Table of Contents
India’s Special Forces have carved an indomitable legacy in combat, excelling in high-risk missions while evolving with 21st-century battlefield demands. Renowned for their precision strikes and tactical brilliance, these units dominate:
- Irregular Warfare: Excelling in counterterrorism & covert ops
- Joint Operations: Seamless coordination across military branches
- Tech-Driven Tactics: Leveraging cutting-edge weaponry & Surveillance
- Humanitarian Roles: Leading disaster relief & crisis response
Of India’s seven premier Special Forces, three operate as autonomous strike units, while others function under strategic government mandates—all maintaining unmatched operational autonomy. Their adaptability and lethality cement India’s edge in global security arenas.
What are Special Forces?
Special Forces represent the pinnacle of military excellence—highly skilled units trained to execute precision tactical operations with strategic impact. These elite warriors specialise in counterterrorism, hostage rescue, and high-risk missions, leveraging:
- Holistic Training: Peak physical, mental, and psychological conditioning
- Cutting-Edge Tech: AI, cyber tools, drones, and next-gen battlefield systems
- Global Threat Analysis: Monitoring risks from ground to space
India’s Special Forces stand at the forefront, combining rigorous drills, adaptive planning, and robust logistics to neutralise emerging dangers. Below, explore the best of India’s elite units—trained to strike fast, vanish unseen, and win decisively.
1. Marine Commando Force (MARCOS)
The Marine Commando Force (MARCOS) is one of India’s most elite Special Forces, formed by the Indian Navy in 1987. Specially trained for amphibious warfare, special reconnaissance, direct action, and counter-terrorism operations, MARCOS is renowned for its exceptional combat skills and versatility in high-risk missions across land, air, and sea.
Training
- After completing a rigorous ten-week basic training program, the commandos move on to an even more challenging three-week advanced training course. This phase sharpens their skills and prepares them for high-intensity combat and specialised missions.
- Following this phase, the commandos undergo advanced training, equipped with specialised skills such as weapons handling, close-quarter battle techniques, and combat tactics suited for diverse terrains, including jungle, desert, and urban warfare.
Important Missions
MARCOS has been actively involved in numerous high-risk operations:
- Operation Tasha, launched in 1991, was a significant mission carried out by MARCOS to counter the activities of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The operation aimed to curb smuggling and militant infiltration along the coastal regions of Tamil Nadu, strengthening maritime security in the area.
- In 1992, Operation Zabardust was launched by the MARCOS to intercept a vessel suspected of smuggling weapons. The mission was crucial in preventing the illegal transport of arms and demonstrated the force’s efficiency in maritime interdiction operations.
- In 1993, Indian Special Forces, including MARCOS, took part in United Nations peacekeeping operations in Somalia. Their role was vital in restoring stability and delivering humanitarian assistance amidst the ongoing conflict, showcasing their commitment to global peace efforts.
- During the Kargil War in 1999, Indian Special Forces, including MARCOS, played a pivotal role in reclaiming key strategic positions from enemy infiltrators in the challenging mountainous terrain. Their remarkable courage, along with expert tactical execution, was instrumental in securing India’s victory in the conflict.
- Operation Black Tornado carried out in 2008 during the Mumbai attacks, saw Indian Special Forces execute a rapid and coordinated operation to rescue hostages and neutralise terrorists across multiple locations. The operation demonstrated their exceptional tactical expertise and swift response under intense pressure.
Duties of MARCOS
The responsibilities of MARCOS include:
- Carrying out specialised operations to counter terrorism.
- Conducting covert reconnaissance and surveillance operations.
- Assisting in amphibious warfare operations.
- Executing underwater diving missions and other covert operations within enemy territory.
2. Parachute Regiment Special Forces (PARA-SF)
Formed in June 1966, the Parachute Regiment Special Forces (PARA-SF) is the largest unit within the Indian Special Forces. Known for their elite training, these soldiers specialise in rapid deployments, enabling them to execute surprise attacks on the enemy from unexpected positions.
Training
- Enduring independently.
- Irregular warfare tactics.
- Moving through the mud on hands and knees.
- Enduring and navigating through dense jungle terrain.
- Mastering foreign languages enables soldiers to communicate efficiently in hostile environments. This skill enhances their ability to gather intelligence, blend in, and execute missions more effectively while remaining undetected.
- Strategising and carrying out missions in small, agile teams ensures quick and efficient operations. This method boosts flexibility and enables soldiers to react swiftly to dynamic situations.
Important Missions
PARA-SF has been involved in numerous critical missions, including:
- Operation Mandhol (1971) was a crucial and daring mission executed by the elite Para Special Forces (PARA-SF) of the Indian Army.
