Top 10 Most Elite Special Forces in the World
Special operations units are by far the most well trained soldiers on the planet, and for good reason. They are preparing to be sent into some of the toughest situations on the planet; literal life or death missions.This list is for the special operations forces that are the most prepared, most well trained, most capable, and most likely to complete their objectives.
The British Special Air Service, or SAS, is a special forces unit of the British Army. They are known for their expertise in counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and covert reconnaissance missions. The SAS was founded in 1941 and has been involved in numerous conflicts around the world, including the Gulf War, the Falklands War, and the War in Afghanistan. Fact: Nearly ALL the world's Special Forces base their military model on the British SAS. In fact, the USA's Delta Force was set up after the founder spent time attached to the SAS. Delta Force even uses an SAS organizational structure, utilizing troops and squadrons. It's often remarked that the sand beret is also worn by US Rangers, but this was a recent development and, in any case, the Rangers are NOT the same kind of unit. It can be said with confidence that the world's most professional special forces belong to Britain.
The Special Air Service is the number one fighting force in the world. It is trained to perform equally well in all the fields listed for the SEALs, but is also trained by MI-5 and MI-6 for in-depth counter-espionage, more so than the SEALs. Physical competency must be of equal stature to the SEALs, to the degree that both special forces work closely together when necessary (Iraq and Afghanistan) and have good camaraderie.
The fact is you are left out in the wilderness to eat worm omelettes and find dead sheep poisoning your water source for five days, with 100 commandos and German shepherds that have your scent following you. Oh, and you can't be spotted by the locals. They have been told to report you if they spot you. After five grueling days, you are captured by the commandos for 36 hours without sleep, food, or water. Oh, wait, the way to get water is for a face cloth to be put over your head while being restrained and having your lungs filled up with water. You'll be beaten up, have your fingernails pulled off, and if you have a fear of spiders or snakes, they'll use that as well. After 36 hours, that is only the end of the selection. So the sorry Americans saying the SEALs are still better should take time to consider this.
The SAS are the benchmark for elite forces around the world. They train and train and evolve and train some more. Their tactics are forever improving and unique, leaving the enemy guessing. The mental and physical resilience of these guys is what stands out. They aren't bothered about glory or making a name. They just want to get the job done with the least issues possible. What sets them apart is that they are ordinary guys who wouldn't stand out in a crowd. Often referred to as "grey men," they fit anywhere and everywhere and yet are extremely focused, very highly trained, and fearless in their approach without being stupid.
The United States Navy Sea, Air, and Land (SEALs) Teams are the special operations force of the United States Navy. They are trained to conduct maritime operations, direct action warfare, and special reconnaissance missions. SEALs are also known for their expertise in combat diving, parachuting, and close quarters combat. The SEALs are the best in the world today. Arguing about physical, mental, and emotional training is moot because all special ops units are elite in those categories. However, the SEALs have advantages over others due to the unparalleled US military budget, which provides them with training in every geographical and climate scenario. The US has been active in wars around the globe since the Cold War, providing the SEALs with actual battlefield experience and proven results. Whereas most other units belong to nations that have not been at war for many years. At the end of the day, the SEALs blow past the competition because of their incredibly advanced technology and endless firepower. Upon completion of duty, former SEALs are the most hired consultants by other nations to oversee training for their respective units than any other special ops organization.
We have the history and experience to back it up. Plus, we have the best training in every weather and geography, and access to the most advanced technology man has to offer. Also, we are constantly in hostile situations, are combat-ready, and are active to this day. Can't say the same for some of these other spec-ops forces. Most other nations are limited to small defense budgets and lack diverse terrain for training situations and conditioning. Also, where is the experience of actual combat or credentials gained? Actions speak louder than words.
Seriously, guys, why do most of the other Special Operations get compared to SEALs? We really don't care about all this nonsense. Find another group to compare yourselves to. Most of us have trained together and even gone through each other's training. FYI, the biggest difference between us and everyone else is not stamina, shooting skills, etc. It's teamwork, which is why we are considered the "TEAM." Unlike other forces, we technically send only one guy because no matter how many guys physically are on the mission, they move, fight, and even think as one guy - "Borg" even. This is what truly sets us apart. We are the best at teamwork in unlimited situations. Keep the fight strong and stay easy.
Before they even get on the battlefield, Navy SEALs experience hell. Their training is the most rigorous in the world. During Hell Week, they get almost no sleep (4 hours in 7 days) and do things like carry 50-pound logs up sand dunes and stand in freezing cold water for hours as a team. There's a reason half of them drop out. The ones who make it are the strongest people on Earth. Once on the battlefield, they do the hardest missions, like killing Osama. This is why the Navy SEALs are the best on Earth.
