Many countries have dedicated special forces units comprised of highly trained and skilled soldiers that are trusted with the most difficult military tasks. They first emerged in the 20th century and became more common during World War II, especially when each army that was part of the war created special operations. Members of special forces must go through grueling training processes, with only a small percentage of the toughest recruits making the final cut.
British SAS
The Special Air Service is the British Army’s special forces unit that was founded in 1950. They specialize in counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, covert reconnaissance, and hostage rescue. Just 15%-20% of candidates make it through the initial selection. In a group of 200, less than 30 will make it.
British SAS
Israeli Shayetet 13
Shayetet 13 is an elite unit of the Israeli Navy and the main reconnaissance units of the Israel Defense Forces. Shayetet 13’s main specializations include sea to land recursions, sabotage, maritime intelligence gathering, counter-terrorism, and maritime hostage rescue. Those who volunteer to Shayetet 13 agree to four and a half years of commitment, which is an extra year and a half in addition to the mandatory 3 year conscription that Israeli men face.
Israeli Shayetet 13