There are several factions of the Indian Special Forces, all of them elite, with the MARCOS being the most like special forces operations such as the Navy Seals and the SAS. They are a division of the Indian Navy.

Their History

MARCOS is short for Marine Commandos. They began as the Indian Marine Special Force in 1987 and were named Marine Commando Force (MARCOS) in 1991. They are considered to be the highest trained and most well equipped of the Indian Special Forces units.  They have over 2000 personnel, although the actual number of those in this special forces team remains classified. Their nickname is the Crocodiles.

How To Become A Member Of MARCOS

More than 80 percent of the applicants for MARCOS are screened out within the aptitude test that requires physical fitness as well that lasts for three days.  Those who are active in the Indian military can apply to become a member of this elite special forces team.

MARCOS Training

Originally, MARCOS training was done with Navy Seals as well as SAS training. They have recently set up their own facilities for training. Training is grueling for those who pass and get to be part of this unit and lasts for an initial five weeks after most are screened out during the three day test. Only about 20 to 25 percent of those who endure the five week initial training pass. After that, additional training that includes commando skills, para-military skills and training within the various armed forces lasts for two and a half years.

What Are They Best At?

MARCOS are trained at all types of military operations, including commando, intelligence training, offshore operations, anti-terrorism, skydiving and explosive skills, but are best at maritime operations.

Weapons Of MARCOS

Weapons used by MARCOS include small arms such as the AK47, Cross Bow, Heckler & Koch sniping rifles, assault rifles, grenade launchers, shoulder field aircraft missiles, variants of sub-machine guns.  Cross Bow Arrows are tipped with Cynide.

Known Missions

MARCOS have had counter-terrorist missions and concentrates on the infiltration of terrorists who cross the Pakistani border into Jammu. They are active in Kashmir as well as Jammu. They focus on both domestic as well as global terrorism and work with elite special forces teams, when needed, throughout the world.

Units

No information is available regarding the specialized units of the MARCOS special forces. They are comparable to the US Navy SEALs in strength as well as abilities.

Are They Professional Soldiers?

The members of MARCOS are professional soldiers who usually make their career in the Indian military. They are considered to be the best special operations unit in India and are well respected throughout the rest of the world.

Resources:

www.wikipedia.org

This Article is written by James Kara Murat, contributor of US Navy SEAL Information Portal.