The Indian Marine Commandos, or MARCOS, are the special forces unit of the Indian Navy. They specialize in amphibious warfare, which includes conducting operations in and around the coastal areas of India. The MARCOS are highly trained in close combat, urban warfare, underwater operations, and anti-piracy missions. Indian MARCOS are one of the best forces present in the world. They are HALO and HAHO trained and are equipped with the best assault rifles, sniper rifles, and real-time warfare equipment required. These individuals are emotionally well-trained and highly motivated when it comes to defending their own country. The rejection rate during the selection process is as high as 98%, which is why India has only 2000 marine commandos. Sooner or later, this special group will rise to the top, and it won't be long before MARCOS deliver a decisive blow to Pakistan, a country known for promoting terrorism.
See, Indian special forces, or MARCOS, are the ones who are prepared for the worst-ever situations. So, they are the best.
Secondly, unfortunately, we, as India, have had a number of bad experiences, such as terrorism, war fronts, hill terrain warfare, and seafront wars. But the good thing is that we are more familiar with these situations, so we know better than anyone else how to face them. Thus, they are trained with all these things in view.
Thirdly, India is a land of different terrains. Almost all types are available here, so they are trained in different terrains.
Lastly, but not least, you can come up with a strategy for a mind-driven person or a powerful enemy, but for someone who is emotionally driven with a fire of enthusiasm and love for the country, you can't stop them.
The Indian MARCOS are one of the most powerful special forces on the planet. They surpass the Navy Seals in terms of physical and mental training. In fact, the only advantage the Seals have over MARCOS is technology. However, by 2020, when India becomes a superpower, MARCOS will be the most powerful special force in the world.
A prized possession of the Indian armed forces, they are one of the best in this field. They have access to the best equipment available, from Russia to the USA, thanks to Indian diplomatic relations. Do not dare to underestimate this lethal weapon. It is considered unwise by all who have faced it (ask the Pakistani military, Kashmiri rebels, and the Taliban). They are a close ally of SEALs, Spetsnaz, and SAS. Many joint operations and war games have been conducted with these elite units in the last decade. Their operations are so clandestine that most of them are classified. They possess underwater assault gear and are capable of being deployed from submarines, warships, amphibious vehicles, helicopters, and airplanes. So, you can rightly estimate their elite status.
Shayetet 13 is the naval special forces unit of the Israeli Defense Forces. They specialize in maritime and underwater operations, including counter-terrorism, sabotage, and intelligence gathering. Shayetet 13 has been involved in various conflicts, including the Yom Kippur War and the War on Terror. The Israeli Naval Commandos have always had a strong reputation for what they are capable of. A highly well-trained group of soldiers capable of assaults by sea, air, or land and specializing in maritime operations. Arguments will most likely be made as to why this unit is not a top 5 unit. Most funding to Israeli special ops units like Shayetet 13, Matkal, and Shaldag comes from the United States. Therefore, since they are relying on an uncertain external force to keep them afloat, I consider their foundation too fragile to rank higher.
The best-trained Israeli force is Sayeret Matkal, directly dependent on the Prime Minister, not the IDF. Among other feats, it performed the Entebbe rescue. The funding of Israeli special forces does not depend on the US, nor does the funding of the IDF. Israel funds its armed forces with its own money. It receives 2% of the funding from the US, and it is used on US-made equipment. The top anti-terror unit in the world is the Israeli YAMAM, which is part of the Israeli Border Police. It has won the SWAT competition in the US for three years in a row. MATKAL is a force with enormous resources, a mixture of SAS and Delta, but specialized in the Middle East and the Mediterranean basin.
Shayetet 13 is more similar to the SEALS than to Delta Force, given that they are "the Israeli Navy SEALS." I think they deserve a spot in the top 5 for sure. Some of the units here were trained by men who came from the Israeli special forces, like the Indians and the Polish GROM, for example.
Their hostile environment becomes their best training ground for the IDF. And I think Shayetet 13 should be in the first spot. Also, I think countries in the Middle East should also make it onto the top 10 list. It's so sad that choosing the best is like basing it on ads or watching Hollywood movies, not in reality.
The Pakistan Special Service Group, or SSG, is a special operations force of the Pakistan Army. They are trained to carry out unconventional warfare, guerrilla warfare, and intelligence gathering. The SSG has been involved in various conflicts, including the War in Afghanistan and the ongoing insurgency in Balochistan. Very brave and courageous. A Russian president once said that if he had Pakistan's army and Russian weapons, he could conquer the entire world because they are very brave.
The SSG had only 100 men in the Battle of the Hill in Afghanistan, in which they posed as Mujahideen and attacked the Russian regiments of Spetsnaz there. They won the battle although the enemy had the elevation of their posts and superior numbers on their side. In another case, only 100 SSGs cleared 3 towns in the Swat District from 2,000 Taliban in a matter of 2 days!
It is not the weapon they hold. It's the men behind it that matters. No matter how the West views them, simply because the word MUSLIM is attached to their identity. I wonder if they know that that exact word is their strength. It is impossible to separate the two.
The most well-trained forces. See videos on YouTube. The hardest in selection. If 50,000 apply, only 20 are taken after levels of tough exams, which include health, mental, physical, manners, and honesty. The age allowed is between 22 to 25 only. Keep in mind that these exams are just for selection. The training takes 5 years, which very strongly includes the training of judgment concerning women and children if involved in suspicious activities. (As during war or battle, it's not allowed to kill the old, women, children, and animals in Islam). They are made black belt 2 DAN in 18 months, and further training continues. Very able, strong, and sharp-eyed humans are the result. Their body figures and talking styles totally change into something very special. If you talk to one, you will realize how each word falls from their mouths, as they are trained to speak less and to the point only. They are superhuman.
