10 of the Best Special Forces in the World

From high-stakes counter-terrorism operations to covert reconnaissance missions deep behind enemy lines, special forces units are the sharpest tip of a nation's military spear. These elite soldiers undergo some of the most grueling physical and psychological training imaginable to become the best of the best. But which unit can claim the title of best special forces in the world?

Defining the absolute "best" special forces in the world is a complex task. Each unit is shaped by its country's unique geopolitical needs, and secrecy is a fundamental part of their operations. This makes direct comparisons difficult. However, by looking at their training, historical success, and specialized capabilities, we can identify the top contenders.

This guide will explore ten of the best special forces in the world. We will look into their history, their operational focus, and what makes them stand out on the world stage. By the end, you'll have a clearer picture of these incredible organizations and the roles they play in modern warfare. Most importantly you’ll know why they are considered the best special forces in the world.

Who Are the Best Special Forces in the World?

Here are 10 of the best special forces in the world. They are the most respected and feared special operations forces from around the globe, recognized for their unparalleled skill and effectiveness. These are not ranked in any particular order.

1. United States Navy SEALs

Arguably the most famous and one of the best special forces in the world, the Navy SEALs (Sea, Air, and Land Teams) are the U.S. Navy's primary special operations force. Their reputation was cemented in popular culture after the successful 2011 raid that killed Osama bin Laden, carried out by members of SEAL Team Six.

SEAL candidates must endure the legendary Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training, a 24-week course so demanding that it has an attrition rate of 70-85 percent. This is followed by SEAL Qualification Training (SQT) and other specialized schools. SEALs are experts in direct action, special reconnaissance, counter-terrorism, and unconventional warfare in maritime, jungle, desert, and arctic environments.

2. United Kingdom Special Air Service (SAS)

The British SAS is the original modern special forces unit, created during World War II with the motto, "Who Dares Wins." They set the standard for many other elite forces around the world, naturally then they should be considered one of the best special forces in the world. The SAS is renowned for its expertise in counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and covert reconnaissance.

Their selection process is one of the toughest in the world, taking place in the unforgiving terrain of the Brecon Beacons in Wales. Candidates are pushed to their absolute physical and mental limits. One of their most famous operations was the 1980 Iranian Embassy siege in London, which was broadcast live and demonstrated their lethal efficiency to a global audience.

3. United States Army Delta Force

Officially known as the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta (1st SFOD-D), Delta Force is the U.S. Army's elite counter-terrorism and special missions unit. Its existence was long denied by the U.S. government, adding to its mystique. Delta Force recruits primarily from experienced operators within the U.S. Army's Special Forces (Green Berets) and the 75th Ranger Regiment. Those units are also considered some of the best special forces in the world.

Delta Force specializes in hostage rescue, direct action, and high-value target missions. They are known for their surgical precision and ability to operate in highly complex and dangerous environments. Their involvement in the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu, later depicted in the book and film "Black Hawk Down," highlights the challenging nature of their missions.

4. Israel Sayeret Matkal

Sayeret Matkal is the premier special reconnaissance unit of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Modeled after the British SAS, its primary roles are deep reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and counter-terrorism. The unit is famous for its rigorous and highly secretive selection process, known as the Gibbush, which tests candidates' physical and psychological resilience under extreme stress.

One of Sayeret Matkal's most legendary missions was Operation Entebbe in 1976. In a daring raid, the unit rescued more than 100 hostages from a hijacked airliner in Uganda, flying more than 2,500 miles to execute the mission with remarkable success. This operation solidified their reputation as one of the best special forces in the world and one of the world's most effective counter-terrorism units.

5. Russia Spetsnaz

Spetsnaz is a broad term for Russia's special forces, encompassing units from various military branches, including the GRU (Main Intelligence Directorate). GRU Spetsnaz are among the most hardened and secretive forces in the world. Trained for reconnaissance, sabotage, and direct action, they are known for their brutal efficiency and resilience.

