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Italian special forces
Italian special forces
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The Italian Special Forces include special forces units from several branches of the Italian Armed Forces:[1] the Esercito Italiano (Army), the Marina Militare (Navy), the Aeronautica Militare (Air force) and the Arma dei Carabinieri (Gendarmerie).

The Comando operativo interforze delle forze speciali (Joint Special Forces Operations Headquarters) is responsible for operations carried out in response to Defense requirements.[2]

Italian Army special units

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Italian soldiers of the 4th Alpini Parachutist Regiment with ARX 160A2 rifles awaiting helicopter extraction
  • 4th Alpini Paratroopers Regiment, is a Ranger type infantry alpini regiment, specializing in mountain combat, and a special force trained for special operations in all kinds of environments, with special skills in skiing and climbing and resistance to cold, stress and fatigue. The 4th is best suited for high-altitude operations. Its operational battalion carries the legacy of the Alpine Skiers Battalion "Monte Cervino", an elite battalion of the Alpini Corps, that distinguished itself during World War I and World War II.
  • 185th Paratroopers Reconnaissance Target Acquisition Regiment "Folgore" (abbreviated as 185th RRAO) is a unit of the Italian Army, included in the special forces since 2018, made up of specifically selected and trained personnel, particularly trained and equipped to lead the entire spectrum of the typical tasks of the "Special Operations", particularly specialized in the conduct of Special Reconnaissance and Terminal Guidance Operations.

Italian Navy special units

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Frogmen of the COMSUBIN

The Italian Navy special forces unit is the Divers and Raiders Grouping "Teseo Tesei" (Comando Raggruppamento Subacquei e Incursori Teseo Tesei - COMSUBIN). Specifically the 250-350 men of the Operational Raiders Group are the special forces section of the elite unit.

  • GOI (Gruppo Operativo Incursori) - is the branch with raiders; they are trained for naval/land operation are also trained for special operations in all kinds of environments like British SBS, forward air controller, counter terrorism ...(but are also used on the mountains of Afghanistan in operation ISAF), are also equipped with special weapons over/under water vehicles for silent insertions.
  • GOS (Gruppo Operativo Subacquei) - is the diver's branch for rescue tasks and damage inspection / repair of vessels and/or submarines. They're even specialized as underwater E.O.D.[3]

COMSUBIN's origins lie with the famous Italian special units "X MAS" (Italian acronym for Anti Submarine Motorboats). The name referred to an early vehicle employed by the units, an explosive-laden crewless motorboat ("barchino") which was aimed and launched against enemy submersibles (keep in mind that until well after World War II subs were essentially surface ships with the capability of temporarily diving underwater for attacks). After World War I much study and development went into underwater raid techniques but the unit's name was never altered, leading to the false impression that Italian seafaring commandos were still relegated to anti-submarine warfare only. Instead many flotillas were armed and equipped to direct raids on enemy ships using explosive head-charges in guided torpedoes with 2-man crews (Siluri a Lenta Corsa or S.L.C.), with hand explosive charges (by frogmen) or with small, fast, self-explosive boats (S.M.A.).

Also the raiders approached the target by means of submarines with special tanks installed on the external bridge containing the special vehicles (S.L.C.).

  • Reparto Eliassalto REA (Heliborne Assault Unit) - special helicopters unit trained to support, supply, infiltrate/exfiltrate SF amphibious units in enemy territory.

Italian Air Force special units

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  • 17º Stormo Incursori the raiders corp of Italian Air Force. Its primary missions: raids on aeronautical compounds, forward air control, combat controlling, and combat search and rescue. Its origins are in the A.D.R.A Arditi Distruttori Regia Aeronautica (Royal Air Force Brave Destroyers), a corp of World War II. They were used in not-well-known missions against bridges and allied airfields in North Africa after the fall of Tunisia.[4] The only well-known mission reported the destruction with explosive charges of 25 B-24s & other airplanes and the killing of some bomber crew members.
  • 9º Stormo Francesco Baracca - a special helicopters unit trained to support, supply, infiltrate/exfiltrate SF and SOF units in enemy territory.

