What branches of the military have special forces?
Special forces units are elite military units that are trained and equipped to perform a wide range of specialized missions. These units are typically composed of highly skilled soldiers who undergo rigorous training to excel in their respective areas of expertise. While many countries have their own special forces, the United States, Russia, and the United Kingdom are among the most prominent in terms of the number and variety of special forces branches. Here, we will explore the special forces branches of these three nations.
The United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM)
The United States has a robust special forces network, primarily under the jurisdiction of the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). USSOCOM oversees several special forces branches, including:
1. Delta Force (1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta): Known for its involvement in high-risk missions, Delta Force is often referred to as America’s “black ops” unit.
2. Naval Special Warfare Command (NSWC): This branch includes the Navy SEALs, who are renowned for their roles in amphibious operations, counter-terrorism, and special reconnaissance missions.
3. Army Special Forces (Green Berets): These soldiers are highly trained in unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, and direct action missions.
4. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC): AFSOC is responsible for special operations aviation, including the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), also known as the “Night Stalkers.”
5. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC): MARSOC focuses on special operations capabilities unique to the Marine Corps, such as amphibious operations and counter-insurgency.
The Russian Armed Forces Special Operations Forces
Russia has a long history of special forces units, with several branches that are part of the Russian Armed Forces Special Operations Forces. Some of the notable branches include:
1. Spetsnaz (Special Purpose Forces): This is the most famous and oldest special forces unit in Russia, known for its involvement in various conflicts and peacekeeping missions.
2. VDV (Vozdushno-Desantnye Voyska): The Russian Airborne Troops are a highly mobile and versatile force, capable of rapid deployment and conducting airborne operations.
3. FSO (Federal Security Service Special Operations Forces): This unit is responsible for counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations within Russia.
4. GRU (Main Intelligence Directorate): The GRU has its own special forces units, which are primarily focused on intelligence gathering and covert operations.
The British Armed Forces Special Forces
The United Kingdom has a number of special forces branches that are part of the Joint Special Forces Command (JSFC). These branches include:
1. SAS (Special Air Service): The SAS is one of the world’s most elite special forces units, known for its counter-terrorism, direct action, and special reconnaissance missions.
2. SBS (Special Boat Service): The SBS is a maritime special forces unit that specializes in amphibious operations, counter-terrorism, and special reconnaissance.
3. RAF Regiment (RAF Regt.): This unit is the Royal Air Force’s special forces branch, responsible for providing aviation support to other special forces units.
4. SBSR (Special Boat Service Royal Marines): The SBSR is a Royal Marines unit that operates alongside the SBS and specializes in maritime operations.
In conclusion, the special forces branches of the United States, Russia, and the United Kingdom are among the most renowned and versatile in the world. These elite units are tasked with a wide range of missions, from counter-terrorism to unconventional warfare, and play a crucial role in ensuring the security and defense of their respective nations.
