In the world of the military, nothing strikes the imagination more than special forces. In addition to conventional military forces, most countries have an elite group of troops that meet a higher standard of requirements and training. Some of these groups have received wide publicity, others are not so well known and shrouded in myths. A commando can silently emerge from the water to silently neutralize guards, storm a plane to rescue hostages in a captured shopping center, sabotage enemy bridges and roads, and perform other top-secret missions in the military world. Which countries have the best special forces in the world? This is a difficult and almost unanswerable question, since any national special forces are created for serious missions, from countering terrorism and rescuing hostages, to reconnaissance and even attack. However, past operations and reputation can be taken into account to assess which forces are in the lead.

Special Forces GIGN, France

First on the list is the French Gendarmerie Intervention Group (GIGN for short) from France. GIGN, like most of the European special forces, traces its history after the hostage-taking at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich. In France, a year earlier, there had been a prison riot in which hostages were taken and killed. The result of these upheavals led to the creation of a force that today includes approximately 400 fighters. Specializing in hostage rescue and counter-terrorist operations, GIGN has repeatedly shown itself in action. Past operations have included the rescue of 30 student hostages in Djibouti, the capture of war criminals in Bosnia, the fight against Somali pirates and of course the dramatic attack and hostage rescue aboard Air France Flight 8969 in Marseille in 1994.

SSG Group, Pakistan

In 1956, the Pakistani army created its own special forces known as the Special Services Group (SSG). This force was modeled on the British SAS and US Special Forces, and its strength remains classified. The selection into the ranks of the special forces is very strict, and only 1 out of 4 newcomers, after nine months of training, an on-board school, hand-to-hand combat courses and exhausting physical exercises, fall into the ranks of the SSG. The SSG is trained to perform tasks in all sorts of environments, including mountains, desert, jungle, and even underwater combat. During the early Cold War, SSG forces trained and operated alongside US Special Forces. Some of the fighters were trained in Afghanistan fighting the Mujahideen against the Soviets in the 1980s. India claims that SSG forces frequently attacked its soldiers in the border areas between the two countries. Later, the SSG focused on local counter-terrorism operations, taking part in many successful operations.

Sayeret Matkal, Israel

This Israeli special forces branch is focused on intelligence, counter-terrorism and hostage rescue outside of Israel. Sayeret Matkal was created in 1957 to fill a void in Israel's special forces and is made up of candidates selected for high physical and intellectual characteristics. Applicants complete eighteen months of training, including basic infantry school, paratrooper school, counter-terrorist training, and reconnaissance. The force has taken part in many large scale operations since the 1960s. The most famous of these is Operation Entebbe/Thunderbolt, which made Sayeret Matkal famous all over the world. The operation began after several Palestinian terrorists took hostages aboard the airliner. Many hostages were released, but more than 100 people (mostly Israeli and Jewish hostages) were detained at the airport's terminal building. A group of approximately 100 Israeli commandos, including the Sayeret Matkal Special Forces, attacked the position, killing the terrorists and freeing all the hostages.

EKO-Cobra, special forces of Austria

In 1972, following an attack on Israeli athletes during the Munich Olympics, Austria created the Cobra-Einsatzkommando for anti-terror operations. The detachment was created from 450 men who served in the Austrian Federal Police. Training at EKO-Cobra is similar to that of other squads, and includes several months of specialized courses in marksmanship, language learning, hand-to-hand combat, and tactical combat training. All candidates undergo psychological and physical testing. During training, special forces soldiers study explosives, scuba diving and sniping. While the EKO-Cobra did not have such outstanding operations as Sayeret Matkal, they successfully freed the hostages in the Graz prison in 1996, and are the only counter-terrorism team to prevent a mid-flight hijacking. In this case, in 1996, four Cobra fighters were on the flight when the hijacker demanded a yaw. Needless to say, the raider chose the worst flight for such a move, and was immediately neutralized by the special forces.

Delta Force, USA

Full name of this group - the 1st operational detachment of the Special Purpose "Delta". In addition to counterterrorism operations, Delta can also take part in hostage rescue, attack, reconnaissance, and less covert direct impact operations. The group was formed in 1977 as a result of a growing number of terrorist operations. It was created mainly from soldiers who served in the American special forces, Green Berets, or Rangers. Potential applicants must be male, 21 years of age or older, have high test scores, and be physically and mentally fit. A series of grueling physical and mental tests allows you to immediately get rid of the weakest. According to the results of testing, less than 1 applicant out of 10 is admitted to intensive 6-month training courses. Delta Force operations are shrouded in mystery, but you can be sure they are at the forefront of any US-led operation.

JTF2 Special Forces, Canada

Established in 1993 and expanded to several hundred fighters after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, Canadian Special Forces JTF2 is an elite counter-terrorism and special operations group. Composed of members of the Canadian Forces, JTF2 performs a wide range of operations. They have repeatedly escorted VIPs and provided security at events such as the 2010 Winter Olympics. More covertly, they worked in many of the world's hotspots, rescuing hostages in Iraq, or hunting down Serb snipers in Bosnia. Their presence in Afghanistan is mostly classified, but it is known that some forces were still involved in separate operations. Their activities were so secret that even the Canadian Prime Minister did not know that JTF2 Special Forces were involved in Afghanistan during the first years.