The Russian Spetsnaz, or special forces, is a term used to describe various special forces units of the Russian Armed Forces. They are trained in a range of skills, including direct action, sabotage, and reconnaissance. Spetsnaz units have been involved in various conflicts, including the Soviet-Afghan War and the ongoing War in Donbass. I think the Russian military is much better for anyone who wants to serve. They have the hardest training I have ever seen, maybe except for Taiwan's leopard crawl. While the training could kill you, it is worth it in the end. The hand-to-hand training seems more skilled than in any other country. The flexibility of the trainees is absolutely amazing. People say Russia is a terrible place for anyone, including the military personnel, but if we're being honest, they take better care of their soldiers than the U.S. does. We have slacked on our military training in every branch, while Russia always seems to make everyone else's look like they are just playing games.
Their training includes torture and beatings (in order to make them pain-resistant), breaking concrete blocks with their bare hands or heads, being hit with wood and glass bottles, and many more things that are banned in Western countries and deemed immoral.
By the way, they have what, for me, are the best assault rifles in the world: the AK family. Big caliber, extremely reliable, and so simple a baby could fix it in the field. They just lack Picatinny rails, which the newest AKs have.
They also undergo extensive training in Systema, which is their martial art. It features almost any movement you can imagine. It's a very deadly martial art, which turns Spetsnaz operators into people who are basically impossible to beat in hand-to-hand combat.
So that's it, basically. If they were equipped with the same material that USSOCOM units have, they would be clearly superior.
However, their history in respect to hostage situations is very bad. They get the job done ...more
From what I understand, they function much differently from most special forces. Most special forces operate units that take on special jobs. Although the Spetsnaz can fill this role, they are frequently mixed in with regular troops, wearing the same uniforms and insignia as the units they are mixed in with. Historically, Russian troops aren't very well-trained, as Russia used a lot of draftees during the Soviet era. So among a unit of draftees, there is one or two total badasses who can pull off some amazing feats (like accurate knife throwing while doing a flip, if the rumors are to be believed).
They're basically thrown in to keep their opponents off balance and make them hesitant, second-guessing themselves when engaging Russian units.
The effectiveness of this tactic can be questionable, but it produces extremely capable soldiers.
Deadliest Warrior season one had a Green Beret vs Spetsnaz episode. Worth checking out if you're curious.
The fact that they are trained to enjoy pain and to never be taken alive puts them in a completely different league than the rest. They literally do not fear death. They do not care if they are shot or are bleeding or have shrapnel in their bodies. They enjoy that pain and will fight until their blood runs cold. No other military group can match up to their skill, clinical brutality, and sheer willpower.
The United States Army's 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta, or Delta Force, is a special operations force of the United States Army. They are trained to conduct hostage rescue missions, direct action warfare, and reconnaissance. Delta Force has been involved in various conflicts, including the Gulf War and the War in Afghanistan I believe it's kind of hard to determine which special forces unit is "better," as they all tend to have their own specialties and therefore are better or worse depending on the situation. However, given Delta's secrecy, 100% accuracy marksmanship training, and incredibly high-risk training methods (for example: using live ammunition in hostage simulations while their comrades play the roles of the hostages), and also seeing how Delta recruits from other special forces groups while many others have "open tryouts," I'd say that Delta Force is at least the most "badass."
The Delta Force is the best special operations group in the world. They are better than the SEALS in every way (except amphibious operations). They follow a philosophy that gets the right people, not just the best. You can be the best at what you do and still not get into the unit. Delta has more brains and brawn than everyone else and can perform the largest variety of operations with maximum efficiency. They invent their own equipment if they need to. That's how the NVGs with the four tubes were invented. There is so much more that they can do better than everyone else.
Who the hell even comes up with these lists? While Delta primarily recruits from the Army, they recruit from all branches and all units, including DEVGRU. People are recruited upwards to more capable units, not downwards to less capable ones. Operators move from other units (if they pass) to Delta. Delta operators don't go to other units.
While the SAS is outstanding and the forerunner of what today is called special ops and the original template for Delta, many SAS operators (somewhat grudgingly) have admitted to being surpassed by Delta, even if only by a small margin.
CAG is the top of the pyramid.
I'm going to break from the tradition of each country supporting its special forces and tell you right away that I am not from the USA. All those people placing SEALS above Delta don't know how it works.
From a strictly functional point of view, DELTA is a tier 1 SF while SEALS are tier 2, along with Army Rangers. Only SEAL Team Six is tier 1, and it has violated its disclosure policy so many times, it's not funny. Thus, I consider DELTA to be the most elite special force of the US. I'm not qualified to draw a comparison between this and MARCOS, Spetsnaz, or SAS. But SSG? Really? It has failed its mandate on so many occasions. It's unbelievably unprofessional.
