The Most Advanced Special Force, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the special force you think is the most advanced!

Updated on Apr 30, 2024 06:16

In the intricate world of security and defense, the capabilities of special forces units are often shrouded in secrecy, making it challenging for enthusiasts and experts alike to gauge which groups are at the forefront of tactical advancements. Yet, understanding which forces are pushing the boundaries of military innovation is crucial for a comprehensive grasp of global security dynamics. Comprehensively ranking these units offers clarity and insight into the sophisticated world of international defense. By participating in the live ranking, users engage with a dynamic process, contributing to a collective understanding of each force's strengths and unique capabilities. This ongoing voting activity allows the community to continuously adjust and refine their views based on new information or developments. Such interaction not only enriches users' understanding but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the strategic complexities of modern warfare.

What Is the Most Advanced Special Force?

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Camera Operator: PH2 JEFFREY LOSHAW · Public domain

United States Navy SEALs

President John F. Kennedy

They are known for their rigorous training, combat experience, and versatility. They are often involved in high-profile missions such as the capture of Osama Bin Laden.
The United States Navy SEALs (Sea, Air, and Land Teams) is a highly specialized and elite branch of the United States Navy. They were established on January 1, 1962, by President John F. Kennedy in response to unconventional warfare threats around the world.

Mission: Conducting special operations in maritime, jungle, desert, urban, arctic, and mountainous environments.

Selection Process: Rigorous training including physical fitness, swimming, combat diving, parachuting, and small-unit tactics.

Team Structure: Divided into smaller teams, including the legendary SEAL Team Six (DEVGRU), responsible for counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency activities.

Capability: Versatile and capable of conducting missions such as reconnaissance, direct action, counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and unconventional warfare.

Weaponry: Equipped with advanced firearms, explosives, and specialized equipment for different environments.
United States Navy SEALs in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most difficult branch of the military to get into
- Position 2 of 10 in Most difficult military branch
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28
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British SAS

The British SAS is the oldest special forces unit in the world and has been involved in numerous conflicts, including the Gulf War and the War on Terror. They are considered one of the most elite and secretive special forces units in the world.
The British SAS (Special Air Service) is a renowned special forces unit of the British Army. It is considered one of the most advanced and elite special forces in the world, specializing in counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and direct action missions.

Role: Special forces, counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and direct action

Selection Process: Highly rigorous and demanding selection process

Size: Approximately 200 active personnel

Training: Intense and comprehensive training, covering various special warfare tactics and techniques

Operations: Global reach, with missions conducted both domestically and internationally
British SAS in other rankings
- Position 8 of 10 in Most difficult military branch
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16
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Russian Special Forces

The Russian Special Forces are known for their intense training and combat experience, particularly in the Chechen Wars. They are also known for their close ties to the Russian government and intelligence agencies.
The Russian Special Forces, also known as Spetsnaz, is a highly advanced and elite military force within the Russian Armed Forces. They are renowned for their exceptional training, combat skills, and operational capabilities.

Units: There are several units within the Russian Special Forces, including the Alpha Group, Vympel, and Special Operations Forces.

Training: The training provided to the Russian Special Forces personnel is extremely rigorous and includes various aspects such as marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat, parachuting, diving, survival skills, and intelligence gathering.

Missions: The Russian Special Forces are trained to carry out a wide range of missions, including counterterrorism operations, intelligence gathering, sabotage, reconnaissance, and unconventional warfare.

Equipment: They are equipped with technologically advanced weapons, communication systems, surveillance equipment, and specialized gear for various types of operations.

Experience: The Russian Special Forces have gained extensive combat experience through involvement in various conflicts, including the Soviet-Afghan War, Chechen Wars, and more recent conflicts in Ukraine and Syria.
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Israeli Special Forces

The Israeli Special Forces are known for their expertise in counter-terrorism and unconventional warfare. They have a reputation for being highly skilled and effective in their operations.
The Israeli Special Forces is a renowned and highly skilled military unit specializing in counter-terrorism, intelligence gathering, and unconventional warfare tactics. It comprises a diverse range of elite units within the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Sayeret Matkal: Israel's premier special forces unit, specializing in intelligence gathering and covert operations.