Spetsnaz Alpha, Russia

The elite division of Russian special forces, Alpha Group, was founded in the mid-1970s and became famous during the invasion of Afghanistan, during which Alpha fighters stormed the Presidential Palace in Kabul, killing everyone in the building. In 1985 a group was sent to Beirut to try to rescue four Soviet diplomats. Rumor has it that when the diplomats were killed, the alpha fighters hunted down the relatives of the invaders and returned them to their families practically piece by piece to send a message to would-be terrorists. Domestically, Alpha has been involved in most major anti-terrorist operations, such as the siege of the Nord-Ost theater in 2002 and the takeover of the Beslan school in 2004. Both events demonstrated the rather brutal nature of Russian special forces, as hundreds of hostages died in the course of the operation.

Shayetet 13, Israel

Another Israeli special forces group, Shayetet 13 is linked to the Israeli Navy. Established in 1948, this force has taken part in all major Israeli military operations, from hostage rescue and counter-terrorism to intelligence gathering and surveillance. The course of study lasts 20 months and subjects candidates to the most demanding psychological and physical tests even before the start of specialized training. SWAT soldiers learn all kinds of combat, skydiving, scuba diving and more. Shayetet 13 is also responsible for seizing weapons heading for the Gaza Strip. Their most famous operation took place after the 1972 Olympics in Munich, when special forces hunted down and eliminated those responsible for the attack on Israeli athletes.

Navy Seals, USA

The Navy SEALs are an American special forces group created in 1962. This group has achieved literally mythical status over the years of its existence. Thanks in part to Operation Neptune Spear, a mission in which commandos went to Abbottabad in May 2011 and killed Osama bin Laden, the leader of al-Qaeda. This is an elite physical and mental strength, where only the best of the best are selected. Training takes a year, and most applicants can't even pass the physical proficiency test, which includes swimming, push-ups, squats, and running. But if you pass these very strict standards, then go to general training. After completing the training, you go further, obtaining the qualification of a Navy SEAL, and only after that the door to specialized training opens for you. All this ensures that special forces soldiers are physically and mentally strong and capable of performing the most difficult operations anywhere in the world.

SAS Special Forces, UK

What could be a special forces group that surpasses the legendary Navy SEALs? This is SAS Special Forces - British Service special purpose, created in 1941 to work in the rear of the German and Italian troops and support the resistance movement against the occupying forces. The physical requirements for candidates are very strict and require great endurance. Testing culminates in a 40-mile march with full ammunition, which must be completed in 20 hours. Applicants must be able to swim two miles in an hour and a half and run four miles in 30 minutes. After that, they are thrown into the jungle to learn survival and receive navigational skills, after which they undergo survival practice. The final test is a 36-hour interrogation session in an attempt to break the candidate's will. And only after that the candidate will be admitted to further training. SAS Special Forces soldiers take security courses at MI5 and MI6, learning intelligence service and counterintelligence operations. British special forces are like a mixture of Navy SEALs and James Bond in one bottle.

— People's Daily, China (@PDChina) May 8, 2018

Formerly known as the Snow Wolf Commando Unit, PRC Special Forces" Snow leopards"was kept secret for a long time. For five years, its fighters secretly worked out counter-terrorist operations, actions in case of mass riots, learned to defuse explosive devices. So the Snow Leopards were trained to ensure the security of the Olympic Games, held in Beijing in the summer of 2008.

Also during the exercises, Chinese special forces, together with their Russian counterparts, worked out operations to maintain peace and stability.

"Snow Leopards" are proud of the high speed and accuracy of their shooting, their strength and endurance, as well as their fighting spirit and readiness for self-sacrifice.

You can apply for a place in the detachment only after two years of service in the People's Armed Militia of China (the internal troops of the PRC - approx. "RG"). According to the publication, Barça are superior to many other special forces in terms of martial arts and melee skills.

British "Special Boat Service"

SBS and Delta Force soldiers during an operation in Tora Bora, Afghanistan. Photo: US Government

"By strength and cunning" is the motto of the Royal Navy's Special Boat Service, one of Britain's most secretive and elite special forces.

The SBS is the British equivalent of the US Navy Special Forces. In the process of selecting fighters for this special unit, 90 percent of the recruits are eliminated. The selection itself is a grueling endurance test that lasts four weeks. It ends with a 40-kilometer forced march, which takes less than 20 hours.

British commandos are trained to master weapons, live in the jungle, survive on the battlefield.

Emerging after World War II, today the SBS is one of the most respected special forces in the world. British special forces took part in the fighting against terrorist groups banned in the Russian Federation ISIS and Al-Qaeda, and also carried out rescue operations in Libya and Sierra Leone.

Polish GROM

THUNDER. Photo: Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum / wikimedia.org

The name of the Polish military unit for special purposes is an abbreviation and stands for Operational-Maneuvering Response Group. The group was created in 1990 to protect Jews who emigrated from the USSR to Israel. It operated in areas where increased Hezbollah activity was observed. The existence of the GROM remained a mystery until 1994, when Polish commandos were sent to Haiti to participate in an operation to "restore democracy."

This special unit specializes in hostage rescue and counter-terrorism operations. Its fighters are well-armed, trained in diving and parachuting, explosives and managing various vehicles.

