SWAT teams, or Special Weapons and Tactics units, are elite police forces trained to handle high-risk situations, such as hostage situations, terrorist attacks, and dangerous criminals. With so many SWAT teams around the world, it’s natural to wonder which one is the best. In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at some of the most renowned SWAT teams in the world and compare their tactics, training, and performance to determine which one stands out as the best. So, let’s dive in and find out which SWAT team reigns supreme!
It is difficult to determine the best SWAT team in the world as it depends on various factors such as training, equipment, and experience. However, some of the most highly regarded SWAT teams include the NYPD SWAT, the LAPD SWAT, and the British SAS. These teams have a reputation for being well-trained and equipped, and have a proven track record of successfully carrying out high-risk operations. Ultimately, the effectiveness of a SWAT team depends on a variety of factors, including the situation they are facing and the specific skills and resources they have at their disposal.
Overview of SWAT Teams
History and Origin of SWAT Teams
The First SWAT Team
The first SWAT team was created in the late 1960s in the United States, in response to the increasing incidence of violent crimes and the need for specialized police units to handle such situations. The first SWAT team was formed in the city of Los Angeles, California, and was comprised of officers from the city’s police department who were trained in military tactics and weapons handling.
Evolution of SWAT Teams
Since its inception, the SWAT team has undergone several evolutions in terms of its tactics, training, and equipment. In the early years, SWAT teams were primarily used to handle hostage situations and high-risk arrests, but over time, their roles have expanded to include counter-terrorism, drug enforcement, and other specialized operations.
Modern SWAT Teams
Today, SWAT teams are found in most major cities around the world, and they are typically composed of highly trained police officers who have undergone extensive physical and mental conditioning. Many SWAT teams now also employ advanced technologies, such as drones and body cameras, to assist in their operations. Despite their evolution, however, the core mission of the SWAT team remains the same: to protect and serve the public in high-risk situations.
Types of SWAT Teams
When discussing the best SWAT team in the world, it is important to first understand the different types of SWAT teams that exist. These teams can be classified into three main categories: local SWAT teams, state SWAT teams, and federal SWAT teams.
Local SWAT teams are formed by law enforcement agencies at the city or county level. These teams are responsible for handling high-risk situations within their jurisdiction, such as serving warrants, dealing with barricaded subjects, and responding to active shooter situations. Local SWAT teams often have close relationships with the communities they serve and are well-versed in the unique challenges and dynamics of their respective areas.
State SWAT teams, as the name suggests, are formed by state-level law enforcement agencies. These teams are typically called upon to handle situations that require a higher level of tactical expertise or resources than what is available at the local level. State SWAT teams may be responsible for handling large-scale incidents, such as terrorist attacks or natural disasters, that require a coordinated response across multiple jurisdictions.
Federal SWAT teams, also known as tactical units, are formed by federal law enforcement agencies such as the FBI, DEA, and ATF. These teams are responsible for handling complex and high-stakes situations that require a coordinated response across multiple states or even countries. Federal SWAT teams are often called upon to assist local and state law enforcement agencies in handling major incidents, such as hostage situations or high-profile criminal investigations.
In conclusion, the different types of SWAT teams each have their own unique strengths and capabilities, and the best SWAT team in the world will depend on the specific situation and requirements at hand.
Criteria for Determining the Best SWAT Team
Training and Experience
When it comes to determining the best SWAT team in the world, training and experience play a crucial role. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Comparison of training programs: Different SWAT teams have different training programs that focus on different aspects of tactical operations. Some teams emphasize firearms training, while others focus on hand-to-hand combat or explosives handling. It’s important to compare these programs to see which ones provide the most comprehensive and effective training.
- Real-life scenarios and exercises: The best SWAT teams undergo extensive training in real-life scenarios and exercises that simulate the kinds of situations they may encounter on the job. These scenarios can range from hostage situations to active shooter scenarios to bomb threats. The ability to effectively respond to these situations in a timely and efficient manner is a key factor in determining the best SWAT team.
- Mental and physical preparedness: The mental and physical preparedness of SWAT team members is crucial to their success on the job. This includes physical fitness, mental toughness, and the ability to work under pressure. The best SWAT teams are made up of individuals who are highly trained and able to perform at their best under the most challenging circumstances.