Following is an excerpt from Wikipedia:
"During Operation Magistral, it is alleged that the SSG came into regular contact with Soviet forces. One of these incidents was the Battle for Hill 3234, where a company of Soviet paratroopers engaged a force of Mujahideen believed to be SSG. The Mujahideen wore black ...more
The United States Army Special Forces, also known as Green Berets, is a special operations force of the United States Army. They are trained in unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, and counter-terrorism. Green Berets have been involved in various conflicts, including the Vietnam War and the War in Afghanistan. Rangers and SEALs will never be as good as the Green Berets. True, Rangers are ready to go on a dime, but so are airborne units and pretty much every other special ops unit in the military. It's not hard to kick in doors, etc. Direct-action units like Rangers and SEALs are elite, but Green Berets can not only do everything they can but also have one of the biggest advantages: the fact that they can go into another country and topple it from the inside without the help of conventional forces. Overall, say what you will, but Green Berets are the best there are.
I don't know anything about other forces, but my dad was a Green Beret and he trained me in subtle ways my entire life. Their training has obviously stayed with them to their core and they are perfect and godlike to me. Aside from fighting skills, they have taught me how to be patient and calm in stressful situations, how to observe and engage others while sizing up situations. I think they're the best because they're not just badass jocks. They are suffused with something different, something extremely honorable, and their presence alone almost imperceptibly asks that of others around them.
And more than anything, they have taught me the importance of KEEPING A SECRET. All my life, whenever I've been told something in confidence, I've never repeated it. I was told, "They're weaker than you and I, and usually share secrets because they have nothing better to say."
"I've got a girl in every port bay..."
The Green Berets are the most superior special forces in the U.S. Army. I think a spot between 5-1 would be best. They have one of the best and hardest training programs. They are trained to survive at any cost and follow right behind the SEALs, in my opinion. Also, their history is very interesting. The Green Berets fight in airborne squads, which takes courage. Most Rangers eventually become a Green Beret. "De Oppresso Liber," translated to English, is "to liberate the oppressed," and is said for a reason.
U.S. Special Forces (Green Berets) deserve the term "Spearhead" of American military forces. These soldiers undergo extensive training in firearms proficiency, tactical shooting, linguistics, cultural communication, psychology, intelligence gathering, first aid, sniping, hand-to-hand combat, evasion, and survival.
JW GROM is a special forces unit of the Polish Armed Forces. They specialize in anti-terrorist operations, direct action, and special reconnaissance. JW GROM was established in 1990 and has been involved in various peacekeeping and counter-terrorism missions, including the War in Afghanistan. They are the guys whom the USA calls when they have a mission behind enemy lines (Afghanistan, Iraq are confirmed examples) that they want to keep very secret and quiet. Most of the time, for years, nobody even knows that any operations were conducted. They were operating in Iraq for at least a year before the official invasion (confirmed 10 years later). They also specialize in search and rescue operations behind enemy lines - yes, they rescued SEALs from the hands of Saddam's soldiers, more than once. Currently, there are rumors that SEALs visit Poland to get training from GROM.
Polish GROM is in the same league as the British SAS, US Navy Seals, and Delta Force. It has been created and trained based on the same principles and standards as them. In my opinion, GROM should be within the world's top four special units. Just ask the British and Americans who have carried out quite a few special operations with GROM. They will tell you what GROM is worth.
This highly secretive unit of the Polish military has been shrouded in mystery for quite some time. They have been hailed as one of the prime European special ops units and have established a reputation few can stand up to. They have been involved in numerous homeland defense missions and even more international operations, normally working closely with other top-tier special ops units.
I believe that GROM is one of the best special force units in the world. It is true they cooperate with the SAS, Seals, and I think with Delta Force as well. Their selection process is insane, even for special forces, and they are cold-minded, ultra-tough, and devoted soldiers. They are well-funded and, what is most important, a very active unit with constant battle experience.
The Ranger Regiment is working at a consistently higher level than nearly any other operational unit on the planet. There are only a handful of Tier 1 assets across the globe that can boast an equal operational tempo, higher rate of success, or more difficult training cycle than the Regiment. No other unit is harder to stay in than the Regiment. Others may be harder to get to, but none are as difficult to remain within due to the nature of the training and constant deployment schedule. The Regiment of "Black Hawk Down" is unrecognizable in terms of the type of mission sets the Regiment is performing today. If people knew just what the Regiment really did today, I think you'd find them well within the top 5 on this and any other list around.
I personally know and/or have met many active-duty, recently- and long-retired Rangers from Battalion 2 at Fort Lewis-McChord over the last several years and do not believe that a more highly and diversely skilled, dedicated, discreet, intelligent, loyal-for-life, and unwaveringly committed Special Force unit exists within the United States military. The cumulative past and present successful missions, including retrieving other military branches' Special Forces, are because of every Ranger's competencies and bravery.
The fact that the Army Rangers' long legacy of "top-of-class" mission success is rarely publicized or commercialized underscores an unwavering, lifelong commitment to do what is necessary for every American's well-being around the world. Thank you all!