Pakistani Special Forces Group

Special Purpose Group. Photo: hbtila/wikimedia.org

Special forces training in Pakistan includes a 58-kilometer march, which takes 12 hours, as well as an eight-kilometer, fully equipped run, which takes only 35 minutes, according to media reports.

Created to fight terrorism, extremism and separatism, the Special Forces Group is primarily grueling physical training, which is accompanied by training in a parachute school, as well as a 25-week commando course and hand-to-hand combat training. According to available data, only 5 percent of applicants are selected.

The group is actively involved in counter-terrorism operations.

American "Delta"

Delta Force is an elite unit of the US Army, most of the recruits for it are recruited from the 75th Army Ranger Regiment and Green Berets units (Navy and Air Force personnel are also recruited into the Delta). The unit, which has changed several names, specializes in capturing and eliminating high-value targets, destroying terrorist cells, and performing a variety of secret missions.

Most Delta Force missions remain secret, although they are credited with capturing Saddam Hussein and killing Osama bin Laden.

A video leaked online shows training of Delta operatives. During training, the Delta fighters have to pretend to be hostages, while their colleagues fire at targets located near them. This serves as proof of the accuracy of the special forces, builds trust within the special forces and teaches the fighters to avoid getting into hostages.

French National Gendarmerie Intervention Group (GIGN)

GIGN. Photo: domain/wikimedia.org

GIGN is one of the most combat-ready counter-terrorism units in the world. Its main task is to gain access to the site of a terrorist attack as quickly as possible, and then capture or kill the attackers before they can cause more damage.

The GIGN fighter training program lasts fourteen months. Documentary filmmakers filming a group of recruits witnessed how the number of applicants for service in the Intervention Group was reduced from 120 people to 18 in just two weeks. Special forces are taught to handle weapons, shoot accurately, skydive, including from great heights, scuba dive, conduct hand-to-hand combat, survive in difficult conditions and defuse explosive devices.

The soldiers of the French special forces are not only deadly, but also disciplined.

Israeli Sayeret Matkal

Sayeret Matkal fighter. Photo: IDF

Sayeret Matkal, also known as Unit 269, is a special unit of the IDF General Staff. Broad reconnaissance capabilities and successful operations to eliminate terrorists and free hostages ensured a good reputation for the fighters of this special unit created in 1967.

Israeli special forces rely on secrecy, attacking in small camouflaged groups and withdrawing before the enemy has time to realize what has happened.

One of the most famous Sayeret Matkal operations was the release of passengers from an Air France plane in Entebbe in 1976. Planning the operation took a week, bringing the plan into execution - just over an hour.

Under cover, special forces drove up to the terminal building, after which they broke into it and destroyed all the terrorists. They managed to save 102 out of 106 hostages, losing one soldier.

Spanish Special Naval Forces

Spanish commandos and an American Navy SEAL. Photo: U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Jeffrey Lehrberg

The Special Naval Forces were created in 2009, when the various special forces of the fleet entered into a single combat formation. They include combat divers, explosives specialists and fighters from the Special Operations Detachment, which became the basis of the special naval forces.
The Spanish Naval Special Forces specializes in combating terrorists and saboteurs, search and rescue operations, and storming ships.

The Spaniards have experience in rescuing hostages and fighting pirates. So, in 2002 they stormed a North Korean ship carrying missiles to Yemen, and in 2011 they rescued a French hostage from Somali pirates.

And this is just what became known - most of their tasks remain secret.

Russian special forces

Soldiers of Directorate "A" of the Central Security Service of the FSB of Russia .. Photo: SpetsnazAlpha/wikimedia.org

The work of the Russian special forces is shrouded in mystery. According to the authors, most of the Russian special forces can be compared in training with the American Rangers, but there are also elite special forces groups that are more appropriate to compare with the Delta Force.

The Russians are highly experienced in reconnaissance, eliminating enemy supply lines, disrupting chains of command, detecting weaknesses enemy. According to We Are The Mighty, one factor makes a big difference Russian special forces from the American one - this is freedom in choosing weapons.

US SEALs (Navy SEALs)

"Seals". Photo: U.S. Navy/wikimedia.org

Those wishing to serve in the ranks of the SEALs must swim 460 meters in ten and a half minutes, do 79 push-ups, 79 squats, 11 pull-ups and run 2.5 kilometers. And that's just to get into the special forces.

SEAL training consists of underwater explosives training, a parachute school, and a rigorous 26-week special training course. After that, the newly minted commandos will have another 18 months of various trainings.

"Navy SEALs" can conduct reconnaissance, participate in direct combat clashes, and conduct counter-terrorist operations.

The successful implementation of any military campaign depends on the availability of information about the enemy's forces, weapons and numbers. Since ancient times, before the start of a large-scale offensive, detachments of scouts were formed from volunteers, who infiltrated enemy territory to collect data or to carry out sabotage. The development of weapons and the enrichment of the experience of military operations have improved the methods of conducting reconnaissance and sabotage work and served as an impetus for the creation of various paramilitary formations, each of which performs its own highly specialized task.

Specialized army unit

The fighting is associated with numerous casualties, destruction of houses and buildings. Victory in wars is often given at a very high price. On this basis, and having already decent centuries-old combat experience, the army leadership realized the urgent need to create special professional groups to perform special tasks. So in the regular armies of different countries a special unit appeared - army special forces.

What is it for and how does it work?