Overall, the best SWAT team in the world is one that has undergone extensive training and has a proven track record of success in real-life scenarios. It’s important to consider all of the factors involved in determining the best team, including training programs, real-life scenarios, and mental and physical preparedness.
Equipment and Technology
The equipment and technology utilized by a SWAT team play a crucial role in determining their effectiveness and efficiency in carrying out their duties. The best SWAT teams in the world are equipped with the latest standard gear and weapons, advanced technology and gadgets, and communication and coordination equipment.
Standard Gear and Weapons
Standard gear and weapons used by SWAT teams include ballistic vests, helmets, tactical gloves, and boots. These items provide essential protection to the team members during high-risk operations. The weapons used by SWAT teams include submachine guns, assault rifles, sniper rifles, and shotguns. These weapons are chosen based on their versatility, accuracy, and stopping power.
Advanced Technology and Gadgets
Advanced technology and gadgets are used by the best SWAT teams in the world to gain an advantage in high-risk situations. Some of the advanced technology used by SWAT teams includes thermal imaging devices, night vision scopes, and drones. These devices help the team to gather intelligence, locate targets, and navigate through difficult terrain.
Communication and Coordination Equipment
Effective communication and coordination are essential for the success of any SWAT operation. The best SWAT teams in the world use advanced communication and coordination equipment such as radios, earpieces, and headsets to stay connected and coordinated during operations. This equipment allows team members to communicate with each other and with other agencies involved in the operation, ensuring that everyone is on the same page.
In conclusion, the best SWAT teams in the world are equipped with the latest standard gear and weapons, advanced technology and gadgets, and communication and coordination equipment. These teams use this equipment to gain an advantage in high-risk situations and ensure the safety of everyone involved in the operation.
Strategy and Tactics
When evaluating the effectiveness of SWAT teams, it is crucial to consider their strategy and tactics in various scenarios. This section will delve into the three primary areas where SWAT teams are typically deployed: hostage situations, high-risk arrests, and active shooter situations.
Hostage Situations
In hostage situations, the primary objective is to resolve the situation with minimal harm to hostages and law enforcement personnel. SWAT teams are trained to employ negotiators to communicate with the hostage-taker and attempt to de-escalate the situation. If negotiations fail, SWAT teams must devise a plan to rescue the hostages while neutralizing the threat posed by the hostage-taker.
One of the most critical factors in hostage situations is the timing of the rescue operation. SWAT teams must be able to assess the situation quickly and develop a plan that minimizes the risk of harm to hostages and law enforcement personnel. This requires excellent communication and coordination among team members, as well as a deep understanding of the dynamics of hostage situations.
High-Risk Arrests
High-risk arrests involve individuals who pose a significant threat to law enforcement personnel or the public. This could include suspects who have committed violent crimes, are armed and dangerous, or are resisting arrest. In these situations, SWAT teams are called in to ensure the safety of law enforcement personnel and the public.
SWAT teams use a variety of tactics to execute high-risk arrests, including the use of specialized equipment such as ballistic vests, helmets, and riot gear. They may also use non-lethal weapons such as Tasers and pepper spray to subdue suspects without causing serious injury.
Active Shooter Situations
Active shooter situations involve an individual or group of individuals actively shooting or threatening to shoot people in a public place. In these situations, SWAT teams are often the first responders and must act quickly to neutralize the threat and save lives.
SWAT teams use a variety of tactics to respond to active shooter situations, including the use of entry teams to breach the location and neutralize the shooter, as well as the use of specialized equipment such as armored vehicles and tactical gear. They may also use negotiators to communicate with the shooter and attempt to de-escalate the situation.
Overall, the effectiveness of a SWAT team in strategy and tactics depends on their ability to adapt to different situations and execute their plans with precision and efficiency.
Performance in Real-World Operations
Case Studies of Successful Operations
One of the most important factors in determining the best SWAT team in the world is their performance in real-world operations. A SWAT team’s effectiveness can be evaluated by analyzing case studies of successful operations. These case studies provide insight into the team’s tactical skills, operational planning, and overall ability to handle high-risk situations.