- Operation Pawan (1987) was a major military mission
- Operation Cactus (1988) was a strategic military intervention by India in the Maldives to restore stability during a coup attempt.
- Operation Apache–(2001) A significant military mission carried out in 2001, showcasing the Indian Armed Forces’ tactical strength and strategic planning.
- Kargil Conflict (1999) A crucial military engagement in 1999, during which India bravely pushed back intruders and safeguarded its borders with extraordinary valour and determination.
- Operation Khukri – Sierra Leone (2002) A daring mission executed by the Indian Army in Sierra Leone, aimed at rescuing trapped peacekeeping forces with exceptional skill and bravery.
Duties of the Parachute Regiment Special Forces
The Special Forces of the Parachute Regiment are entrusted with multiple critical responsibilities, such as:
- Conducting high-risk hostage rescue missions
- Engaging in specialised counter-terrorism missions with precision and expertise.
- Executing covert and high-priority reconnaissance operations to gather critical intelligence.
- Carrying out special operations and direct action missions whenever the situation demands.
- Conducting counter-insurgency operations to neutralise hostile threats and restore stability.
3. Garud Commando Force
The Garud Commando Force is a vital component of India’s elite Special Forces, established by the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 2004. Their core responsibilities include carrying out emergency rescue missions, assisting in critical air operations, and safeguarding key Air Force installations. Renowned for their versatile combat capabilities, the Garuds are on par with other top-tier units like the PARA Commandos and Marine Commandos in terms of skill and adaptability.
Training
- Qualified candidates selected for the Special Forces must complete an intensive 52-week training program designed to test their endurance, skills, and mental toughness.
- Throughout this rigorous training, candidates are taught survival tactics, special operations strategies, fundamental airborne skills, and several other combat-ready techniques essential for mission success.
Important Missions
The Garud Commando Force has successfully executed numerous critical missions, including:
- In 2004, the Garud Commando Force was deployed to Congo as part of a United Nations peacekeeping mission, showcasing their elite capabilities in maintaining global peace and security.
- They collaborate with the Indian Army’s Special Forces in Jammu and Kashmir, gaining critical hands-on experience in real-time combat and counter-insurgency operations.
- Garud Commandos were instrumental in the counter-operation during the 2016 Pathankot attack, demonstrating their swift response and tactical expertise in neutralising threats.
Duties of the Garud Special Forces
The Garud Special Forces are entrusted with several critical duties, which include:
- Performing vital peacetime operations, including the protection of air bases and other strategic assets against potential terrorist threats.
- Executing high-risk missions such as hostage rescues, anti-hijacking operations, and counter-terrorism strikes with precision and efficiency.
- Conducting specialised operations to neutralise enemy air defence systems, ensuring air superiority and mission success during combat scenarios.
- In times of war, Garud commandos take on crucial roles such as combat control, disrupting enemy radar systems, and providing support with missiles and ammunition logistics.
- They are also responsible for rescuing pilots stranded in enemy territory, managing air traffic operations at airbases, and assisting in the construction of airbases in difficult and remote regions.
- Their mission involves targeting and eliminating enemy assets, as well as disrupting hostile air defence systems and radar infrastructure to gain a tactical advantage.
- They assess the effectiveness of Indian airstrikes and utilise laser designators to precisely guide Indian offensive operations toward enemy targets.
4. National Security Guard (NSG)
The National Security Guard (NSG) serves as India’s premier counter-terrorism unit, playing a vital role in safeguarding national security. It is responsible for conducting anti-sabotage operations, protecting VIPS, and eliminating terrorist threats. Comprising over 7,500 highly trained personnel, the NSG is structured into three key divisions: the Special Rangers Group (SRG), Special Composite Group (SCG), and Special Action Group (SAG).
Training
- Candidates are required to undergo two levels of training—a basic training course followed by an advanced training program to enhance their skills and preparedness.
- The initial training spans over fourteen months and is conducted at the Commando Training Centre, where recruits build the foundation of their combat skills and discipline.
- Following nine months of basic training, candidates move on to advanced training specifically designed for the National Security Guard (NSG), where they refine their tactical abilities and specialised combat skills.
Important Missions
The NSG is entrusted with several high-priority missions, including:
- Operation Black Thunder – 1986 A significant counter-terror operation launched in 1986, where NSG commandos successfully neutralised militants holed up in the Golden Temple complex with minimal collateral damage.
- Operation Ashwamedh – 1993 A swift and successful mission carried out in 1993, where NSG commandos rescued hostages from a hijacked Indian Airlines flight, showcasing their expertise in anti-hijacking operations.