The army special forces of different countries, with differences in the specifics of training, weapons and camouflage, have one task assigned to them - the quick and silent elimination of the enemy.

To this end, the most vital organs of the enemy are affected, which excludes any possibility of resistance and guarantees instant death.

Army special forces in their work use camouflage techniques that have certain differences in units of different countries. It all depends on the environment, characteristic of a particular area, weather and seasonal conditions in which you have to act. Based on this, the army special forces are equipped with a special uniform adapted to the colors of the area and special equipment for firearms- silencers and flame arresters, allowing you to freely use it behind enemy lines, without fear of betraying yourself with the sounds of shots or flashes of flame.

Detachments carry out reconnaissance work, regardless of environmental conditions and the situation in the enemy camp. The end result is considered to be the information received about the enemy’s weapons, his numbers, and the characteristics of the terrain on which further open hostilities are to be carried out.

What kind of information is obtained by special forces?

Reconnaissance carried out by detachments is considered effective if it is able to provide the army leadership with the necessary information:

• Enemy information.

This is information about the topographic location of those objects that are subject to capture, and an assessment of the degree of their protection. The report must contain data on the quantity, quality and location of enemy fire weapons, on the possible proximity of reserve combat units, on the distance from them to captured objects, on the time and methods of approach of enemy reserves in the event of a direct combat collision.

• Location data.

The report contains information about the passability of the territory, the presence of natural obstacles (gorges, reservoirs), their nature and the possibility of overcoming them. It also includes data on settlements, which must be taken into account in order to ensure an inconspicuous approach to capture objects of interest.

History of creation

In order to identify, neutralize and eliminate terrorist groups, carry out sabotage and counter-terrorist combat missions behind enemy lines, in Russian Federation special combat units and units of special services, the Armed Forces and the police are used.

Russian special forces have their own history.

On July 29, 1974, Directorate “A” was formed in the USSR, which until 1991 belonged to the seventh Directorate of the KGB. This division is still active today. This is a special counter-terrorist unit "A" of the FSB, known to everyone under the name of the special forces "Alpha", recognized in the world as one of the most effective.

In 2011, the team of Detachment “A” under the FSB of Russia participated in the world championship of special forces, where they received the first two places and were recognized as the best international brigade.

Special forces: division "A". Functions

Its main task is to carry out specific military power measures to search for and identify terrorist organizations, neutralize and further destroy armed criminals. Special Forces "Alpha" is engaged in the release of hostages, negotiations with terrorists. The detachment is intended to seize aircraft and watercraft, land transport and storm buildings with hostages held there. Often, the services of the “A” squad are turned to during riots in prisons and colonies, since the unit is considered elite and has a high performance. This made it in demand when performing military operations in "hot spots" and in other situations that are complicated or out of control.

World analogues

Such a special unit is not the only one in the world. American special forces showed high performance in the fight against terrorism. Good material support groups made it possible to conduct numerous experiments, which made it possible to achieve high performance. The soldiers of such detachments during the assault on fortified buildings get inside suddenly for the terrorists - at points that, unlike door and window openings, are not controlled by them. This greatly reduced the death rate in American special forces.

Almost all the developed countries have similar anti-terrorist units, which are not much different from each other. They also perform the function of anti-terror in their state and the tactics of their actions are similar.

About combat training

The fulfillment of tasks requires enormous physical and psychological stress from each soldier of the special forces detachment. This is due to the fact that the spetsnaz detachment carries out its functional tasks mainly either behind enemy lines, or on terrain that is completely unsuitable for normal human life.

Staying in an extreme environment, in harsh conditions, without communication with the outside world requires each member of the special unit to have physical and psychological health, fitness and moral readiness to withstand possible loads.

Pro special forces of the Airborne Forces a lot of feature and documentary films, serials have been shot, where it is colorfully shown how effectively and efficiently the special squad works. But behind the other side, visible to the audience, there is another, which consists of everyday and tedious briefings and training, high demands placed on the fighters by their leadership.

The training of special forces is carried out under the supervision of experienced instructors. The task of training is to transfer knowledge to the wards and develop in them the practical skills necessary to perform combat missions. During the exercises, fighters are taught both standard and highly specialized skills.

What does special forces training include?

1. Standard skills:

• hand-to-hand combat;
• fire, psychological and general physical training.

2. Highly specialized knowledge and practical skills:

• silent movement behind enemy lines, which includes the ability to covertly overcome water and engineering obstacles, swamps, navigate the terrain at night;
• fulfillment of tasks for observation and collection of information in urban areas and settlements;
• effective camouflage: the uniform of the special forces is selected for the fighters depending on the conditions of the terrain on which the work is performed - these can be mountains, forests, desert, marshland or a surface littered with snow;
• orientation on the ground both with the help of a topographic map and without it, the ability to notice and distinguish between traces;
• the ability to carry out radio reconnaissance and use other means of technology for this purpose;
• hardship survival skills human body conditions;
• psychological training and obtaining the knowledge necessary to provide urgent medical care.

Tasks and structure of the Russian Navy

In the position of the naval special forces of the Russian Federation is engaged in:

• mining ships, paramilitary naval bases and hydraulic structures of the enemy;
• search for and further physical destruction of enemy assets intended for a nuclear attack, and points performing their operational control;
• detection in the coastal zone of other enemy objects, accumulation of manpower;
• ensuring landing operations in the coastal zone;
• guidance and adjustment of air and naval artillery strikes against identified enemy forces.