For example, the NYPD’s SWAT team has been involved in numerous successful operations, including the rescue of a police officer who was taken hostage by a barricaded suspect. The team’s tactical expertise and negotiation skills were instrumental in resolving the situation without any loss of life. Similarly, the LAPD’s SWAT team has been involved in several high-profile operations, including the rescue of a kidnapped child and the apprehension of dangerous felons.
Case Studies of Unsuccessful Operations
In addition to successful operations, it is also important to examine case studies of unsuccessful operations to determine the strengths and weaknesses of a SWAT team. These case studies can provide valuable lessons for other teams on how to avoid similar mistakes and improve their overall performance.
For instance, the Auckland Police’s Special Tactics Group (STG) was involved in a hostage situation in 2013, which resulted in the death of a civilian. The operation was widely criticized for its use of excessive force and lack of communication between the SWAT team and the hostage-taker. This incident highlighted the importance of effective communication and the need for a more cautious approach in high-risk situations.
Lessons Learned from Failures
Failures in SWAT operations can provide valuable lessons for other teams on how to improve their performance in the future. By analyzing the causes of failure, teams can identify areas for improvement and implement changes to enhance their tactical skills and operational planning.
For example, the Dallas SWAT team experienced a failure in 2018 when they accidentally killed a suspect during a raid. The incident was widely criticized for the team’s lack of communication and poor tactical planning. As a result, the team implemented changes to their training and operational procedures to improve their overall performance and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
In conclusion, the performance of a SWAT team in real-world operations is a critical factor in determining their overall effectiveness. By examining case studies of successful and unsuccessful operations, as well as the lessons learned from failures, teams can identify areas for improvement and enhance their tactical skills and operational planning.
Comparison of the Best SWAT Teams in the World
United States
When it comes to SWAT teams, the United States is home to some of the most highly trained and equipped units in the world. Three of the most prominent SWAT teams in the US are the New York City Police Department (NYPD) SWAT, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) SWAT, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) SWAT.
New York City Police Department (NYPD) SWAT
The NYPD SWAT team is one of the oldest and most experienced in the United States. Formed in 1983, the team has been involved in numerous high-profile operations, including hostage situations, terrorist attacks, and tactical operations. The NYPD SWAT team is composed of highly trained officers who are equipped with the latest technology and weapons. They are known for their precision and efficiency in executing tactical operations.
Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) SWAT
The LAPD SWAT team is one of the most famous in the world, having been featured in numerous movies and TV shows. Formed in 1967, the team has been involved in numerous high-profile operations, including the famous stand-off with the Symbionese Liberation Army in 1974. The LAPD SWAT team is composed of highly trained officers who are equipped with the latest technology and weapons. They are known for their tactical innovations, including the use of armored vehicles and sniper teams.
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) SWAT
The DEA SWAT team is responsible for executing high-risk drug enforcement operations throughout the United States. Formed in 1984, the team has been involved in numerous operations against drug cartels and other criminal organizations. The DEA SWAT team is composed of highly trained officers who are equipped with the latest technology and weapons. They are known for their precision and efficiency in executing tactical operations.
Overall, the SWAT teams in the United States are among the most highly trained and equipped in the world. Whether it’s the NYPD SWAT team in New York City, the LAPD SWAT team in Los Angeles, or the DEA SWAT team in Washington D.C., these units are well-prepared to handle any high-risk situation that may arise.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom boasts a number of elite law enforcement units that are trained in special weapons and tactics (SWAT) operations. Three of the most notable units are the Specialist Firearms Command (SCO19), Metropolitan Police Firearms Officer, and Army EOD and Search Task Force.
Specialist Firearms Command (SCO19)
The Specialist Firearms Command (SCO19) is the tactical firearms unit of the Metropolitan Police Service. It is responsible for dealing with firearms threats and other high-risk incidents in London. SCO19 officers are highly trained and equipped with the latest tactical gear and weapons. They are also trained in negotiation techniques and work closely with other units, such as the Metropolitan Police Hostage Negotiation Team, to resolve incidents peacefully.
Metropolitan Police Firearms Officer
The Metropolitan Police Firearms Officer is a police officer who has been trained in the use of firearms and is authorized to carry a firearm while on duty. These officers are trained to use their firearms only as a last resort and are required to undergo rigorous training and testing to become certified. They are often called upon to assist SCO19 in high-risk incidents and provide additional firepower and support.