Carabinieri Corps special units

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The Carabinieri is a corp of Gendarmerie with both (civil and military) law-and-order police duties, military police, and military peacekeeping and war-fighting capabilities.

  • The Carabinieri has its own special forces in the form of the Gruppo di Intervento Speciale or the Special Intervention Group. The GIS features some one hundred or so troops specially trained in counter-terrorism operations with a special emphasis on marksmanship.

The special unit SOF is the "1st Company" of the 1st Carabinieri Airborne Regiment Tuscania. It is a regiment of paratroopers for military police and anti-terrorism. The usual roles:

  • military, common with all other airborne/special operation forces troops;
  • law-enforcement, supporting the Carabinieri law-enforcement units in dangerous areas (homeland security e.g. mafia-controlled zones, violent criminal confrontations and any operation in which, translating from the official Carabinieri website, "extremely violent firearm clashes are foreseen") and VIP escort and security service.

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
The Italian special forces are elite units within the , comprising specialized personnel from the , , , and , trained and equipped to execute high-risk in hostile or denied environments. These operations encompass raids, , counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and the non-combatant evacuation of nationals from crisis zones, often requiring exceptional autonomy, precision, and interoperability under national or allied command structures. Coordinated by the Joint Special Forces Operations Command (COFS), established on December 1, 2004, as an inter-service entity reporting to the Chief of the Defence Staff, the Italian special forces emphasize rapid deployment, advanced tactics, and integration with conventional forces to support strategic objectives in both domestic and international scenarios. The core operational units under COFS include the 9th Parachute Assault Regiment "Col Moschin" and the 185th Paratroopers Reconnaissance and Target Acquisition Regiment "Folgore" from the Army, focused on assault, infiltration, and intelligence gathering; the 4th Alpini Paratroopers Regiment "Monte Cervino", specializing in mountain and extreme terrain operations; the Operational Raiders Group (GOI) of the , experts in maritime interdiction, underwater sabotage, and amphibious assaults; the of the Air Force, providing aerial insertion, precision strikes, and combat search-and-rescue capabilities; and the Special Intervention Group (GIS) of the , dedicated to domestic counter-terrorism and apprehension. These six tier-one units are supported by dedicated aviation, signals, and logistics elements, such as the Army's 3rd Helicopter Regiment and the Navy's Heli-Assault Unit, ensuring seamless multi-domain operations validated to standards. The heritage of Italian special forces dates to , when the were formed in 1917 as pioneering assault units for breakthrough tactics, marking the birth of modern elite formations in . This legacy evolved through with renowned groups like the , whose frogmen conducted audacious underwater attacks, such as the 1941 damaging of British battleships in harbor. Post-war reorganization in the led to the establishment of parachute saboteur units, culminating in the 2004 creation of COFS to unify inter-service efforts amid evolving global threats. Today, these forces contribute to multinational missions, including NATO's Response Force and stability operations in regions like the and , underscoring Italy's commitment to collective defense and crisis response.