Shayetet 13: Navy commando unit specializing in maritime and underwater counter-terrorism and reconnaissance.

Shaldag Unit: Air force commando unit focused on airborne special operations, including counter-terrorism and reconnaissance.

Duvdevan Unit: Special unit primarily engaged in undercover operations, urban warfare, and anti-terrorist activities.

669 Unit: Air force search and rescue (SAR) unit that also conducts special missions behind enemy lines.
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20
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French Foreign Legion

King Louis Philippe

The French Foreign Legion is a unique special forces unit made up of volunteers from around the world. They are known for their rigorous training and willingness to take on dangerous missions.
The French Foreign Legion is a renowned special forces unit that is a part of the French Army. It was established on March 9, 1831, by King Louis Philippe and continues to be a vital component of French military operations. The Legion is composed of foreign volunteers from various countries around the world, and its primary role is to conduct missions ranging from combat operations to humanitarian assistance.

Formation: March 9, 1831

Country: France

Role: Special Forces

Composition: Foreign volunteers

Missions: Combat operations, humanitarian assistance
French Foreign Legion in other rankings
- Position 6 of 10 in Most fun branch of the military
- Position 7 of 10 in Most difficult military branch
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8
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German KSK

The German KSK is known for its specialized training in counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and urban warfare. They have been involved in numerous missions around the world.
The German KSK (Kommando Spezialkräfte) is the most advanced special force of Germany, specializing in counter-terrorism, special reconnaissance, and unconventional warfare. It is known for its exceptional training, high level of secrecy, and strict selection process. The KSK operates under the Bundeswehr Special Operations Division and is highly respected for its operational capabilities and professionalism.

Formation Year: 1996

Training Duration: 1-2 years

Selection Rate: Less than 10%

Size: Approximately 1,100 personnel

Missions: Counter-terrorism, special reconnaissance, unconventional warfare
German KSK in other rankings
- Position 10 of 10 in Most fun branch of the military
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10
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Australian SAS

The Australian SAS is known for their expertise in unconventional warfare and counter-terrorism. They have been involved in numerous conflicts, including the War in Afghanistan.
The Australian Special Air Service Regiment (SAS) is an elite special operations force of the Australian Army. It is one of the most advanced special forces in the world, specializing in unconventional warfare, counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and direct action missions.

Selection Process: Rigorous selection process that includes physical and psychological assessments.

Training: Intense and demanding training programs that focus on combat skills, marksmanship, survival, and evasion tactics.

Small Team Operations: Operates in small teams of highly trained soldiers for greater flexibility and effectiveness.

Specializations: Expertise in various disciplines including parachuting, diving, close quarters combat, and covert surveillance.

Counter-Terrorism Capability: Highly skilled in counter-terrorism operations and hostage rescue missions.
Australian SAS in other rankings
- Position 7 of 10 in Most fun branch of the military
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6
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Canadian Joint Task Force 2

The Canadian Joint Task Force 2 is a highly secretive special forces unit that specializes in counter-terrorism and hostage rescue. They have been involved in numerous missions around the world.
The Canadian Joint Task Force 2 (JTF2) is an elite special operations force that operates under the Canadian Armed Forces. Established in 1993, it is considered one of the most advanced special forces in the world and is primarily tasked with counter-terrorism operations and special reconnaissance.

Size: Approximately 600 highly trained personnel.

Equipment: Utilizes advanced weaponry, surveillance technology, and specialized vehicles and aircraft.

Specialization: Counter-terrorism and special reconnaissance.

Selection Process: Rigorous selection process including physical and mental assessments.

