Indian Special Forces: Details, Differences and Similarities

India’s military is renowned for its disciplined and formidable forces, with its Special Forces representing the pinnacle of elite soldiers. The Para Special Forces (Para SF), Marine Commandos (MARCOS), and Garud Commandos stand out as the most specialized and skilled units within the Indian Armed Forces. These units are celebrated for their rigorous training, exceptional capabilities, and successful operations across diverse terrains and challenging situations.

In this comprehensive article, we dive deep into the origins, mandates, capabilities, training, command structures, and operational triumphs of these three elite forces. Discover the unique aspects and shared strengths of the Para SF, MARCOS, and Garud Commandos, and explore what makes them truly exceptional.

Raising of the Forces

Para Special Forces (Para SF)

The Indian Army’s Parachute units are among the oldest airborne forces globally, with the 50th Indian Parachute Brigade established on 27 October 1941. This brigade originally included the British 151st Parachute Battalion, the Indian 152nd Parachute Battalion, and the 153rd Gurkha Parachute Battalion. In 1952, the Parachute Regiment was formed, comprising these units and others, eventually expanding to ten battalions, including Special Forces units. During the 1947-48 Jammu and Kashmir operations, the 50th Parachute Brigade’s battalions earned battle honors in key battles like Shelatang, Naushera, Jhangar, and Poonch. The regiment further distinguished itself during the 1965 Indo-Pakistani War with the formation of the Meghdoot Force, which led to official formation of the Para SF as a distinct Special Forces unit in 1966.

The regiment’s expansion continued with the conversion of 1 PARA to a Special Forces unit in 1978 and the creation of additional Special Forces battalions like 21 PARA in 1996. Later on, the strength of Para SF has been raised to a total 15 battalions to enhance the Indian Army’s airborne and special operations capabilities especially in counter insurgency operations and operations behind enemy lines as and when required.

Marine Commandos (MARCOS)

The Indian military established a diving school in Cochin in 1955, with help from the British Special Boat Service, to train combat divers in skills like explosive disposal, clearance, and salvage diving. In late 80’s, when oil was discovered in the Bombay high, Navy felt need of specialized unit which can provide security to oil fields in case of any sabotage mission. In April 1986, the Indian Navy began planning a special forces unit for maritime missions, raids, reconnaissance, and counter-terrorism operations. Three volunteer officers from the original 1955 diving unit were selected for training with the U.S. Navy SEALs and the Special Boat Service. This led to the creation of the Indian Marine Special Force (IMSF) in February 1987, with these officers as its first members. In 1991, the IMSF was renamed the Marine Commando Force (MARCOS). MARCOS was modeled after similar elite units worldwide, such as the US Navy SEALs and the British Special Boat Service (SBS).

Garud Commando Force

The youngest among India’s special forces, the Garud Commando Force, was raised in 2004. In aftermath of terrorist attacks on two major air bases of the IAF, they recognized the necessity for a specialized force capable of conducting airfield seizures, rescue missions, and counter-terrorism operations, particularly in hostile environments. Initially conceptualized in October 2001 as the “Tiger Force,” this unit was later renamed the “Garud Force.” The Government of India authorized the creation of a 1,080-strong force in September 2003, designed to perform Air Force-specific operational tasks, similar to the Army’s Para SF and the Navy’s MARCOS.

The first group of 100 volunteers began their training at the IAF No.1 Airmen Training Center in Belgaum, Karnataka, with specialized Garud Training taking place in Gurgaon. On February 6, 2004, the first batch of 62 Garud commandos graduated, and they made their public debut during the Air Force Day celebrations in New Delhi on October 8, 2004. Following the Pathankot Terror Attack, the Indian Air Force decided to expand the Garud Force by raising ten additional squadrons, increasing its total strength to close to 2000 personnel.

Also Read, Is Tavor Still Good Enough For Our Special Forces?

Capabilities and Mandates

Para Special Forces (Para SF)

The Para SF is designed to operate behind enemy lines and conduct a wide range of unconventional warfare, including direct action, hostage rescue, counter-insurgency, and sabotage. Their capabilities extend to high-altitude operations, jungle warfare, desert warfare, and urban combat. The Para SF’s primary mandate is to execute high-risk missions that require stealth, surprise, and speed. They are often deployed in sensitive and hostile environments where conventional forces may not be able to operate effectively.

Marine Commandos (MARCOS)

MARCOS specializes in maritime operations, including underwater demolition, amphibious assaults, maritime reconnaissance, and anti-piracy missions. They are also trained in land-based operations, enabling them to operate in coastal and riverine areas. The mandate of MARCOS includes conducting special operations in support of naval campaigns, counter-terrorism operations in maritime environments, and providing security to offshore assets and critical infrastructure. MARCOS is also capable of executing rescue missions and boarding operations on hostile ships.