History

Origins in World Wars

The origins of Italian special forces trace back to World War I, when the Royal Italian Army established the Arditi, elite assault units designed for shock tactics and infiltration behind enemy lines. Formed in the summer of 1917 under Colonel Vincenzo Trani Rossi, these Reparti d'Assalto (Assault Detachments) were inspired by the need to counter entrenched Austrian defenses along the Italian front, employing small, highly mobile teams armed with grenades, daggers, and light machine guns to breach fortifications and disrupt command structures. The Arditi pioneered aggressive close-quarters combat and surprise assaults, achieving notable successes in battles such as the Sixth Battle of the Isonzo and the final offensive at Vittorio Veneto in 1918, where their tactics contributed to breaking the Austro-Hungarian lines. In , the expanded these elite concepts across branches, with the Army forming the 185th Parachute Division "Folgore" in September 1941 as the first dedicated airborne unit, initially intended to emulate German for operations like the planned invasion of . Deployed to in late 1941, the Folgore Division specialized in airborne insertions, defensive , and rapid assaults, playing a pivotal role in the , including the fierce defense at in October 1942, where its paratroopers held positions against overwhelming British forces despite lacking air support. This unit's emphasis on vertical envelopment and rugged terrain combat laid foundational precedents for Italian airborne operations. The Navy developed its through the (10th Light Flotilla Assault Vehicles), established in March 1939 and operational from 1940 to 1945, focusing on underwater sabotage and covert raids against Allied shipping in the Mediterranean. Comprising and manned operators using innovative SLC (Siluro a Lenta Corsa) "pigs," the unit conducted daring incursions, most famously Operazione EA.3 on December 18-19, 1941, when six commandos infiltrated harbor, damaging the British battleships and , which temporarily neutralized key elements of Force K. These operations demonstrated pioneering human-guided tactics and influenced modern naval special warfare. Initial special tactics emerged from elite squadrons like the Gruppo Aerosiluranti within the 's structure, integrated with Decima MAS support for precision torpedo raids in the early 1940s, targeting enemy convoys with low-level attacks using aircraft such as the Savoia-Marchetti SM.79. These units employed specialized navigation and weapon-delivery techniques for hit-and-run strikes, as seen in operations against British supply lines in the Mediterranean from 1940 onward, establishing early precedents for air-delivered . Complementing this, the Distruttori (ADRA) sabotage teams conducted ground raids, including airfield attacks in in June 1943. These wartime innovations evolved into postwar airborne and commando units like the 9th Parachute Regiment.

Postwar Developments

Following the end of in 1945, Allied restrictions led to the dissolution of Italy's specialized military units, including paratrooper and assault formations derived from wartime precedents like the Folgore Division, as part of the broader demobilization and reorganization of the under the 1947 peace treaty. In the early postwar years, surviving personnel from these units were reassigned to conventional roles, but by the 1950s, amid Italy's integration into in 1949, the need for elite capabilities adapted to threats prompted gradual reformation. This period saw the reestablishment of specialized training and operational structures to address potential insurgencies, sabotage, and in a divided Europe. The Italian Army's lineage was revived through the 9th Parachute Assault Regiment "Col Moschin," tracing its origins to the WWI-era 9th Assault Unit of the but reformed postwar for counter-insurgency roles. In 1953, it was rebuilt as a company-sized unit in Cesano near , evolving into the Parachute Saboteurs Department in by 1954 to focus on and raiding missions suited to NATO's defensive posture against Soviet expansion. By 1961, it expanded into a within the Paratroopers Brigade "Folgore," emphasizing airborne assaults and covert operations; this adaptation reflected Italy's strategic concerns over internal subversion and border tensions, such as in the region. The unit's training regimen, incorporating WWII tactics, prepared it for rapid response to guerrilla threats during the . In the , the legacy of the WWII (X MAS) and operations influenced postwar underwater , officially reconstituted in 1952 as the Gruppo Subacquei e Incursori (Arditi Divers and Raiders Group), later formalized as COMSUBIN and named after Teseo Tesei in 1960. This evolution addressed maritime tensions in the Mediterranean, where allies required capabilities for harbor sabotage, reconnaissance, and anti-submarine incursions against potential threats. COMSUBIN's focus on advanced diving and swimmer delivery vehicles built directly on X MAS experience, enabling operations like mine countermeasures and covert insertions during exercises simulating Adriatic conflicts. The drew from WWII raider traditions, such as the 1942 Distruttori della (ADRA), to develop incursori capabilities in the , with specialized groups forming for airfield assaults and pilot rescue behind enemy lines. By the late , these efforts coalesced into the Reparto Incursori Aeronautica Militare (RIAM), emphasizing air-to-ground integration and , which evolved into the 17th Stormo Incursori in 2008. This adaptation supported NATO's air defense strategies during the , focusing on disrupting enemy logistics in scenarios like a Soviet advance through the . Responding to domestic threats during the Years of Lead (1960s–1980s), marked by leftist and rightist terrorism including the 1978 kidnapping by the , the established the (GIS) on February 6, 1978, as Italy's first dedicated counter-terrorism unit. Drawing 36 elite volunteers from the 1st Carabinieri Parachute Battalion "Tuscania," the GIS was tasked with high-risk interventions like hostage rescues and raids on terrorist cells, inspired by operations such as Germany's 1977 GSG-9 storming of a hijacked plane. Its creation addressed the surge in urban violence, with initial deployments in March 1978 searching for Moro's captors, and it evolved to include military-grade training for both internal security and overseas support.

