Garud Commando Force

The Elite Warriors of the Indian Air Force

When it comes to elite special forces in India, the Garud Commando Force of the Indian Air Force (IAF) stands out for its stealth, skill, and specialized training. Established to protect critical air force installations and conduct high-risk operations, the Garuds represent the pinnacle of discipline, precision, and patriotism.

Origin and Formation Of Garud Commando Force

The Garud Commando Force was officially formed in 2004, after the Indian Air Force realized the need for a dedicated special operations unit that could operate in complex and high-threat environments. Named after Garuda, the divine bird from Hindu mythology known for speed and strength, this unit was created to fill a strategic gap in the IAF’s operational capabilities.

Initially raised with a strength of around 1,000 personnel, the force has since expanded and become an integral part of India’s counter-terrorism and special operations ecosystem.

Key Roles and Responsibilities Of Garud Commando Force

The Garud Commandos are trained for a wide array of missions that require extreme precision and efficiency. Their duties include:

Counter-Terrorism Operations
Hostage Rescue
Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR)
Airfield and Base Security
Special Reconnaissance Missions
Protecting IAF Assets in Hostile Territories
Aid in Disaster Relief Missions

In recent years, Garud Commandos have also been deployed in Jammu & Kashmir, working alongside the Indian Army and contributing to counter-insurgency operations.

The Selection and Training Of Garud Commando Force

Getting into the Garud Commando Force is extremely challenging. The selection process includes:

Physical endurance tests
Psychological assessment
Medical screening
Basic military training

After selection, recruits undergo 72 weeks of rigorous training, one of the longest and most demanding training schedules among Indian special forces. Training modules include:

Parachute jumps
Survival skills in diverse terrains (deserts, snow, jungles)
Advanced weapon handling
Demolition techniques
Close-quarter battle (CQB)
High-altitude operations
Navigation and communication skills

They also receive training from other elite Indian forces like NSG, Marcos, and foreign forces in some cases.

Weapons and Gear For Garud Commando Force

Garud Commandos are equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry and gear including:

Tavor TAR-21 assault rifles
Glock pistols
Dragunov sniper rifles
CornerShot weapons
Advanced night vision goggles (NVG)
Combat helmets, bulletproof jackets, and communication equipment

Their gear is selected to support both stealth and heavy-duty combat, making them versatile for diverse mission requirements.

Notable Operations and Deployments

Garud Commandos Force have played vital roles in several real-time operations including:

Deployment in high-security areas like Srinagar airbase
Involvement in counter-terrorist ops in Kashmir Valley
Rescue and relief missions during natural disasters
Strategic security missions during national events

One Garud Commando, Corporal Jyoti Prakash Nirala, was posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, for his extraordinary courage in an anti-terror operation in Jammu & Kashmir.

Garuds vs. Other Indian Special Forces

While the Garuds are often compared with Indian Army’s Para SF, Navy’s Marcos, or NSG, they are unique in their air-oriented capabilities. Garuds are specifically trained to secure airbases, neutralize aerial threats, and support air operations, setting them apart in terms of mission objectives and specialized tactics.

The Silent Protectors of Indian Skies

The Garud Commando Force may operate under the radar, but their impact is massive. These warriors symbolize courage, resilience, and the sharp edge of India’s military prowess. Whether it’s neutralizing a threat at high altitudes or securing critical air assets, the Garuds are always prepared to act with unmatched precision and dedication.

Did You Know?
Garud Commandos are one of the few Indian forces that are combat-deployed during peacetime, showcasing their readiness and strategic importance.