Skilled like an elite military unit, South Africa’s Special Task Force is actually a specialized police unit. They are on our list due to their defiant “action first, questions later’ school of thought. Adept at various jobs such as catching armed robbers, dealing with hostage situations and masters of all terrains, these dare devils are called into action when a task is deemed to risky for the regular police force.
Since 2004 with the implementation of affirmative action policy, female members have also joined it’s ranks.
Israel’s “Mistarvim” – Duvdevan
Infamous for carrying out dangerous covert operations deep in enemy territory while disguised as local Arabs, Duvdevan’s mistarvim unit go about their business unnoticed until the final moment when they swoop in and catch their target off guard. With strong support waiting in the wings, once the mistarvim reveal themselves they are swiftly joined by their back up force.
Members go through intense training and are schooled not only in urban warfare but also must become fluent in Arabic and masters of disguise so as to blend naturally into the environment.
Poland’s GROM
Cast in the same mould as distinguished forces such as the British SAS and the US Navy Seals, Poland’s counter terrorism unit Grom have become a force to be reckoned with, having played an important role in operations in Afghanistan, Iraq and in the fight against ISIS. Multi skilled, Grom’s assignments include fighting terrorism, hostage rescuing both from buildings and vehicles and backing up other forces when required.
Due to their ability to perform precise covert operations and their extensive medical training, Grom members have acquired the nickname of the Surgeons.
Estonina’s Special Forces (ESTSOF)
Although the Estonian Special Forces is a relatively new unit although they have already developed a strong reputation due to their alertness and military skills. Only those cut out for training in below zero temperatures, sleeping for only 2 hours a night and sniper training which goes on for days on end should get themselves involved with this unit. As is de rigueur with units such as these, it is unknown how many operatives are on the books.
The main remit for this unit is to develop skills to deal with unconventional warfare.
Brazil’s SOC
Set up to deal with a wide variety of situations, from small to large scale operations and boasting one of the biggest special force units in the world, Brazil’s Special Operations Command is different to most other anti terror groups. Tasked with keeping the public safe during Brazil’s hosting of 2016’s FIFA Soccer World Cup, their remit included dealing with any terror attacks during the tournament.
The SOC’s party trick is in dealing with guerrilla groups as they use methods to dismantle them by absorbing them into the main army.