Garud Commando Force

The Garud Commando Force is tasked with a range of responsibilities, including securing air bases, conducting combat search and rescue (CSAR) operations, providing close air support, and participating in counter-terrorism missions. Garuds are trained to operate in both defensive and offensive roles, making them versatile in various combat scenarios. Their mandate includes protecting IAF assets, neutralizing enemy air defenses, and providing air support to ground troops during joint operations.

Training and Selection

Para Special Forces (Para SF)

Induction and Selection Process

All Indian Army personnel can volunteer for the Special Forces, entering either as rookies or transferring from regular army units. The selection process includes a three-month probation period for Para S.F (Special Forces) battalions. Soldiers must first qualify as Paratroopers before advancing to SF selection, which occurs twice a year. The Para (SF) battalions, such as the 10 Para (SF) “Desert Scorpions” and 9 Para (SF) mountain warfare specialists, have specific training programs. Initially, battalions were specialized by terrain, but they are now trained for various conditions.

Volunteers, regardless of rank, undergo a probation period of three to six months. During this time, soldiers and officers are stripped of their ranks and they are just ‘probies’. Any probationer can leave the course at anytime as the joining the Para SF is completely voluntary. The selection rate is always less than 5% while reaching far below to even 2% in some batches. The probationers are trained in specializing in skills like weapons handling, communication, and medical procedures. Para (SF) operates in small teams focused on strategic tasks, and successful candidates continue with further training to earn the prestigious Balidan Badge before deployment.

90-Day Selection Training

The 90-day selection involves intense physical and skills training. The first 35 days focus on rigorous exercises and essential skills. A 36-hour stress test on Day 45 challenges the probationers’ endurance with a combination of physical and mental exercises under extreme conditions. By Day 56, candidates must complete a 100 km endurance run. The final stage, between Days 60 and 90, is the toughest and focuses on Counter-Terrorism Operations. Successful candidates who complete the probation period receive their maroon berets and undergo a glass-eating tradition as a rite of passage.

Marine Commandos (MARCOS)

Selection Process

MARCOS, the elite marine commandos of the Indian Navy, are chosen through a highly rigorous selection process. Prospective candidates, typically in their early 20s, must first undergo a three-day physical fitness and aptitude test. This initial phase eliminates about 80% of applicants. Those who pass proceed to “Hell’s Week,” a grueling screening process inspired by the U.S. Navy SEALs’ Hell Week, which involves extreme physical exertion and sleep deprivation. Even after this stage, the dropout rate remains high, with 80-85% of volunteers failing to fully qualify as MARCOS. This stringent selection ensures that only the most physically and mentally resilient individuals move on to the actual training phase.

Training Process

The training of MARCOS is a continuous, multi-phase program lasting between seven and eight months. Initially set up with the assistance of American and British special forces, the training regimen covers a wide array of skills and operations. Recruits are trained in airborne operations, combat diving, counter-terrorism, anti-piracy, direct action, and special reconnaissance, among other tactics. Training primarily takes place at INS Abhimanyu, with specialized sessions conducted at various Indian Army schools for unconventional warfare.

MARCOS personnel undergo intensive weapons training, learning to handle a diverse range of arms and engaging in physically demanding exercises, such as the “death crawl” and underwater infiltration. Advanced skills include demolitions, intelligence training, and operation of submersible craft. The commandos are also qualified in High Altitude Low Opening (HALO) and High Altitude High Opening (HAHO) parachuting, capable of conducting para-drops into the sea with full combat gear.

Further training includes counter-terrorism drills, urban warfare simulations, and operations from submarines. MARCOS are also prepared for rapid-response missions, utilizing new systems like the duck-drop for quick assembly of motorized boats post para-drop. Their continuous training ensures they are capable of handling diverse and high-risk operations, from jungle warfare to urban combat.

Also Read, Can An Agniveer Join The Special Forces?

Garud Commando Force

Induction and Selection

Unlike the Army and Navy, Garud Commandos are recruited directly through airmen selection centers via advertisements, not from volunteers of other branches. Eligible candidates undergo rigorous physical training with only one chance to qualify as a Garud trainee. Successful recruits are absorbed into the Commando force and remain in this stream throughout their career, ensuring the force retains its highly trained personnel.

Training

Garud Commandos undergo extensive training, starting with a 72-week course, the longest among Indian special forces. Training begins with a three-month probationary phase at the Garud Regimental Training Centre, Hindon, Ghaziabad, which has a high attrition rate. Subsequent training includes special operations training by the Special Frontier Force, Army’s Para SF, NSG, and basic airborne training at the Parachute Training School in Agra. Trainees also receive specialized training in jungle and snow survival, demolition, diving, and counter-insurgency at various army and navy schools. The final phase involves active operations with the Rashtriya Rifles of the Indian Army, giving Garuds operational experience. After induction, commandos continue advanced training in areas like anti-hijack tactics, specialized weapon handling, and advanced diving skills.