Their training is notoriously harsh, emphasizing physical endurance, hand-to-hand combat (Sambo), and survival skills. During the Soviet-Afghan War, Spetsnaz units were instrumental in conducting counter-insurgency operations. They remain a key component of Russia's military strategy, often operating in the shadows of global conflicts.

6. France National Gendarmerie Intervention Group (GIGN)

The GIGN is the elite counter-terrorism and hostage rescue unit of the French National Gendarmerie. Formed in the aftermath of the 1972 Munich Olympics massacre, its primary mission is to respond to high-stakes threats on French soil and abroad. The GIGN is known for its discipline and focus on negotiation and marksmanship, aiming to resolve situations with minimal loss of life.

A standout operation was the 1994 hijacking of Air France Flight 8969 in Marseille. GIGN commandos stormed the aircraft and successfully neutralized the terrorists, saving all remaining passengers. Their training emphasizes precision shooting and stress management, making them masters of high-pressure situations and one of the best special forces in the world.

7. Pakistan Special Services Group (SSG)

Pakistan's SSG, also known as the "Black Storks," is an elite special operations force of the Pakistan Army. Their training is notoriously demanding, including a grueling 36-mile march in 12 hours and a high-altitude mountain warfare course. The SSG is trained for a variety of missions, including asymmetric warfare, counter-terrorism, and direct action.

They have extensive experience operating in the rugged terrain along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. The SSG has worked closely with U.S. special forces in the War on Terror and played a key role in numerous counter-terrorism operations within Pakistan, including the 2009 storming of the Army General Headquarters after it was attacked by militants.

8. Spain Unidad de Operaciones Especiales (UOE)

Before its merger into the Naval Special Warfare Force (FGNE) in 2009, the UOE was one of Europe's most respected special forces units. Often referred to as the "Tercio de Armada," its history traces back to 1952. The UOE's selection process had a reputation for being one of the world's most difficult, with an average pass rate of less than 1 percent.

The FGNE continues this legacy, specializing in maritime counter-terrorism, combat diving, and direct action. They are Spain’s equivalent of the Navy SEALs and are highly regarded for their proficiency in amphibious operations.

9. Poland GROM

JW GROM (Jednostka Wojskowa GROM) is Poland's elite counter-terrorism unit. Its name, which means "thunder," is an acronym for Group for Operational Maneuvering Response. Formed in 1990 with assistance from U.S. and UK special forces, GROM quickly established itself as a world-class unit.

GROM operators are trained in a wide range of skills, including special operations, counter-terrorism, and underwater operations. They have served alongside allied forces in Haiti, Iraq, and Afghanistan, earning a reputation for their professionalism and combat effectiveness. Their selection process, which includes intense psychological and physical tests, is designed to find only the most resilient individuals to serve in this unit, one of the best special forces in the world.

10. Germany KSK (Kommando Spezialkräfte)

The KSK is Germany's elite special forces unit, formed in 1996 in response to the country's difficulty in rescuing German citizens during the Rwandan genocide. The KSK's primary missions are counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and special reconnaissance, often operating in high-risk environments.

KSK selection is extremely rigorous, with only 10-15 percent of applicants making it through. Operators are trained to be self-sufficient and adaptable, capable of operating deep behind enemy lines. They have been active in Afghanistan and the Balkans, where they have earned respect for their skills and professionalism.

The Final Verdict

So, which of these is the best special forces unit in the world? While units like the Navy SEALs and SAS have a storied history and global reach, the answer often depends on the specific mission. The GIGN excels at hostage rescue, while Sayeret Matkal is a master of intelligence gathering.

Each unit on this list represents the pinnacle of military excellence. They are comprised of individuals who have pushed themselves beyond ordinary human limits to serve their country. While we may never have a definitive answer, the dedication, skill, and courage of these operators are undeniable and worthy of our highest respect