Army EOD and Search Task Force
The Army EOD and Search Task Force is a specialized unit of the British Army that is responsible for dealing with explosive threats. These officers are trained in the disposal of explosives and are often called upon to assist SCO19 in incidents involving explosive devices. The Search Task Force is a sub-unit of the Army EOD and is responsible for searching for and disposing of explosive devices in public places.
Overall, the United Kingdom has a well-developed system of law enforcement units that are trained in SWAT operations and equipped to handle a wide range of threats. While SCO19 is the primary unit responsible for SWAT-style operations, the Metropolitan Police Firearms Officer and Army EOD and Search Task Force provide additional support and expertise when needed.
Canada
The Canadian Joint Incident Response Unit (CJIRU)
The Canadian Joint Incident Response Unit (CJIRU) is a specialized tactical team that operates under the Canadian Joint Operations Command (CJOC). The CJIRU is composed of highly trained members from various law enforcement agencies across Canada, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), and the Quebec Provincial Police (QPP).
The primary role of the CJIRU is to respond to high-risk incidents that pose a threat to public safety, such as hostage takings, terrorist attacks, and major criminal events. The team is equipped with the latest tactical gear and weaponry, and its members receive extensive training in areas such as close quarters combat, explosive ordinance disposal, and tactical medical support.
The Toronto Police Service Emergency Task Force (ETF)
The Toronto Police Service Emergency Task Force (ETF) is a highly trained unit that is responsible for responding to critical incidents in the city of Toronto. The ETF is composed of officers from the Toronto Police Service (TPS) who have volunteered for this role and have undergone extensive training in tactical operations, weapons handling, and crisis negotiation.
The ETF is equipped with the latest tactical gear and weaponry, and its members are trained in a variety of tactics, including the use of explosives, ballistic shields, and specialized weapons. The team is also trained in crisis negotiation techniques, which are often used to resolve high-risk incidents without the need for force.
The Vancouver Police Department Emergency Response Team (ERT)
The Vancouver Police Department Emergency Response Team (ERT) is a specialized unit that is responsible for responding to high-risk incidents in the city of Vancouver. The ERT is composed of highly trained officers from the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) who have volunteered for this role and have undergone extensive training in tactical operations, weapons handling, and crisis negotiation.
The ERT is equipped with the latest tactical gear and weaponry, and its members are trained in a variety of tactics, including the use of explosives, ballistic shields, and specialized weapons. The team is also trained in crisis negotiation techniques, which are often used to resolve high-risk incidents without the need for force.
Australia
When it comes to law enforcement and emergency response, Australia has a few SWAT teams that are worth mentioning. Here are some of the best SWAT teams in Australia:
Australian Federal Police (AFP) Specialist Operations
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) Specialist Operations is a highly trained and skilled SWAT team that is responsible for responding to high-risk incidents and situations. The team is made up of police officers who have undergone extensive training in weapons handling, tactics, and negotiation. They are equipped with the latest weapons and technology to ensure they can respond to any situation effectively.
New South Wales Police Force’s Policing and Security Command
The New South Wales Police Force’s Policing and Security Command is another top-notch SWAT team in Australia. The team is responsible for responding to critical incidents and high-risk situations, including terrorist attacks, hostage situations, and armed robberies. They are highly trained and equipped with the latest weapons and technology to ensure they can respond to any situation quickly and effectively.
Victoria Police’s Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT)
The Victoria Police’s Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) is a highly specialized SWAT team that is responsible for responding to critical incidents and high-risk situations. The team is made up of police officers who have undergone extensive training in weapons handling, tactics, and negotiation. They are equipped with the latest weapons and technology to ensure they can respond to any situation effectively.
Overall, these SWAT teams in Australia are well-trained, well-equipped, and ready to respond to any high-risk situation. They are highly respected within the law enforcement community and have a proven track record of success in responding to critical incidents.
Germany
Germany has three well-known SWAT teams that are highly trained and skilled in handling high-risk situations. These teams are the GSG 9, KSK, and SEK.