- Operation Vajra Shakti – 2002 A critical mission executed in 2002, where NSG commandos swiftly responded to the terrorist attack on the Akshardham Temple in Gujarat, effectively neutralising the attackers and restoring public safety.
- Operation Black Tornado – 2008 A landmark counter-terrorism operation conducted in 2008, where NSG commandos led the charge to eliminate terrorists during the Mumbai attacks, showcasing remarkable bravery and tactical precision.
- Engagement in combat operations in Jammu and Kashmir, where special forces conduct high-risk missions to counter insurgency and maintain national security.
Duties of the National Security Guard (NSG)
The National Security Guard functions under the direct authority of the National Security Advisor and is overseen by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Their key responsibilities encompass:
- Engaging in specialised missions to combat terrorism and neutralise imminent threats to national security.
- Ensuring the security and protection of high-profile individuals, including VIPS and dignitaries, against potential threats.
- Providing security to the Prime Minister of India and other high-ranking officials during their international visits, ensuring their safety and protection abroad.
- Countering terrorist threats and managing hijacking crises with precision, speed, and strategic expertise.
- Safeguarding Indian states against hostile attacks, controlling internal disturbances, and executing high-risk targeted operations when necessary.
- Assisting specialised armed units by delivering critical intelligence on strategic locations and logistics, ensuring efficient planning and execution of operations.
- Maintaining security across India’s coastal regions, ports, and commercial shipping lanes, safeguarding them from potential threats and unlawful activities.
- Ensuring the security of Indian High Commissions overseas and protecting Indian citizens visiting diplomatic offices and missions in foreign nations.
- Providing comprehensive security to foreign dignitaries visiting India, including heads of state, diplomats, government representatives, and prominent business leaders, to ensure their safety during their stay.
- Securing Indian border outposts in strategically important regions, particularly along the land frontiers shared with Pakistan, China, and Bangladesh, to ensure national territorial integrity.
5. Ghatak Force
The Ghatak Force ranks among India’s elite Special Forces, renowned for its fearless infantry units that spearhead assaults ahead of their battalions. Every infantry battalion in the Indian Army includes a dedicated platoon of Ghatak soldiers, who are exceptionally trained and equipped to operate in the most challenging combat scenarios.
Training
- Commandos are evaluated through rigorous speed marches, where they cover distances ranging from 20 to 60 kilometres in full battle gear to test their endurance, strength, and combat readiness.
- Based on their assigned roles and duties, selected candidates undergo advanced training in close-quarter combat, equipping them with the skills needed for high-intensity and confined engagements.
- They are also required to master counter-ambush strategies, demolition techniques, bomb disposal procedures, and swift, precision-based tactical shooting to effectively handle high-risk situations.
While the majority of commandos do not hold parachute qualifications, it is mandatory for all infantry officers to successfully complete the parachute training course as part of their military preparation.
Important Missions
The Ghatak Force is assigned several critical missions, which include the following:
- Kargil Conflict – 1999 A significant military engagement in which Indian forces reclaimed occupied territories with remarkable bravery and strategic precision against infiltrating adversaries.
- Operation Vijay – 1999 A major military campaign launched by India in 1999 to drive out enemy forces from the Kargil region, showcasing the valor and tactical strength of the Indian Armed Forces.
- Searched and destroyed mission targeting insurgents in Dubri village, located in Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir, aiming to neutralise hostile elements and restore security in the region.
- An intense confrontation with Chinese forces occurred in the Galwan Valley on June 15, 2020, marking a significant border standoff between India and China.
Duties of the Ghatak Force
The primary role of the Ghatak Force is to act as heavily armed spearheads during military operations or conflicts. Their responsibilities include:
- Carrying out specialised surveillance and intelligence-gathering missions in high-risk or sensitive areas.
- Executing targeted assaults on enemy artillery sites and airbases to disrupt their operational capabilities.
- Operating in high-risk scenarios such as hostage rescues, terrorist attacks, and executing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency missions with precision and expertise.
- Directing airstrikes and artillery fire toward strategic targets located deep within enemy lines, ensuring maximum impact and operational success.
Conclusion
India is home to multiple elite Special Forces units, each possessing distinct skills and specialised capabilities. From the Marine Commandos (MARCOS) to the National Security Guard (NSG), these forces are trained to undertake high-stakes missions such as counter-terrorism, surveillance, and guerrilla warfare. Their intensive and demanding training regimens equip them to operate in extreme environments and tackle complex threats. The unwavering dedication and strategic expertise of these elite units are vital to safeguarding India’s national security and upholding its sovereignty.
