MARCOS Commando Force – The Silent Warriors of the Indian Navy

When we talk about the most elite forces in India, one name that echoes with fearlessness and precision is the MARCOS Commando Force – Marine Commandos of the Indian Navy. Known for their silent operations and unmatched combat skills, MARCOS Commando ForceS are the embodiment of stealth, strength, and sacrifice. Whether it’s operating deep in enemy territory, underwater missions, or counter-terrorism tasks, MARCOS stand as a lethal force protecting India’s maritime interests.

Who Are MARCOS Commando Force ?

MARCOS Commando stands for Marine Commandos, the special operations unit of the Indian Navy, established in 1987. Originally named the Indian Marine Special Forces (IMSF), the unit was later renamed MARCOS in 1991.

These commandos are trained to operate in sea, air, and land – making them India’s true tri-service warriors. Their primary role includes:

Special reconnaissance
Amphibious warfare
Direct action
Counter-terrorism
Hostage rescue
Anti-piracy operations

Motto of MARCOS Commando Force

The MARCOS Commando motto is “The Few, The Fearless”, symbolizing the rarity of their skillset and the depth of their courage. They are also often referred to as “Dadhiwala faujis” (bearded soldiers) by insurgents in Kashmir, due to their appearance and fearsome reputation.

MARCOS Commando Force Training: One of the Toughest in the World

Becoming a MARCOS Commando Force is not just difficult—it’s a test of absolute endurance, willpower, and commitment. The selection rate is extremely low, and the training is among the most grueling globally. Here are key highlights of the MARCOS training:

Preliminary selection: Only personnel from the Indian Navy can volunteer. The initial screening is extremely tough and weeds out most candidates.
Hell Week: Inspired by the US Navy SEALs’ “Hell Week”, recruits go through continuous physical training for days without sleep, under extreme mental and physical stress.
Combat diving: MARCOS are expert divers, trained to operate underwater using rebreathers, and can carry out sabotage or surveillance underwater undetected.
Skydiving and parachuting: Training also includes free-fall jumps, HALO/HAHO parachuting, and airborne combat techniques.
Advanced weaponry: MARCOS are skilled in sniping, demolition, close-quarter combat, and use of high-tech weapons and surveillance gear.

Roles and Operations of MARCOS Commando Force

MARCOS commandos have played crucial roles in several high-risk missions:

Operation Cactus (1988) – Intervened in Maldives to thwart a coup.
Kargil War (1999) – Deployed in high-altitude warfare and reconnaissance behind enemy lines.
Anti-piracy operations – Conducted several rescue and counter-piracy missions in the Arabian Sea.
Mumbai 26/11 – MARCOS were among the first responders during the terrorist attack and played a key role in neutralizing threats.

Weapons and Equipment

MARCOS Commando Force are equipped with the most advanced weaponry and gear, including:

Tavor TAR-21, MP5, Glock 17, AK-203
Combat knives, underwater firearms
Communication and night vision gear
Diving suits, dry and wet underwater gear
Inflatable crafts and submarines for stealth operations

How to Join MARCOS Commando Force

To become a MARCOS Commando, you must first be part of the Indian Navy (officer or sailor). From there:

Volunteer for the MARCOS selection.
Clear the Preliminary screening test (only about 10% make it through).
Complete the 9-month rigorous training, including combat diving, parachuting, and advanced warfare.

Only the most determined and physically fit candidates can make it through the entire selection process.

MARCOS Commando Force vs. Other Special Forces

MARCOS is often compared with international forces like the Navy SEALs (USA) and Special Boat Service (UK) due to their similar roles and capabilities. Within India, they stand alongside:

Para SF (Army)
NSG (National Security Guard)
Garud Commando Force (Air Force)

But what sets MARCOS apart is their ability to operate seamlessly across sea, air, and land—a unique strength in modern warfare.

Why MARCOS Commando Force Inspire Young Aspirants

The daring missions, stealth, discipline, and loyalty of MARCOS commandos have inspired thousands of defence aspirants in India. Their motto and legacy represent everything that a true warrior stands for – bravery, intelligence, precision, and resilience.

MARCOS commandos are not just soldiers—they are India’s silent warriors, operating in the shadows to protect the nation from threats both above and below water. Their unmatched skills, fearless missions, and commitment to duty make them one of the most respected forces in the Indian defence ecosystem.