Modern Joint Integration

In the early 21st century, the Italian Armed Forces addressed longstanding coordination challenges among special operations units by establishing the Joint Special Forces Operations Command (COFS) on December 1, 2004, as the central authority overseeing special operations across all military branches. Reporting directly to the Chief of the Defence Staff, COFS unified capabilities from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Carabinieri, enabling synchronized planning, execution, and support for high-risk missions such as counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and direct action. This structure marked a shift from branch-specific autonomy toward a truly inter-service framework, drawing on foundational units like the Navy's COMSUBIN, established during the Cold War era. To further consolidate Army contributions under this joint umbrella, the Army Special Forces Command (COMFOSE) was created on , 2014, as a brigade-level entity responsible for , doctrinal standardization, operational readiness, and logistics for Army special forces units. Positioned under COFS for operational control, COMFOSE ensured that Army assets, including parachute and alpine units, aligned with broader inter-branch protocols without assuming direct . This integration enhanced the Army's ability to generate forces rapidly for COFS-directed operations, addressing previous silos in preparation and deployment. Post-2001, the Carabinieri's special units, particularly the (GIS), were incorporated into joint frameworks, expanding their role beyond domestic policing to include military-aligned missions. Following the 2004 evolution of GIS into a full entity under COFS, the unit participated in international deployments such as counter-terrorism efforts in and , often alongside regular armed forces. This inclusion facilitated hybrid operations blending law enforcement expertise with military capabilities, strengthening Italy's contributions to multinational coalitions. Recent developments have further refined this joint model, exemplified by the 185th Parachute Reconnaissance Target Acquisition Regiment "Folgore" (185th RRAO), which was redesignated and validated as a Tier 1 special reconnaissance unit in October 2018 during the "Dark Night 2018" exercise, solidifying its integration into COFS structures. As of November 2025, enhanced interoperability protocols under COFS align with standards, as outlined in the 2025-2027 Defence Planning Document, prioritizing multi-domain resilience and alliance compatibility in response to evolving threats.

Command and Organization

Joint Special Forces Operations Command (COFS)

The Joint Special Forces Operations Command (COFS), officially known as the Comando Operativo Interforze per le Operazioni delle Forze Speciali, was established on December 1, 2004, to serve as the unified headquarters coordinating Italy's activities. It reports directly to the Chief of the Defence Staff within the ' operational framework, ensuring centralized oversight for high-risk missions that require inter-service collaboration. Headquartered at Centocelle Airport in , COFS functions as a NATO-validated Component Command, enabling seamless integration with allied structures during multinational operations. COFS's core responsibilities include the planning, execution, and logistical support of spanning land, sea, and air domains, as well as contributions to domestic security and counter-terrorism efforts. This encompasses raids, , hostage rescue, and , all tailored to national defense priorities. The command integrates Tier 1 units under its operational control, including the 9th Parachute Assault Regiment "Col Moschin", the 185th Paratroopers and Regiment "Folgore", and the "Ranger" from the , the Gruppo Operativo Incursori (GOI) from the Navy's COMSUBIN, the from the Air Force, and the Special Intervention Group (GIS) from the . These units operate under COFS direction to achieve synchronized effects in complex environments, with the command providing doctrinal guidance, training standardization, and resource allocation. In line with evolving threats, 2025 enhancements to COFS emphasize the incorporation of cyber capabilities and drone technologies into joint special operations, enhancing , electronic warfare, and precision strikes. These developments, outlined in the Italian Ministry of Defence's Multi-Year Programming Document for 2025-2027, allocate resources for unmanned systems and digital defense integration to support COFS-led missions, including anti-drone countermeasures and cyber-enabled special tactics. Such upgrades aim to maintain operational superiority in scenarios while fostering with branch-specific commands like the Army's COMFOSE.