GSG 9
GSG 9, or Grenzschutzgruppe 9, is the oldest and most well-known of the three German SWAT teams. It was formed in 1972 by the Bavarian State Police and is based in Munich. The team is named after the ninth department of the Bavarian State Police.
GSG 9 is responsible for a wide range of operations, including hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, and anti-piracy operations. The team is made up of highly trained police officers who have undergone rigorous physical and mental training.
GSG 9 has been involved in several high-profile operations, including the 1972 Munich Olympics hostage crisis and the 1977 Landshut hijacking. The team is also known for its role in the capture of the notorious serial killer, Peter Stuyvesant.
KSK
KSK, or Kommando Spezialkräfte, is the special operations unit of the German Army. It was formed in 1991 and is based in Calw, Germany. The team is made up of volunteers from the German Army who have undergone rigorous selection and training.
KSK is responsible for a wide range of operations, including hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, and special reconnaissance. The team is also trained in combat operations and can be deployed in support of other military units.
KSK has been involved in several high-profile operations, including the 1996 kidnapping of the German military attaché in Lebanon and the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
SEK
SEK, or Spezialeinsatzkommando, is the special operations unit of the German Federal Police. It was formed in 1986 and is based in Berlin. The team is made up of highly trained police officers who have undergone rigorous physical and mental training.
SEK is responsible for a wide range of operations, including hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, and anti-piracy operations. The team is also trained in combat operations and can be deployed in support of other police units.
SEK has been involved in several high-profile operations, including the 2002 Munich shooting spree and the 2007 bomb attack on the International Club in Stuttgart.
Overall, these three German SWAT teams are highly trained and skilled in handling high-risk situations. They have a proven track record of success and are considered some of the best in the world.
France
When it comes to SWAT teams, France has several highly trained and skilled units that are recognized as some of the best in the world. These units include RAID, GIGN, and PIGM.
RAID
RAID, or the Research and Intervention Brigade, is one of the most well-known and respected SWAT teams in France. It was established in 1976 and is responsible for handling high-risk operations such as hostage situations, counter-terrorism, and tactical interventions.
RAID is made up of highly trained and experienced operators who have undergone rigorous physical and mental training. They are known for their tactical expertise and their ability to operate in difficult and dangerous environments.
GIGN
GIGN, or the Groupe d’Intervention de la Gendarmerie Nationale, is another highly respected SWAT team in France. It was established in 1974 and is responsible for handling a wide range of high-risk operations, including hostage situations, counter-terrorism, and VIP protection.
GIGN is made up of highly trained and experienced operators who have undergone extensive training in tactics, weapons, and explosives. They are known for their tactical expertise and their ability to operate in challenging and dynamic environments.
PIGM
PIGM, or the Police Immediate Action Division, is a SWAT team that is part of the French National Police. It was established in 1985 and is responsible for handling high-risk operations such as hostage situations, counter-terrorism, and tactical interventions.
PIGM is made up of highly trained and experienced operators who have undergone rigorous physical and mental training. They are known for their tactical expertise and their ability to operate in difficult and dangerous environments.
Overall, these three SWAT teams in France are among the best in the world, with each having its own unique strengths and capabilities. They are highly trained and experienced, and are capable of handling a wide range of high-risk operations with precision and effectiveness.
Russia
When it comes to special operations forces, Russia has several elite units that are considered among the best in the world. Here are three of the most notable Russian SWAT teams:
Special Rapid Response Unit (SOBR)
The Special Rapid Response Unit (SOBR) is a special operations unit of the Russian police force. It was created in 1992 to combat terrorism and hostage-taking situations. SOBR operators are highly trained in close-quarters combat, firearms, explosives, and tactical medicine. They are also skilled in urban warfare and can operate in any environment, including in extreme weather conditions.
Federal Security Service (FSB) Spetsnaz
The Federal Security Service (FSB) Spetsnaz is a special operations unit of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB). It was created in 1991 and is responsible for counter-terrorism and hostage-rescue operations. FSB Spetsnaz operators are some of the most highly trained and skilled operators in the world. They are experts in hand-to-hand combat, firearms, explosives, and tactical medicine. They are also skilled in urban warfare and can operate in any environment, including in extreme weather conditions.