The Army Rangers are the best the U.S. Army has to offer. Not only are they well-equipped, but also well-trained. There is a reason why the motto of the Rangers is "Rangers lead the way!" It's because they are the first military unit America deploys to any engagement they go into. Not to mention the fact that they are deployed all over the world. And by the way, has anyone ever wondered why most Delta Force applicants are from the 75th Ranger Regiment? It's because they know the soldiers that come out of there are the best.
I served as Airborne, Air Assault, and Ranger. I'm Pathfinder-qualified as well as having completed SERE training. I respect all the highly trained special units mentioned in this article (well, maybe not Spetsnaz). I think the SEALs are getting all the attention because they like to be in the spotlight. The Marine statement below is just foolish and not worthy of a reply. Enough said on that. I don't think people realize that Rangers are ready to deploy every minute of every day. We should be higher on this list because we are always on the go. We go anywhere, anytime, on every type of mission with no notice. We don't (can't) talk about the things we do. We just act and then get ready to hit the tarmac again. People would not believe the places I've been deployed throughout my career. Truly, "RANGERS LEAD THE WAY."
JTF-2 remains the only foreign special operation unit to be inducted into the American Tier 1 ranking (along with Delta and Seal Team 6). Furthermore, JTF-2 is a military unit specifically requested to perform operations that were seen as incapable for other special forces such as Seals, Green Berets, and Delta during operations in Afghanistan. They are experts trained to operate in the world's deadliest terrains, where they specifically train in frozen and mountainous environments. Information about JTF-2 members is deemed classified, and members of the unit cannot inform family members of their involvement within the unit. It is one of the most guarded and secret special forces units in the world - products of a nation that values training rather than the advancement of weapon technology above all else.
As a Canadian citizen, I can tell you how under the radar these guys are. Almost no one knows about JTF2. Their size is unknown. They could be larger than any special force in the world. No one will know. Another factor that makes Canada's JTF2 unique is that countries don't suspect Canada as a major threat and contributor in anti-terrorism and counter-insurgency, which allows them to operate with little international pressure. Technically, Canadian soldiers are considered to be some of the best-trained and equipped in the world, with a great salary. I can only imagine the quality of the soldiers in JTF2.
One thing that is a bit different in this group is the training that goes into strategic planning ability. I know that missions are very meticulously planned, with a strong emphasis on information gathering and processing. Another thing is professionalism. Being expected to perform the task correctly with low chances for mistakes, friendly fire, Black Hawks down, etc. Planning for contingencies, and practice, practice, practice. Another thing is a certain level of accountability. Even one of their own generals was tried and fined for the accidental discharge of a weapon, and he owned up to it. Now, even with DEVGRU, consider that during the attempted rescue of Linda Norgrove, she was killed by one of the SEALs' grenades, and they tried to conceal that fact. Now, do you want someone who admits and learns from mistakes, or someone who tries to hide the fact that it happened?
Canadian special forces training and Canadian Forces training have some of the most rigorous and efficient training on the planet and have for years. Even things like the P90x training system are based on an old Canadian military program, which even one of the Princes used to develop his physical capabilities. The British have frequently cited Canadian military training programs as being the best available. JTF2 has even trained foreign troops, including the US, and the Canadian military frequently trains other foreign infantry just as the US, Britain, etc., do as well. Yes, even the US trains the Canadian military in the south for the climate, just as other allied nations help each other when needed, but the training that goes on above the 49th parallel, and especially for JTF2, seems to be the best in the world.
The British Special Boat Service, or SBS, is the special forces unit of the British Royal Navy. They specialize in maritime operations, including maritime counter-terrorism, sabotage, and intelligence gathering. SBS has been involved in various conflicts, including the Gulf War and the War in Afghanistan. The most highly trained amphibious special forces in the world. Picked from the same stock as the SAS, they don't get as much publicity but are just as effective and successful. The SEALs are great, but the SBS are the best in this category. They have been completing missions like Operation Anaconda since 1940 and we've never heard a word of it. The SAS and the SEALs might be the show ponies these days, but the SBS have always been the prize workhorses of the British and NATO special forces.
Easily one of the most difficult trainings to pass, they have great leaders, both currently and historically, use some very well-made weaponry and equipment, and most of all, they bring all that together to result in success in every arena of combat they are placed in.
The SBS, in the main, are selected from the Royal Marines, which have the longest and most extensive infantry training in NATO. Mountain leader training alone takes one and a half years! Therefore, the benchmark has already been set for very professional military skills. Many more were initially selected for 14 Intelligence in Ireland, due to their ability to undertake undercover lone working with MI6, where many initial SAS failed to adapt to this crossover type of work. They were the preferred choice during Task Force Black due to their more reflective and planned approach, relative to the SAS, who already set a high benchmark.
