Romania’s Special Forces
While this elite unit is relatively new due to being established only in 2009, don’t make the mistake assuming this fearsome group aren’t the finished article. Stationed in Afghanistan amongst other special forces, they are certainly the real thing as their infinite training regime testifies.
In Afghanistan they are tasked with supporting, advising and training the Afghan police special forces.
Belgium’s Special Forces
Deployed all over the world, from Kosovo to Somalia, to Bosnia to Zaire, Belgium’s Special Forces spread their net far and wide. Only after serving three years in the military can you apply to be a part of this special unit. Training is extremely rigorous including a 100km map reading task to be completed in no more than 48 hours.
Training as an Operator of the Special Forces is an ongoing process. It’s members are always involved with the honing of their skills and the development of new ones.
USA’s Green Berets
With Mission including counter terrorism, direct action, foreign internal defense, special reconnaissance and unconventional warfare, the Green Berets tentacles strech far and wide. Nicknamed the ‘Snake Eaters’, they were formed during World War II and have been kicking butt ever since. Slithering their way across the globe, these snakes might need some anti human bite medicine!
Members form tight bonds with one another and their camaraderie is unique, as many of the force’s missions demand that the members rely heavily on each other for support.
Mexico’s GAFE
A tiny unit which members no more than 100, Mexico’s GAFE work closely with their American peers and are widely regarded as experts at counter terrorism. Reporting directly to the Secretary of National Defense, they also boast an amphibious force that supports the army with protecting Mexico’s extensive coastline.
Operating since 1986, their motto is Todo por Mexico which translates as ‘Everything for Mexico’.
Norway’s Forsvarets Spesialkommando
Norway’s Forsvarets Spesialkommando managed to remain a tightly kept secret until November 1994 when they were revealed to be the force behind the thwarting of an attempted airplane hijacking by a local Norwegian. More recent activities include involvement in the war in Syria, where they were tasked with destroying the Syrian government’s chemical weapon arsenal.
The selection process for the unit lasts three weeks and includes intense physical and mental exercises with hardly any food or sleep. Only a select few of those who enter the course make it to the end.