In peacetime, he is engaged in the fight against terrorism and the exchange of experience with other special forces.

The staff of the naval special squad includes 124 people - 56 of them are fighters, the rest are technical personnel. The fighters in the detachment are divided into units and act autonomously. Each of these groups consists of 12 people. They are divided into groups of 6 people: an officer, midshipman and four sailors.

The naval special forces of the Russian Federation are represented by three detachments, each of which performs its task:

• The first detachment is intended to destroy enemy objects located on land. The tactic of the detachment's action consists in an imperceptible underwater approach to the targeted enemy targets with further sabotage. The fighters act as divers and act on the spot as saboteurs of the Main Intelligence Directorate.
• The second detachment is engaged in reconnaissance work.
• The third detachment of naval special forces carries out underwater mining of ships, naval bases, places of deployment of manpower and others. important objects enemy. The fighters of the detachment train especially hard for the role of combat divers, since they operate mainly not on land, but under water - they carry out sabotage work and carry out attacks.

Internal Troops of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia

In the Russian Federation, these troops belong to and are subordinate to the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Following the law “On Internal Troops”, the special forces of the explosives perform the following tasks:

1. In peacetime:

• ensure public order;
• carry out the protection of state-important objects and goods during transportation;
• release hostages;
• help other units in the fight against crime.

2. In war time and in the emergency mode, according to a certain law “On Internal Troops”, the special forces of the explosives receive additional responsibilities - providing assistance to border security agencies in ensuring the territorial defense and security of the country, protecting the borders of the state.

Features of the work of special forces in the city

To perform a combat mission in populated areas, Russian special forces use the following techniques:

• overcoming obstacles;
• covert inspection of the area;
• silent penetration into the structure;
• fast and effective storming of buildings;
• clearing captured buildings.

1. Overcoming obstacles in urban areas. The work is carried out after a thorough examination of the situation. Before overcoming an obstacle that has arisen on the way, the soldiers of the special forces inspect the territory for the possible presence of a hidden enemy. Before overcoming the wall, the opposite part of it is examined.

2. Inspection of the urban area. Buildings are ideal for this task, observation is recommended because of their corners. The main thing is to do it carefully, without revealing yourself with weapons or equipment.

3. When entering a building, window openings are of particular danger, and it is necessary to move under them at a fast pace and crouching low. The fighter must be below the level of the window cut. Window openings in the basement are recommended to step over.

4. During the assault, the advancement of the special forces is carried out along the walls, and also involves passing through them, using faults and cracks. Doorways are overcome by a throw under the fire cover of a partner. The throw should be made swift and immediately aimed under cover.

The Russian special forces, like the special forces of other countries, use smoke screens, in addition to fire cover, to overcome open areas. In this case, dashes are made from one shelter to another if there is a small distance between them. Such advancement is carried out by a group with a mandatory interval between the fighters of at least ten steps. This distance will prevent possible fire damage.

During the assault, American special forces use tools that allow them to destroy the walls in the captured building in places that are not controlled by armed criminals. The unexpected appearance of special forces soldiers in the hole formed in the wall has an overwhelming effect on the terrorists - the effect of surprise is triggered. A moderate explosion, knocking out bricks and cinder blocks strictly along a certain contour, stuns an enemy unprepared for such an assault.

In the Russian special forces, the building is stormed immediately after a grenade is thrown into the window opening. There is a drawback to such a capture tactic - the enemy can quickly react and throw it back. In this case, there is a high risk of being hit by fragments of their own exploding projectile.

5. Clearing the captured building. After the assault, the building is subject to a thorough inspection. To this end, one fighter takes up a firing position outside the doorway and covers the group. The premises that have passed the test are marked with a symbol. The special forces are cleaned up by moving up the flights of stairs “from top to bottom”. This allows you to "squeeze out" the enemy to the lower floors, where it is easier to destroy him or push him out into the street and detain him. It is undesirable to clean "bottom - up". This will give the enemy a chance to firmly gain a foothold on the upper floors or escape along the roofs of nearby buildings.

Equipment of special forces soldiers

According to the season, the form of special forces forgets winter and summer. Depending on the purpose, the equipment of special forces is divided into three types:

• Field form. It is used to perform a combat mission, training and duty. It is also intended to be worn during a military or state of emergency. The highest demands are placed on this type of clothing.
• Parade uniform. Designed for fighters during their stay at solemn state events: guard of honor, receiving awards. It is also used during parades, holidays and weekends.
• Everyday form. Applies to all other cases.

workwear material

The main requirements for the material from which the overalls of the units are made are the ability to ensure safety, high ergonomics and protection. To carry out the disguise of special forces, a special fabric is produced that has an appropriate pattern. In each country, a pattern is selected for the fabric from which special equipment is sewn, for a certain characteristic type of terrain.

Russian special forces use the “surpat” color scheme, which takes into account typical characteristics domestic territory.

In addition to clothing, the uniform of the special forces includes weapons, means of protection, navigation, life support, an individual first-aid kit and special elements are attached to it.

