10 Top Rated Special Forces In The World

The world of special forces is shrouded in mystery and intrigue, with various countries boasting elite units that conduct high-stakes missions. These special forces are trained to operate in a variety of environments, from the scorching deserts to the dense jungles, and are equipped with cutting-edge technology and tactics. In this article, we will explore the top 10 rated special forces in the world, highlighting their unique characteristics, training methods, and notable operations.

What Makes a Special Force Elite?

Before we dive into the top 10 list, it's essential to understand what makes a special force elite. These units are typically characterized by:

• Highly specialized training and expertise
• Advanced technology and equipment
• Ability to operate in a variety of environments and situations
• Strong leadership and teamwork
• High levels of physical and mental fitness

With these factors in mind, let's proceed to the top 10 rated special forces in the world.

10. GIGN (France)

The GIGN (Groupe d'Intervention de la Gendarmerie Nationale) is the elite counter-terrorism unit of the French National Gendarmerie. Founded in 1974, the GIGN is trained to conduct high-risk missions, including hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, and surveillance.

Notable Operations:**

• 1994 Air France Flight 8969 hijacking
• 2015 Charlie Hebdo shooting

9. EKO Cobra (Austria)

The EKO Cobra (Einsatzkommando Cobra) is the elite counter-terrorism unit of the Austrian Federal Police. Established in 1978, the EKO Cobra is trained to conduct high-risk missions, including hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, and surveillance.

Notable Operations:**

• 1978 Munich Olympics hostage crisis
• 2013 Graz hostage crisis

8. Sayeret Matkal (Israel)

The Sayeret Matkal (General Staff Reconnaissance Unit) is the elite special forces unit of the Israeli Defense Forces. Founded in 1957, the Sayeret Matkal is trained to conduct high-risk missions, including counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and deep reconnaissance.

Notable Operations:**

• 1976 Entebbe Airport hostage crisis
• 2006 Lebanon War

7. Spetsnaz (Russia)

The Spetsnaz (Special Purpose Forces) is the elite special forces unit of the Russian Armed Forces. Founded in 1941, the Spetsnaz is trained to conduct high-risk missions, including counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and deep reconnaissance.

Notable Operations:**

• 2004 Beslan school siege
• 2014 Ukrainian conflict

6. British SAS (United Kingdom)

The British SAS (Special Air Service) is the elite special forces unit of the British Army. Founded in 1941, the SAS is trained to conduct high-risk missions, including counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and deep reconnaissance.

Notable Operations:**

• 1980 Iranian Embassy siege
• 2003 Iraq War

5. Navy SEALs (United States)

The Navy SEALs (Sea, Air, and Land Teams) are the elite special forces unit of the United States Navy. Founded in 1962, the Navy SEALs are trained to conduct high-risk missions, including counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and deep reconnaissance.

Notable Operations:**

• 2001 Operation Red Wings
• 2011 Operation Neptune Spear (Bin Laden raid)

4. JW GROM (Poland)

The JW GROM (Military Unit GROM) is the elite special forces unit of the Polish Armed Forces. Founded in 1990, the JW GROM is trained to conduct high-risk missions, including counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and deep reconnaissance.

Notable Operations:**

• 2001 Operation Enduring Freedom
• 2003 Iraq War

3. GIS (Italy)

The GIS (Gruppo di Intervento Speciale) is the elite counter-terrorism unit of the Italian Carabinieri. Founded in 1977, the GIS is trained to conduct high-risk missions, including hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, and surveillance.

Notable Operations:**

• 1985 Achille Lauro hijacking
• 2003 Iraq War

2. Shayetet 13 (Israel)

The Shayetet 13 (Naval Commando Unit 13) is the elite naval special forces unit of the Israeli Navy. Founded in 1949, the Shayetet 13 is trained to conduct high-risk missions, including counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and deep reconnaissance.

Notable Operations:**

• 1973 Operation Spring of Youth
• 2002 Operation Homeland

1. Delta Force (United States)

The Delta Force (1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta) is the elite counter-terrorism unit of the United States Army. Founded in 1977, the Delta Force is trained to conduct high-risk missions, including hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, and deep reconnaissance.

Notable Operations:**

• 1979 Operation Eagle Claw
• 1993 Operation Gothic Serpent

Special Forces Image Gallery

What is the difference between special forces and regular military units?

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Special forces are elite units that are trained to conduct high-risk missions, including counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and deep reconnaissance. Regular military units, on the other hand, are trained for more conventional military operations.

What is the selection process for special forces like?

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The selection process for special forces is highly competitive and involves a rigorous series of physical and mental challenges. Candidates must meet specific requirements, including age, education, and physical fitness standards.

What kind of training do special forces receive?

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Special forces receive advanced training in areas such as counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and deep reconnaissance. They also receive training in specialized skills, such as languages, parachuting, and combat tactics.

In conclusion, special forces are elite units that play a critical role in modern military operations. With their advanced training and specialized skills, they are capable of conducting high-risk missions that require precision and finesse. We hope this article has provided you with a better understanding of the top 10 rated special forces in the world.