Branch-Specific Structures

The Italian Army's special forces are organized under the Comando delle Forze Speciali dell'Esercito (COMFOSE), established on September 19, 2014, as a brigade-level command dedicated to the training, readiness, and operational support of and ranger units. Headquartered in at the compound in S. Piero a Grado, COMFOSE coordinates the integration of specialized capabilities within the Army's broader structure, focusing on high-readiness forces for . Within the Italian Navy (Marina Militare), the Comando Raggruppamento Subacquei e Incursori "Teseo Tesei" (COMSUBIN) serves as the central hub for , fully integrated into the Navy's operational pillar as a key asset for maritime and underwater missions. Based at the historic Varignano fortress in since the early , COMSUBIN encompasses operational subgroups such as the Gruppo Operativo Incursori for raiding operations and the Gruppo Operativo Subacquei for diving tasks, alongside , , and naval support elements to ensure cohesive maritime . The (Aeronautica Militare) structures its special operations capabilities primarily through the 17º Stormo Incursori, a dedicated wing responsible for selecting, training, and deploying air force special forces personnel. Headquartered at Furbara near , this unit receives aviation support from the 9º Stormo "" at Grazzanise , which provides assets like the HH-101 for insertion and extraction within the 1st Aviation Brigade framework. The , operating as a force under the Ministry of Defense, organize their elements within the 2ª Brigata Mobile, a tactical unit based in that handles high-risk operations including counterterrorism and airborne support. This brigade includes the (GIS) as a mobile intervention unit for specialized crisis response and the 1º Reggimento Carabinieri Paracadutisti "" for airborne military policing duties, enabling rapid deployment in both domestic and international scenarios. These branch-specific structures function under the overarching oversight of the Joint Special Forces Operations Command (COFS) to ensure interoperability across services.

Italian Army Special Forces

9th Parachute Assault Regiment "Col Moschin"

The 9th Parachute Assault Regiment "Col Moschin" traces its origins to the 10th Regiment Arditi, established on 20 July 1942 during World War II as an elite assault unit of the Italian Royal Army, specializing in shock tactics and sabotage. Following the war's end and dissolution in 1946, it was reformed on 20 April 1953 as the Parachute Saboteurs Company in Cesano, Rome, evolving into a battalion by 1961 and achieving full regimental status on 24 June 1995. Headquartered at Caserma "Vannucci" in Livorno, Tuscany, the regiment maintains a compact force of approximately 300-400 highly trained operators, serving as the Italian Army's premier Tier 1 special operations unit under the Army Special Forces Command, which coordinates with the Joint Special Forces Operations Command (COFS). The regiment's primary missions emphasize capabilities in high-risk environments, including to gather intelligence behind enemy lines, precision raids to neutralize threats, hostage rescue operations, and counter-terrorism strikes against insurgent networks. These roles position "Col Moschin" as a versatile force capable of operating independently or in multinational coalitions, focusing on rapid deployment and overwhelming force in urban, rural, or hostile terrains. Operators are equipped with state-of-the-art systems tailored for assault operations, such as advanced sniper rifles like the TRG-42 for long-range precision, specialized gear for HALO (high-altitude low-opening) and HAHO (high-altitude high-opening) parachute insertions, and unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) integrated for real-time targeting and surveillance support. "Col Moschin" demonstrated its direct action prowess during Operation Enduring Freedom in from 2001 to 2014, where it led Task Force 45 starting in 2006, conducting capture-kill missions against high-value and terrorist targets as part of NATO's ISAF efforts. These operations involved insertions, firefights, and intelligence-driven raids to disrupt insurgent leadership, underscoring the regiment's role in multinational campaigns. As of 2025, the regiment participated in the joint ITASOF exercise.