Melee weapons for special forces

The Russian special forces in their activities often encounter situations in which one cannot do without the use of a knife. During the descent from the wall of a house or from a helicopter, you can get tangled in ropes and parachute lines; in the course of capturing a vehicle, it is sometimes necessary to cut jammed seat belts. In such situations, a knife is simply necessary. It is a mistake to assume that edged weapons are required for all power structures of the Russian Federation - airborne troops, riot police or marines. Only special forces have the right to wear and use combat knives during special operations. Mostly these are blades not exceeding 200 mm in length and 60 mm in width.

Knife army special forces in skillful hands, it makes it easy to inflict terrible wounds on the enemy. In the production of combat knives for special forces, very durable and high-quality steel is used.

Naval special forces in their activities often use a knife, which is also called "Reconnaissance Battalion". This knife is made from stainless steel. Blade width - 60 mm, length - 300 mm. The knife is equipped with a protective guard, which makes it easier to strike the enemy.

The blade “Katran” is considered the second most popular type of edged weapon among the fighters of this special forces. It is versatile as it can be used both as a tool and as a weapon. As a tool, this knife, thanks to the transverse groove at its base, is successfully used for bending and breaking wire. The blade is equipped with a double sharpening - regular and sawtooth - on the butt side. The handle and scabbard are made of plastic. Fixation of the knife in the sheath is carried out with the help of latches of the guard. “Katran” is equipped with an additional lock in the form of a rubber ring, which prevents the blade from slipping out of the sheath, which is undesirable for a fighter during a special operation.

Today, the Gyurza knife has been officially accepted for supply to the FSB special forces. Its blade has a one-and-a-half on the side of the butt improves the quality of military weapons and makes it possible to use it to perform related "peaceful" tasks - it is very convenient for them to cut ropes, cables, and use it like a saw.

The history of the use of special forces in the performance of reconnaissance and sabotage activities behind enemy lines, in the fight against terrorists, and especially dangerous criminals proved the urgent need for the use of combat knives. A wealth of experience in performing special specific tasks is taken into account when selecting edged weapons for modern army units.

Today, the issue of combating terrorism is one of the most pressing. Only elite units, which are also called special forces, can provide adequate protection to the civilian population. Similar structures exist in every state. In this regard, many are interested in what special forces are the best in the world?

The public has heard a lot about the anti-terrorist activities of some elite groups, and has no idea about the existence of others. However, despite the lack of wide publicity, such units still exist and operate secretly. Information about which special forces are the best in the world, the rating of the most effective special forces are presented in the article.

Acquaintance

Special Forces is a unique branch of the military, the purpose of which is to destroy terrorist formations, carry out special operations, and having penetrated behind enemy lines, to carry out acts of sabotage and other complex combat missions. Since the place of activity of the personnel is extremely and they have to work using specific power methods, the fighters are provided with high combat, fire, physical and psychological preparation. The question of which special forces are the best in the world, according to experts, is very delicate, since the fighters of such units have already been recognized as the best. In this regard, various competitions are held between the structures. The task of such events is to identify whose special forces are the best in the world.

About classification

According to experts, it is rather problematic to determine the best special forces in the world. The difficulty lies in the fact that in each individual state the tasks of elite groups are different. Some units resist terrorists and rescue hostages, while others carry out reconnaissance and even attack. It is also difficult to identify the best special forces in the world for the reason that the countries have police special forces and elite groups that are in the department of both the special services and the Ministry of Defense.

Compilers of tops and ratings often do not take into account various characters the activities of elite paramilitary structures, but they mix everything together: the Russian FSB special forces operating inside the country, American "fur seals" engaged in sabotage and reconnaissance deep behind enemy lines, the army SAS of Britain. According to one of the American versions, posted in Business Insider, the best special forces in the world are in the USA. However, according to experts, this point of view is biased. To determine the best special forces in the world is possible only by simulating a real battle between one or another group. Besides, great importance have such factors as the age of the special forces, foreign policy state and its internal stability. For example, the Colombian "Hunglas", constantly opposing local drug cartels, has more experience than special forces in prosperous Belgium. Also, American units that went through Iraq and Afghanistan, and Russian - long time those who worked in the Caucasus, compared with the special forces of quiet Denmark, will be much more effective. Below are 10 the best special forces peace.

Pakistani SSG

In 1956, a detachment was formed which is known as the Special Servies Group. The British SAS and American special forces were taken as a model for the unit, with which joint exercises were conducted during the Cold War. Information on the number of personnel of the Pakistani special forces is not freely available. It is only known that the recruitment of fighters in the SSG is very thorough. Each of them must be fluent in hand-to-hand combat techniques. To do this, applicants undergo a nine-month training with exhausting physical exercises. According to experts, out of ten applicants, only two get into the group. The detachment is trained to perform specific tasks in the mountains, desert, jungle and under water. Afghanistan became the place for acquiring the first combat experience. Pakistani specialists on the side of the Mujahideen opposed their colleagues from Soviet Union. Over time, the SSG fighters made sabotage attacks against the border guards of India. Today, the group conducts anti-terrorist activities within the country and is among the top best special forces in the world.

About Israeli Sayeret Matkal

This formation is in ninth position among the best special forces units in the world. Sayeret Matkal has been functioning since 1957. According to experts, candidates for this unit enter after eighteen months of training courses. The list of disciplines includes the infantry school, parachuting and reconnaissance. Since 1960, Sayeret Matkal has taken part in some of the largest anti-terrorist operations. Operation Thunderbolt brought world fame to the Israeli special forces. Then the Palestinian terrorists hijacked an airliner with hostages. Many were released, but over a hundred were still held by the Palestinians at the airport. The soldiers of the special forces had to destroy the terrorists to free the hostages.