They undertake all the same skills as the SAS and fought alongside them unofficially in Vietnam, Malaya, Borneo, and Sierra Leone. They pioneered parachuting to water, oil rig, and boat rescue. They kayak for massive distances and dive from subs. They carry considerably more weight, not including the kayak! In short, water-based endurance and skills ...more
Come on, look at the SBS selection and training "By Strength and Guile." They have to complete the SAS training, then a further 4 weeks of SBS training before being badged. They are part of the Royal Marines who undergo one of the longest and toughest military trainings in the world to become a general Royal Marine Commando. Per mare, per terram.
In conclusion, it is impossible to rank the best Special Forces in the world and it should not be attempted. They all should be given our greatest respect for the job they do, silently and without seeking recognition, fame, or fortune.
The SBS is the most highly trained and quietest of all British special forces. They complete the same selection and training as the SAS but are not 'badged' until they have completed more extensive and rigorous SBS training.
Contrary to some opinions here, they are not 'part of the SAS.' They are part of the Royal Marines.
Americans seem to believe the SEALs are the best, having pulled off one good mission. The SBS have been doing it for years but without telling anyone.
Their job is to enter quickly and leave quickly. The road to becoming a KSK Soldier is harsh. To become a KSK soldier, you have to march with full gear through treacherous terrain, swim in water that is around 1 degree Celsius, and walk up a mountain with wet gear and a log on your back, which in total weighs around 50 kg. After walking up the mountain, they have to make it back to their base, again, jogging with full gear. After all the physical work is done, they have to take a written test which assesses if they can still solve problems while they are exhausted. This week is called "Höllen Woche" in German, or "Hell Week."
The German KSK are an elite commando unit of the German military and cross-train very often with the elite police unit known as GSG9. The German KSK have been involved in training many other European special forces units and have a high reputation among military leaders around the world.
They are a very good unit. Their tactical knowledge is above others.
Our German KSK are the best special forces in the world!
Aus SAS operations from Vietnam to Afghanistan speak for themselves. This force is highly regarded by British and US special forces commanders and regularly trains side by side. The Aus SAS selection is considered by many to be the toughest on the planet, as it is basically the same as the British selection but in more rugged, hostile, and very hot conditions. In the absence of a Marine Corps, the Aus SAS also train like the British SBS or US Navy Seals. It staggers belief that they are not listed here in the top 3 to 5, as they have been by military experts in other more thoroughly investigated or official almanacs. Perhaps this is because most of the opinions come from countries with much larger populations and patriotic bias.
The training for the SAS is incredibly hard here in Australia. In harsh conditions and training with heavy loads in groups, it really tests mental and physical strength. Even after completing the selection course, there is still a 70% chance you will get kicked out of the SAS. After the selection course, there are still many more challenges and tasks to complete. It is extremely tough, and the results over the last 30 years speak for themselves: Vietnam, Somalia, East Timor, Afghanistan, Iraq, and now Syria/Iraq.
The Australian SAS are trained to an exceptionally high level, both physically and mentally. They are the most headstrong team in the world, and the percentage of gaining access into the regiment is under 8%. They are just as good, if not better than, the British SAS and, in my opinion, better than the Navy Seals. They are trained to be experts in both water and air services, and not just to specialize in one certain aspect, but to be as good as a specifically trained team in both water and air.
Seeing how the first unit of this special force isn't that well-known and has reached this high spot should show how good they are, as well as reflect on the country's population. Second, the Australian SAS, which is actually called the SASR (Special Air Service Regiment), is based on the SAS, which is regarded as the best special force unit in the world. This should reflect how good they are. Third, these soldiers have a lot of experience. They have fought in multiple wars, including Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan alongside the Americans. In these wars, they more than proved themselves to be one of the best.
The Indonesian Special Forces Command, or Kopassus, is the special forces unit of the Indonesian Army. They are trained to carry out unconventional warfare, guerrilla warfare, and counter-terrorism operations. Kopassus has been involved in various conflicts, including the East Timor conflict and the War on Terror. With its headquarters in Cijantung, East Jakarta, KOPASSUS is considered to be an elite force that has traditionally emphasized its small size and quick-strike potential. It has been involved in numerous military actions in response to internal Indonesian unrest. KOPASSUS units were involved in 1981 in freeing the hostages from the "Woyla," the Garuda Airline plane hijacked by followers of Imran, leader of an Islamic splinter movement in West Java. Imran forced the plane to land at Don Muang Airport in Thailand. KOPASSUS troops were dispatched to Thailand and brilliantly overwhelmed the hijackers. Around 90 troops from KOPASSUS were dispatched to Irian Jaya when a rebel group took hostages. They left the province without rescuing the remaining captives in 1996. KOPASSUS members climbed Mount Everest in 1997.
They're all brutally trained to make up for our machinery and weaponry, obviously. The thing is, they aren't just physically trained like any other special forces in the world. Their martial arts also focus on psychological and spiritual endurance. They meditate and train their energy or chakra to be able to do things impossible for a normal person, like driving and fighting with their eyes closed. They can break bricks and steel with their bare hands, thighs, and even heads. They have the strongest survival skills as well. Trust me, you can just drop these guys in the middle of the thickest Amazon or even in the middle of the Sahara Desert, and they'll make it out alive.
May 23, 2015.