4th Alpini Paratroopers Regiment

The has its historical roots in the 4th Alpini Regiment, established on November 1, 1882, as part of Italy's mountain infantry corps, with early battalions tracing back to the unification era in the 1860s. The Monte Cervino Battalion was specifically formed on November 10, 1915, during in as a reserve unit of the 4th Alpini Regiment, specializing in ski and mountain operations; it participated in major engagements such as the defense of Passo della Borcola, assaults on Monte Vodice, and battles on before being disbanded in 1919. Reformed during in October 1941 as the Skiers Battalion "Monte Cervino" within the 4th Alpini Regiment, it conducted alpine reconnaissance and sabotage missions on the Italian front until the armistice in 1943. Postwar, the unit's legacy influenced the creation of an Parachute Platoon in 1963 within the 4th Alpini Regiment at , which evolved into a company in 1973 and was officially designated the Alpini Paratroopers Company "Monte Cervino" in 1990, inheriting the battalion's traditions. In 1996, the company expanded into the full Alpini Paratroopers Battalion "Monte Cervino," and by 1999, it was integrated into the Special Forces under the Special Forces Command (COMFOSE). On September 25, 2004, the battalion was elevated to regimental status as the , carrying the traditions of the Monte Cervino Battalion and focusing on ranger-style operations in extreme environments. The regiment, comprising around 800 personnel including command elements, a services company, and an operational battalion with specialized platoons, relocated from its original base in to Montorio Veronese near in 2011. Its personnel undergo rigorous selection, including the demanding "Ranger Course" emphasizing endurance in alpine conditions. The regiment's primary roles include conducting long-range patrols and missions in mountainous and regions, cold-weather operations, and providing specialized support to conventional forces in high-altitude or extreme terrain scenarios. It excels in , , and close protection tasks tailored to alpine warfare, distinguishing it as the Italian Army's premier unit for mountain . Unique capabilities encompass expertise in , , and high-altitude parachute insertions, enabling operations in environments where standard units face significant challenges. Equipment features specialized cold-weather gear for sub-zero conditions, lightweight 60mm mortars such as the Hirtenberger M6C-210 for mobile , and modular assault rifles like the ARX 160 adapted for high-mobility use. Notable operations include deployments during United Nations missions in in the 1990s, where elements supported UNIFIL peacekeeping efforts in rugged terrain, and extensive mountain operations in during the 2000s as part of the (ISAF). In , starting from 2002, the protected high-value Afghan officials and conducted counter-insurgency patrols against and forces in the Hindu Kush mountains; in 2003, it operated within Task Force "Nibbio" in , executing and in high-altitude areas. These missions highlighted the unit's proficiency in integrating alpine skills with tactics to enhance operational effectiveness in contested environments. As of 2025, the participated in Flintlock 2024 and evaluated the machine gun for use. It also conducted SABRE 2023 and joint airborne operations in 2023.