GIS. Italy

In the 1970s, after several terrorist attacks, the Carabinieri was formed elite squad, which is known today as the Gruppo di Speciale. Initially, the unit was created in response to a terrorist threat. Also, Italian specialists acted in Libya and Persian Gulf together with NATO colleagues. There are 150 people in the group. Some of them are professional snipers. Candidates are trained in shooting and various types hand-to-hand combat, including Wushu and Thai boxing.

USA. "Seals"

The special forces have been operating since 1962. The unit gained worldwide fame after 2011, when American specialists in Abbottabad eliminated Islamist leader Osama bin Laden. Only the best applicants with high physical and intellectual data get into the squad. Candidate training lasts for a year. Many applicants are eliminated because the standards are too high. Physical tests include swimming, running, sit-ups, and push-ups. Having passed them, the young man is sent for further training, after which he is awarded a qualification. Only after that, specialized courses are available to the candidate. As a result, the fighter of the unit is fully prepared to perform the most difficult tasks anywhere in the world.

About Canadian JTF 2

In sixth position among the best special forces in the world is Canada's elite unit JTF 2. The paramilitary structure was created in 1993. After the terrorist attack in September 2001, the personnel of the special forces expanded to include several hundred people. The backbone of the special forces was the military personnel of the Canadian Armed Forces. The range of activities is not limited only to countering terrorism and performing specific tasks on the territory of the country. The fighters of the Canadian elite formation are attracted to escort VIPs. In 2010, at the Olympic Winter Games, special forces ensured the security of this sporting event. In addition, Afghanistan, Iraq and Bosnia, where Canadian specialists were engaged in tracking down professional snipers from Serbia, became places for hidden activities of the fighters. According to experts, the level of secrecy is so high that even the Canadian Prime Minister is not aware of the tasks performed by JTF 2 employees.

USA. "Delta Force"

This formation is the first operational detachment of special purpose. In everyday life it is called "Delta". In addition to counter-terrorist operations and hostage rescue, the fighters carry out reconnaissance and attacks. The unit was formed from American special forces, Green Berets and Rangers in 1977 in response to the growing terrorist threat at that time.

Delta recruits people no older than 21 years old with high physical data. In addition, applicants must be mentally stable. Thanks to grueling physical and mental tests, the weak are eliminated immediately. Thus, out of 10 candidates, testing successfully adds up only one. After the young people, an intensive 6-month training course awaits. Despite the fact that all Delta activities are classified, according to experts, you can be sure that Delta Force is at the head of every operation for which America is responsible.

About French GIGN

This formation is the Intervention Group of the National Gendarmerie and occupies the 4th position in the top 10 best special forces in the world. Like most European special forces, the impetus for the creation of GIGN was a terrorist attack. It was made in 1972 at the Olympic Games in Munich. Prior to this event, a hostage-taking riot broke out in one of the French prisons. As a result, civilians were killed, and all of France was shocked. It became clear that the country needed such a force that could ensure the protection of its citizens.

The number of personnel of the GIGN special forces is 400 people. The formation works in two directions: rescuing hostages and countering terrorism. Since its inception, the French special forces have carried out many successful operations. The most high-profile cases were the rescue of several dozen schoolchildren in Djibouti, the capture of Bosnian war criminals, the neutralization of terrorists and the rescue of civilians in Marseille in 1994 on board 8969 Air France. In addition, GIGN successfully counters Somali pirates.

About the German GSG 9

This formation is ranked 3rd among the best special forces in the world. It has been operating since 1973. The unit was created in response to the Olympic terrorist attack in Munich. Soldiers of the German special forces resist terrorism, free hostages, protect VIPs and strategically important objects in the country. The personnel of the special formation is 300 people. By 2003, GSG 9 fighters had successfully completed more than 1,500 operations.

About the British SAS

According to experts, this formation surpassed the American Navy SEALs in terms of efficiency. SAS was created in 1941. The task of the group is to carry out sabotage activities deep behind enemy lines. The SAS opposed German and Italian forces and provided support to the local resistance movement. Special Forces recruitment is very strict. Candidates must be physically very developed and be able to make a 40-mile march. No more than 20 hours are given to overcome this distance. In addition, applicants must swim two miles in 120 minutes and run another four miles in half an hour. In the jungle, where young people are then thrown, they learn to survive in difficult conditions. At the end of the test, candidates have good navigational skills. The test ends with a 40-hour session, during which the instructors break their will. After successfully passing all the stages, the young man is sent to specialized courses. They are taken to MI 5 and MI 6. There, cadets are taught the intricacies of intelligence and counterintelligence.

Top leader

Every year Florida hosts the Super SWAT International Round-Up. Mostly among teams a large number of American police departments. Also frequent participating countries are Russia, Hungary, Brazil, Germany, Sweden and Kuwait. Despite the fact that, according to experts, even American units are often sued by the commission, and even a biased attitude towards other participants, the Russian Alfa always managed to occupy the top lines in the end. In 2013, similar competitions were held in Jordan. Fighters from China became the enemy of the veterans of the special forces of the FSB and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Russian snipers was given the highest score. According to many experts, Russian special forces are the best in the world. Alpha is considered an elite unit.