Team Indonesia's Army shooters (Kopassus Kostrad) won the overall championship in the shooting competition at the Australian Army Skill at Arms Meeting (AASAM) held in Puckapunyal, Australia.
The medals achieved by the Indonesian team were very far ahead of teams from other countries. Indonesia successfully won 30 gold medals, 16 silver, and 10 bronze. Meanwhile, the Australian Army in second position bagged 5 gold medals, 9 silver, and 6 bronze, while the United States placed third with 4 gold medals, 1 silver, and 2 bronze.
The Indonesian army managed to beat the 16 countries that participated in the race, including the United States, France, Britain, and Australia as the host.
Success in international shooting competitions at AASAM in Australia meant that the team of Army shooters (Kopassus - Kostrad) finished as the overall champion and have been the overall champions in a row since the year 2008 to 2015.
Kopassus is part of the Indonesian armed forces. Their measure of professionalism is never based solely on reward or punishment, but more on love for the nation, a call to struggle even when the state ceases functioning, and the fact that all Indonesian soldiers are no different from the people of Indonesia, with whom they stand against any adversaries.
According to historians (UK historians, actually), France has the best ratio in terms of winning major conflicts. People should remember that we're talking about a major nuclear, diplomatic power, consistently for 300 years. That counts for something.
I went to French Commando School #7 (Trier, Germany). Trained with a platoon of Americans, a platoon of Germans, a platoon of British, and French. Awesome training. Lots of high climbing, rappelling, hand-to-hand, and extreme endurance.
France has actually WON more wars than any other nation in history. This is what makes the British and their cousins so angry and disdainful about it.
The French have lost more wars than any other nation in history. Still, they stand. After all their wars, it has only made them stronger and tougher.
They are the most highly trained force in the world. They have a longer boot camp than any of the other three branches in the United States military. They are skilled in many different kinds of martial arts. I would pit a United States Marine Sergeant against a Navy SEAL any day of the week. They were the first to respond to the call in the Pacific after Pearl Harbor. Marines are who you send in when the Army just won't cut it. Born in 1775, they are the smallest but the most well-trained warriors on Earth.
The most elite fire support team in the world, and the only one that has the U.S. Department of Defense distinction of calling in strikes from air, land, and sea.
The US Marines are number 1 on this list. The US Army is second, and the Navy SEALs are third. Read military history about the battle victories that saved the world from complete destruction. Semper Fi.
They are trained to work with any special ops group. Some of the training they go through includes Rangefinder, SEAR, and more. They are the elite Force Multiplier unit in the world and should be rated in the top 5.
The Alpha Group is a special forces unit of the Russian Federal Security Service. They are trained in counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and direct action missions. The Alpha Group has been involved in various conflicts, including the War in Afghanistan and the Chechen Wars. I have no idea how Alpha Group, the group that is an elite part of the already elite Spetsnaz, is ranked so far below the Spetsnaz. The French GIGN also deserves a better rank as well.
Honestly, all I have heard about Alpha Group is that they shut down the power in a part of Ukraine for training.
Spetsnaz on steroids.
The British Royal Marine Commandos are the amphibious infantry force of the Royal Navy. They are trained to conduct amphibious operations, including raiding and reconnaissance missions. The Royal Marine Commandos also specialize in mountain warfare, Arctic warfare, and urban warfare. 111 Trp, tough boys with brotherhood/teamwork that fits all situations. Green berets are not easy to get. However, SAS are in another league, but no one recognizes SBS as they are undercover and even most Brits have not heard of them. After the siege in London where the SAS was exposed, the SBS now use the SAS title as they do not want publicity but just to complete missions. The fact is that Royal Marines are in the top 10, SAS in the top 5, but SBS in the top 2. Seeing this table, it is just wrong. However, you guys should check out Unit 777 and the Turks. Jesus, they are tough. Out of the two, I would say Unit 777 would wipe them out. They could even potentially join SBS in the battle for the top 2. Dangerous bunch.
Although not technically special forces, I would argue that these guys should be higher up on the list. Not only do they possess the professionalism, humility, and physical attributes that come with being a Royal Marines Commando, but they also have the mentality to keep going until they can physically no longer take another step. That's just basic training.
Many U.S. Marines couldn't complete the British Royal Marine Commando course. Lots of American Marines who were sent to do our commando course have said theirs is a walk in the park compared to ours. To all you guys out there who have earned your green beret, you have my respect and make me proud to be British.
They are a lot more trained than a normal U.S. Delta Force soldier. They are rated as the most highly trained normal military unit in the world. Only 5 people out of 500 will pass their training, like SAS, but for SAS it's 5 in 500,000 people.
Good bunch of fighters. Well-trained and well-disciplined.
The United States Naval Special Warfare Development Group, also known as SEAL Team Six, is a special operations force of the United States Navy. They are trained in counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and reconnaissance missions. SEAL Team Six has been involved in various conflicts, including the War in Afghanistan and the War on Terror. Unmatched expertise and training. These are the absolute best soldiers in existence, above all others. Their access to the latest information, most advanced and rigorous training, most advanced technology, and America's worldwide military infrastructure put their capabilities above all other special forces units in the world.
