian Special Forces Group (SFG) is a unit within the Belgian Armed Forces renowned for its capabilities in unconventional warfare and counterterrorism. Established in 1992, the SFG is highly trained and equipped to handle a range of missions, including hostage rescue, intelligence gathering, and direct action operations.

The SFG has participated in various international missions, demonstrating its expertise and professionalism. They have been deployed in Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq, contributing to stability and security. The SFG’s soldiers undergo demanding training in advanced firearms, close combat techniques, and specialized skills required for their diverse operational roles.

15. Norwegian MJK (Marinejegerkommandoen)

The Norwegian MJK, translated as the Marinejegerkommandoen, is the elite special forces unit of the Norwegian Navy. Established in 1953, the MJK specializes in maritime operations and unconventional warfare. It is one of the top special forces in the world.

The MJK has a storied history of successful operations and has gained recognition as one of the world’s most proficient special forces. They have been involved in counterterrorism operations, intelligence gathering, and direct action missions. The MJK’s selection process is rigorous, and their training focuses on combat diving, amphibious operations, Arctic warfare, and long-range reconnaissance.

Others are:

• Swiss Army Special Forces (DRA10)
• Greek EKAM (Special Anti-Terrorist Unit)
• French Commando Marine
• Norwegian FSK
• New Zealand Special Forces
• Kopassus (Indonesian Special Forces Command)
• 1st Special Operations Battalion “Vulturii” (Romania)
• Serbian Gendarmerie
• Austrian special forces: Jagdkommando
• German Kommando Spezialkräfte
• Irish Óglaigh na hÉireann
• ROC (Taiwan) Special Forces
• Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service
• Republic of Korea Marine Corps (ROKMC)
• US Joint Special Operations Command
• Albanian Armed Forces
• Ukrainian Special Operations Forces
• Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Special Task Force Command
• Spanish Mando Conjunto de Operaciones Especiales
• Russia Counteraction Underwater Diversionary Forces and Facilities (PDSS)
• Turkish Air Force
• Pakistan SSG
• Brazilian BOPE (Special Police Operations Battalion)
• Republic of Korea Army Special Warfare Command (“Black Berets”)
• Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force
• Italian 9th Parachute Assault Regiment “Col Moschin”
• Portuguese Commandos
• Finnish Army Special Forces
• Argentine Special Operations Forces Grouping
• Egyptian El-Sa’ka Forces
• Malaysian Grup Gerak Khas (GGK)
• Singaporean Naval Diving Unit (NDU)
• South African Special Forces Brigade (Recces)
• Special Operations Group (Sweden)
• Scotland Black Watch

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Conclusion

The top special forces in the world embody the indomitable spirit of human determination, surmounting challenges to achieve the unimaginable. They stand at the pinnacle of military prowess, driven by an unwavering commitment to safeguard their nations and citizens.

In contemporary times, special forces have diversified their roles, participating in a myriad of missions such as counterterrorism and disaster relief. Throughout history, these exceptional forces have played integral roles in pivotal conflicts, spanning from World War II and the Cold War to the ongoing War on Terror.