The formation gained worldwide fame after the successful assault on Amin's palace in Afghanistan. In 1985, in Beirut, the group was involved in the rescue of four diplomats from the Soviet Union. However, the hostages were executed. There are legends that after this event, the Alpha fighters hunted down the terrorists and destroyed them, returning the pieces to their relatives. This forced measure has become a kind of message for would-be terrorists. In Russia in 2002, the group worked in the Nord-Ost theater besieged by extremists, and in 2004 they were engaged in the release of hostages in one of the schools in Beslan. According to experts, in both episodes, the cruel nature of Russian specialists was manifested, since not only terrorists were destroyed, many civilians died. Officially, the unit is called Directorate "A" of the Special Forces Center of the FSB of the Russian Federation.

The group was formed in July 1974. Yuri Andropov was the initiator. Therefore, the unit is also called the Andropov Group. The Munich events of 1972 became the impetus for the formation of the Soviet special forces, as well as similar European paramilitary structures. According to experts, Alpha fighters have vast experience in countering terrorism, which other foreign structures do not have to such an extent.

Many people have heard the expression "elite troops" of Russia, but not everyone has an idea what this expression actually means. There are no clear criteria that would help classify this or that special unit as more prestigious. As a rule, such a rank is usually deserved by troops that are in full combat readiness every minute and have the greatest combat capability. Troops can also earn an honorary title among the people for displaying heroism and high professionalism in combat operations. IN Russian elite troops list, which is located below, included the most prestigious divisions based on surveys.

Opens a list of Russian elite troops. Main task special unit anti-terrorist measures are being taken. The detachments are engaged in the release of hostages, eliminate riots, and are also engaged in the elimination of illegal armed groups. Also, the competence of the National Guard Troops includes the neutralization and detention of criminals who pose a particular danger to society. The special forces of this detachment celebrate their official day on March 27th.

It belongs to the most prestigious troops of the fatherland. The creation of the Armed Forces took place in 1992 of the 20th century. The main function of the special unit is to protect the territory of the country, its integrity. The Sun has one of the largest reserves military equipment, as well as weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear. In 2017, the number of special forces military personnel amounted to just over a million people, and the mobilization resource is over 60 million. The recruitment of the Armed Forces occurs in two ways - conscription through the army and contract service. The state annually spends more than 3 trillion rubles annually on the development of the Armed Forces.

belongs by right to the most prestigious troops of the Russian Federation. He stands guard over the country, protecting it from attacks outside the land zone. The Navy is designed to conduct combat operations in the open spaces of the water. The navy has been guarding our state for more than three hundred years. In addition to the main tasks, the competence of the special unit includes ensuring the safety of maritime activities in the expanses of the World Ocean. The Navy possesses high firepower and a high range of destruction, which makes it possible to destroy the enemy at a great distance - up to several thousand meters.

The FSSP of Russia certainly belongs to the elite troops of the Russian Federation. It includes rapid response units, which are required to undergo special training. The FSSP is armed with automatic weapons and ensures the safety of ships, as well as personally guards the leadership Federal Service bailiffs.

Included in the list of elite troops of the country. The main tasks of the special forces are to detect and eliminate terrorist groups. Among other goals of the troops is the conduct of special measures on enemy territory.

They are considered one of the most elite troops of the Russian state. Airborne Troops are engaged in the implementation of special measures behind enemy lines. Also, the tasks of the special forces include the capture of enemy objects and the capture of the enemy. The selection for the landing force is strict in all respects. The future paratrooper should not only have good physical data, but also have a stable psycho-emotional background, since the military personnel of the Airborne Forces have to perform quite difficult tasks. The official creation of the special forces took place in 1992. The Airborne Forces actively participated in the Afghan, Chechen war, and also took part in hostilities with Georgia.

is elite special forces, which is in service with the Russian state. Refers to troops that are in constant and full combat readiness. The Strategic Missile Forces are armed with intercontinental ballistic missiles with warheads. The formation of the special forces took place in the middle of the last century. To date, the missile forces include 3 armies, which include 12 missile divisions. Strategic Missile Forces are armed with more than three hundred complexes of various types.

Opens the top three most elite troops of the Russian Federation. The armed forces are designed to conduct maritime operations, which include the conduct of hostilities with the capture of the enemy's coastline. In addition, the special unit performs other operations, including the protection of coastal areas. The main tasks of the Marine Corps are the conquest of coastal territories and their retention until the main forces approach. The special unit is part of the Russian Navy.

The elite, without any doubt, includes, whose main tasks are the defense of the state in the aerospace field, the detection and complete collapse of the enemy, as well as the reflection of hostilities from ballistic missiles. Also, the competence of the Aerospace Forces includes the identification of possible combat attacks by missiles and being in full combat readiness. A component of the Aerospace Forces are the Russian Space Forces. The main tasks of the last special unit are the observation of objects in space, as well as the timely detection and combat defeat of space threats.

Completes the ranking of the elite troops of the Russian Federation. The competence of the military unit includes the solution of tasks to ensure the protection of the presidential residence, namely the Moscow Kremlin. Also, a component of the FSO participates in protocol events and takes part in guards of honor. The presidential regiment was formed in 1993, the official day of which is May 7th.