If these guys are not number one, there is something wrong. They killed Bin Laden. Toughest of the toughest soldiers. My uncle, who was in the SAS, worked with these guys and said they are the highest trained warriors in existence.
Training is brutal. Trust me, I know a guy who worked with them, and he is one of the most noble and independent SEALs I know. They are the best of the best.
Unbelievably rigorous training. Their ops planning is second to none.
Simply elite. The Thunderbolt forces should be among the best in the world, or at least in the top ten. Like others here say, they are kick-ass.
This should be elevated to where the SEALs are. I've seen these guys before and heck, they are no joke. They have trained with the top special forces in the world and have proven themselves as crucial to those specific missions as the other teams.
They also train to benefit from and survive in the environment, as they learn to kill snakes, lizards, and scorpions and to eat them alive.
They are the most underrated, lethal stealth weapons. Warrior ghosts.
Top-tier "Superman" training that even other special forces operators respect. Air, sea, jungle, sand - they're in it, killing bad guys, usually behind enemy lines, and with a primary mission to save your ass at the same time, no matter who you are, how well you were trained, or what the attrition from your program is. If you've needed them, you know this, and how happy you were to see them coming. The fact that they are trained as equals, treat other operators as equals, and do their job SELFLESSLY for the Army, Navy, Marines, fellow Air Force, or foreign friends alike, makes them number one in my book.
Navy SEALs aren't trained in the field of medicine nearly as well as pararescuemen. In fact, no other special forces group in the world is trained as intensely in this field. The Pararescue training has a 90% dropout rate, not only due to the physical intensity of the program but also due to the inability to keep up mentally. Pararescuemen have to train in every condition and learn to not only survive those conditions to fight but also to give medical attention to whomever requires it. "Because even Navy SEALs, Green Berets, and Recon Marines need to call 911." No matter where or when, pararescuemen can save the lives of those trapped under fire and keep them alive, no matter the cost. Field medics meet special forces. Honestly, pararescuemen are SEALs with medical training. This extra training puts them on top.
They employ land, sea, and various aerial insertion methods, are capable of direct action, CQB, advanced communications, and light underwater salvage in denied territory in order to fulfill their mission: Global 24/7 CSAR. And they hold National Registry Paramedic certificates (EMT is only the first six weeks in that process) in order to triage, treat, and transport their casualties. Light on demolition training (not typically part of their mission). In addition to Rescue Squadrons, PJs are regular actors on spec-op composite teams, interservice small units that train for specific missions. They have the typical special operations attitude: they don't focus on the possibility of success as much as they do the impossibility of failure, and they simply don't quit. Doubt their combat abilities? Stand between them and their pilot...
These guys have saved the lives of thousands, whether they be victims of natural disasters, downed airmen, fallen soldiers, or wounded civilians. They have rescued people from the British Army, Afghani ANA, Coalition troops, and more, going all the way back to Vietnam. These guys are what Navy SEALs and SAS members would be if they went to med school.
The United States Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance, or FORECON, is the special operations force of the United States Marine Corps. They are trained in reconnaissance, direct action warfare, and amphibious warfare. FORECON has been involved in various conflicts, including the Gulf War and the War in Afghanistan. I'm a former 0321, and this is some "fake news" or fake polling. I was in 2nd Force from 1959 to 1967, and I'd stack Marine Recon up against any others. We should certainly be in the top 5. Do some research and read about the training required. Recently, there was a show on AHC about Force Recon. In my day, Marine Recon did not talk about their missions to the outside world. It just was not done. The story was pretty factual, and I was shocked, so I called a longtime Recon friend to ask if he had seen the program or ever heard of this? He spent 27 years in the Corps and 14 years in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Recon, and his answer was "Hell no." Just curious, who did this polling? Semper Fidelis.
My father served in the USMC for 26 years. He served in Korea and Vietnam. I swore an oath to defend my country against all enemies, foreign and domestic, in 1979, and I was honorably discharged from the USMC in 1976. To this day, I am active in all manner of sports, even with two bullets lodged in my spine. I deal with pain and keep moving, and I owe it all to the Marine Corps. I love the Corps! How we could be rated so low is beyond my comprehension. As an aviator on the CH-53, I was in constant contact with my Force Reconnaissance brothers, and I have watched them in action. They performed flawlessly. Semper Fidelis!
I am joining the Marines, but it isn't fair that my brothers here are not in the top three. I mean, the Marines are already the most elite group in the world. Plus, Force Recon is the Marine Corps' special forces, so Force Recon should actually be first. That is why I am joining the Marines. All these other ones are wack, with the exception of SEALs and Spetsnaz.
Honestly, this is good. It shows how elite they are. My father was one. No one knows what they do, yet Navy Seals need a pat on the back and public acknowledgment. Force Recon is for those who don't need a pat on the back and can fight with their mind as well as their rifle. But I wish people understood they should be a lot higher on this list.
They are one of the best special naval forces in the world, much better than MARCOS.
Proud to be Pakistani.
They are the greatest.