Training: Intensive training in various specialized skills such as close quarters combat, marksmanship, explosive ordnance disposal, and parachuting.
Canadian Joint Task Force 2 in other rankings
- Position 9 of 10 in Most difficult military branch
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5
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Indian MARCOS

The Indian MARCOS are known for their expertise in maritime operations and counter-terrorism. They have been involved in numerous missions, including the Mumbai attacks.
The Indian MARCOS (Marine Commandos) is one of the most advanced special forces in India. They specialize in maritime and amphibious operations, with a primary focus on counter-terrorism, direct action, and special reconnaissance missions.

Established: 1987

Motto: The Few The Fearless

Selection Process: Extremely rigorous and demanding

Training Duration: More than two and a half years

Weapons: Assault rifles, sniper rifles, light machine guns, explosives, knives
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11
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대한민국 국군 Republic of Korea Armed Forces · CC BY-SA 2.0

South Korean Special Forces

Republic of Korea Army

The South Korean Special Forces are known for their expertise in unconventional warfare and counter-terrorism. They have been involved in numerous missions, including the rescue of hostages from Somali pirates.
The South Korean Special Forces is a highly advanced and elite military unit that is specifically trained to carry out specialized and high-risk operations. The unit is known for its exceptional combat skills, extensive training, and cutting-edge tactics.

Established: 1958

Motto: Sine Pari - Without Equal

Size: Approximately 30,000 personnel

Selection Process: Rigorous and highly competitive

Training Duration: Nearly 40 weeks

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Discussion

Ranking factors for advanced special force

Training and selection process

Evaluate the rigor and intensity of the training program, the criteria for selection, and the dropout rate. The best special forces typically have a challenging and thorough training process that covers a wide range of skills and tactics.
Operational experience

Consider the missions and conflicts the special forces have been involved in, as well as their record of success. The more experience a unit has, the more likely they are to have refined their tactics and abilities.
Equipment and technology

Investigate the quality and variety of weapons, vehicles, communications, and other gear that the special forces have access to. Cutting-edge technology and equipment can provide significant advantages to a military unit.
International reputation

Consider the opinions of experts and military analysts on the effectiveness of the special forces. A strong reputation can attract better recruits, partnerships with other elite units, and additional resources.
Interoperability

Evaluate how well the special forces can work with other units, both from their own nation and international partners. Collaboration and adaptability are important in many modern military operations.
Physical fitness and mental toughness

Assess the physical and mental fortitude of the special forces members. High levels of fitness and mental resilience are critical for success in challenging and high-stress situations.
Stealth and infiltration capabilities

Consider the skills and tactics the special forces employ to operate covertly and infiltrate enemy territory. Stealth and secrecy are often crucial components of special forces missions.
Adaptability and innovation

Examine the special forces unit's ability to adapt, problem-solve, and innovate in high-pressure situations. A unit's adaptability and resourcefulness can be crucial in overcoming unexpected challenges.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most advanced special force. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or special force is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1918 views
193 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each special force once every 24 hours. The rank of each special force is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most advanced special force

Background Information: What is the Most Advanced Special Force? Special forces have always been an intriguing topic for people around the world. These elite military units are known for their exceptional skills, rigorous training, and unmatched bravery. While every special force has its own unique set of skills and abilities, some are considered to be the most advanced and highly trained units in the world. The most advanced special forces are those that have undergone extensive training programs, possess cutting-edge technology and weaponry, and have a track record of successful missions. These forces are often called upon to carry out complex and dangerous missions that require a high level of expertise and precision. With the ever-evolving nature of warfare and terrorism, the need for highly trained special forces has become more critical than ever before. These forces are called upon to carry out a range of tasks, from hostage rescue missions to counterterrorism operations, and everything in between. Some of the most advanced special forces in the world include the US Navy SEALs, the British SAS, the Russian Spetsnaz, the Israeli Mossad, and the French GIGN. These forces are renowned for their exceptional skills, advanced training, and ability to complete missions with precision and efficiency. In conclusion, the most advanced special forces in the world are those that have undergone extensive training, possess cutting-edge technology and weaponry, and have a proven track record of successful missions. With the ever-evolving nature of warfare and terrorism, these forces are critical in ensuring national security and protecting citizens around the world.