Russian Special Operations Forces
The Russian Special Operations Forces (SOF) is a special operations unit of the Russian military. It was created in 1992 and is responsible for special operations, including counter-terrorism and hostage-rescue operations. Russian SOF operators are highly trained in close-quarters combat, firearms, explosives, and tactical medicine. They are also skilled in urban warfare and can operate in any environment, including in extreme weather conditions.
In summary, these three Russian SWAT teams are among the best in the world, with highly trained and skilled operators who are capable of operating in any environment and conducting a wide range of special operations, including counter-terrorism and hostage-rescue operations.
Israel
When it comes to elite tactical units, Israel has several SWAT teams that are considered among the best in the world. Three of the most prominent teams are the Mista’aravim, Magav, and Yamam. Each team has its unique approach and area of expertise, but they all share a common goal of protecting Israeli citizens and maintaining law and order.
Mista’aravim
The Mista’aravim, also known as the Israeli Counter-Terrorism and Special Operations Unit, is one of the most well-known SWAT teams in Israel. It was established in 1989 and is responsible for counter-terrorism operations, hostage rescue, and high-risk arrests. The team is composed of highly trained officers who have undergone rigorous physical and mental training. They are known for their ability to operate in urban environments and for their expertise in dealing with complex and dangerous situations.
Magav
The Magav, or the Israeli National Police Counter-Terrorism Unit, is another highly respected SWAT team in Israel. It was established in 2002 and is responsible for counter-terrorism operations, border security, and high-risk arrests. The team is composed of police officers who have undergone extensive training in counter-terrorism tactics and techniques. They are known for their ability to operate in a variety of environments, including urban areas, rural areas, and public transportation systems.
Yamam
The Yamam, or the Israeli Special Forces Counter-Terrorism Unit, is considered one of the most elite SWAT teams in the world. It was established in 1974 and is responsible for counter-terrorism operations, hostage rescue, and high-risk arrests. The team is composed of highly trained officers who have undergone rigorous physical and mental training. They are known for their ability to operate in a variety of environments, including urban areas, rural areas, and complex structures such as buildings and tunnels.
In summary, Israel has several SWAT teams that are considered among the best in the world. Each team has its unique approach and area of expertise, but they all share a common goal of protecting Israeli citizens and maintaining law and order. The Mista’aravim, Magav, and Yamam are among the most well-known and respected teams in Israel, and they have a reputation for being highly trained and capable of handling even the most complex and dangerous situations.
FAQs
1. What is a SWAT team?
A SWAT team is a highly trained police tactical team that is specialized in handling high-risk situations such as hostage situations, high-risk arrests, and armed confrontations. They are equipped with specialized weapons and gear and are often called upon to resolve dangerous situations that require a high level of expertise and bravery.
2. What is the best SWAT team in the world?
There is no definitive answer to this question as different SWAT teams have different strengths and capabilities. Some of the most highly regarded SWAT teams in the world include the NYPD SWAT, the LAPD SWAT, the British SAS, and the Russian Spetsnaz. However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of a SWAT team depends on a variety of factors, including training, resources, and leadership.
3. What are the criteria for determining the best SWAT team in the world?
There are several criteria that can be used to determine the best SWAT team in the world, including their training, tactics, equipment, and success rate in real-world operations. Other factors that may be considered include the size and scope of the team, their level of experience, and their ability to work effectively in a variety of environments.
4. How do SWAT teams compare in terms of training and tactics?
SWAT teams around the world use a variety of training methods and tactics to prepare for high-risk situations. Some teams focus on physical fitness and marksmanship, while others prioritize tactical thinking and problem-solving. Some teams also use simulation training to prepare for specific scenarios, while others rely on more traditional methods such as classroom instruction and field exercises.
5. What are some of the most successful SWAT teams in the world?
There are many SWAT teams around the world that have achieved a high level of success in their operations. Some of the most notable include the NYPD SWAT, which has been involved in several high-profile operations, including the 1971 bank robbery in Brooklyn and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. The LAPD SWAT is also highly regarded, having been involved in several high-profile operations, including the 1997 North Hollywood shootout. The British SAS and the Russian Spetsnaz are also considered to be among the most effective and highly trained special forces units in the world.