Command Structure

Para Special Forces (Para SF)

The Para SF operates under the command of the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment. The unit reports to the Directorate General of Military Operations (DGMO) during peacetime and to the relevant theater commander during operations. The command structure is hierarchical, with officers and non-commissioned officers (NCOs) holding critical leadership roles.

Marine Commandos (MARCOS)

MARCOS is part of the Indian Navy’s Special Operations Command and reports directly to the Naval Headquarters during peacetime. During operations, they operate under the command of the relevant naval command, such as the Western or Eastern Naval Command. The unit maintains a flat command structure to allow for rapid decision-making during critical operations.

Garud Commando Force

The Garud Commando Force operates under the Indian Air Force’s Directorate of Operations. They report to the Air Headquarters during peacetime and to the relevant theater command during operations. The command structure is designed to facilitate quick deployment and coordination with other branches of the military.

Weapons and Equipment

Para Special Forces (Para SF)

The Para SF is equipped with a variety of sophisticated weapons and equipment, tailored for different types of operations. Their arsenal includes:

Assault Rifles: Tavor TAR-21, AK-47, M4A1 Carbine

Sniper Rifles: Dragunov SVD, Barrett M95

Submachine Guns: Heckler & Koch MP5, Uzi

Pistols: Glock 17, Beretta 92

Rocket Launcher: RL MkIII 84mm Recoilless Rifle, Carl Gustaf Recoilless Rifle Mk4

LMG: IWI Negev, PKM general purpose machine Gun

Explosives: C-4, Claymore mines

Specialized Gear: Night vision goggles, body armor, tactical communication systems

Marine Commandos (MARCOS)

MARCOS is equipped with weapons suitable for both maritime and land-based operations. Their equipment includes:

Assault Rifles: INSAS, AK-103, M4A1 Carbine

Sniper Rifles: Heckler & Koch PSG1, Dragunov SVD

Submachine Guns: Heckler & Koch MP5, Uzi

Pistols: Glock 17, SIG Sauer P226

Underwater Weapons: Heckler & Koch P11 (underwater pistol), MP5SD (suppressed SMG)

Specialized Gear: Diving equipment, rebreathers, underwater communication systems, and inflatable boats

Garud Commando Force

Garud commandos use a mix of air force-specific and general infantry weapons. Their inventory includes:

Assault Rifles: Tavor TAR-21, M4A1 Carbine, AK-47

Sniper Rifles: Galil Sniper, Dragunov SVD

Submachine Guns: MP5, Uzi

LMG: IWI Negev

Pistols: Glock 17, SIG Sauer P226

Explosives: Hand grenades, IEDs

Specialized Gear: Airfield defense systems, night vision devices, tactical helmets, and advanced communication systems.

Successful Operations

Para Special Forces (Para SF)

The Para SF has a long history of successful operations, both within India and abroad. Notable operations include:

Operation Bluestar (1984): Successfully stormed the Golden Temple in Amritsar to eliminate militants.

Operation Khukri (2000): Rescued over 200 Indian peacekeepers held hostage by rebels in Sierra Leone.

Surgical Strikes (2016): Crossed the LoC to destroy terrorist launch pads in PoK, a significant success in India’s counter-terrorism efforts.

Marine Commandos (MARCOS)

MARCOS has been instrumental in several key operations, including:

26/11 Mumbai Attacks (2008): Played a critical role in neutralizing terrorists during the Mumbai attacks, particularly at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and Nariman House.

Operation Rahat (2015): Successfully evacuated Indian and foreign nationals from war-torn Yemen, showcasing their versatility and effectiveness in non-combat operations.

Anti-Piracy Operations: Conducted successful anti-piracy missions in the Gulf of Aden, protecting Indian and international shipping from piracy.

Garud Commando Force

Despite being a relatively new force, Garud commandos have proven their mettle in several operations:

Pathankot Attack (2016): Played a crucial role in neutralizing terrorists who had attacked the Pathankot Air Force Station, preventing significant damage to critical assets.

Operation Rakshak: Participated in counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir, demonstrating their ability to operate in hostile environments.

UN Peacekeeping Missions: Deployed in United Nations peacekeeping missions, providing security and support in conflict zones, furthering India’s global peacekeeping contributions. In addition to military-controlled special forces, there are specialized units operating under civilian authorities. One such unit is the National Security Guard (NSG), which falls under the Home Ministry and is renowned for its counter-terrorism capabilities, earning the nickname ‘Black Cats’ due to its distinctive black uniforms. Similarly, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) oversees its own elite units, including the Special Group and the Special Frontier Force. The Special Frontier Force, established in 1962, was designed to safeguard India’s eastern borders and conduct covert cross-border operations. Meanwhile, the Special Group, created in 1981, serves as a secretive unit responsible for intelligence and covert operations that the Government of India may prefer to distance itself from publicly. Together, these forces play critical roles in national security, operating across different domains and under various authorities.