185th Parachute Reconnaissance Target Acquisition Regiment "Folgore"

The 185th Parachute Reconnaissance Regiment "Folgore" (185º RRAO) was established on 3 April 2000 from elements of the preexisting 185th Parachute Artillery Regiment "Folgore", with a significant upgrade to Tier-1 status in 2017 that enhanced its integration within the Italian Army's framework. Headquartered in , , the regiment comprises approximately 400-500 highly selected personnel, including officers, non-commissioned officers, and specialized volunteers who undergo rigorous multi-year training to earn their "" qualification. The unit traces its lineage briefly to the storied 185th Parachute Division "Folgore" of , renowned for its defensive stand at . The regiment's primary roles center on deep reconnaissance missions in contested environments, providing critical to support joint operations. It conducts terminal air guidance for precision strikes on high-value targets, electronic warfare support through (SIGINT) collection, and (HUMINT) gathering to aid national agencies like the AISE. These capabilities enable the 185º RRAO to operate ahead of main forces, designating targets for airstrikes and facilitating surveillance without direct engagement. Personnel are equipped with advanced tools suited to covert operations, including night vision goggles for low-light mobility, SIGINT systems for intercepting communications, and laser designators for guiding precision-guided munitions. Additional gear encompasses encrypted radios like the , high-magnification optics such as 60x spotters, and lightweight weapons including the assault rifle and 17 pistol. In operations, the regiment has provided reconnaissance and targeting support in during the 2010s, including contributions to coalition efforts under Operation Ancient Babylon and training local forces in 2017. More recently, in the 2020s, it has participated in EU missions across Africa, such as Task Force Takuba in starting in 2020 and ongoing assistance to the National Guard since 2018. As of 2025, the regiment took part in the Falena I exercise and Emerald Warrior 2025.

Italian Navy Special Forces

Comando Raggruppamento Subacquei e Incursori "Teseo Tesei" (COMSUBIN)

The Comando Raggruppamento Subacquei e Incursori "Teseo Tesei" (COMSUBIN) traces its origins to 1952, when the incursori (raiders) component was established at the Varignano fortress in , building on Italy's pioneering legacy in combat diving from and II. Named after Teseo Tesei, a renowned who led daring attacks during the war, the unit was formalized in its current structure on February 15, 1960, under the direction of Gino Birindelli. Headquartered in , COMSUBIN functions as the 's central command for , encompassing over 1,000 personnel across its various subgroups and support elements. COMSUBIN's primary roles focus on amphibious assaults, to clear obstacles or targets, and maritime counter-terrorism operations, often conducted in coordination with naval assets. These missions emphasize stealthy insertions via sea, leveraging the unit's expertise in covert maritime environments to support broader naval objectives, including integration with for deep-water approaches and surface vessels for rapid deployment. As part of the Joint Special Forces Operations Command (COFS), COMSUBIN contributes to multinational and joint exercises, enhancing with allied forces. At its core, COMSUBIN coordinates specialized subgroups, including the Gruppo Operativo Incursori (GOI) for direct-action incursions and the Gruppo Operativo Subacquei (GOS) for advanced diving tasks, alongside training schools, a , and research offices. This structure ensures comprehensive operational readiness, drawing from historical ties to the (X MAS), the special assault unit that pioneered human-guided torpedoes and tactics, sinking or damaging over 72,000 tons of Allied warships and 130,000 tons of merchant vessels. The command's heritage is honored through numerous military decorations, including one awarded to the X MAS. To execute its missions, COMSUBIN personnel utilize advanced equipment such as closed-circuit rebreathers for silent underwater navigation, specialized combat swimmer gear including oxygen-independent breathing apparatus, and fast insertion craft from the Gruppo Navale Speciale for swift, low-signature approaches to coastal or offshore targets. These assets, including support vessels like the patrol boat, enable operations in diverse environments, from shallow coastal zones to deep-sea insertions.

Gruppo Operativo Incursori (GOI)

The Gruppo Operativo Incursori (GOI) is the Italian Navy's elite raider subgroup, specializing in hybrid land-sea operations as part of the broader framework. Established in the within the Comando Raggruppamento Subacquei e Incursori "Teseo Tesei" (COMSUBIN), draws its lineage from the renowned of the World War II-era 10th Light Flotilla MAS (), pioneers in underwater sabotage and naval assaults. Comprising approximately 100 to 150 highly trained operators, the GOI operates under COMSUBIN's administrative oversight while maintaining operational autonomy for maritime-focused missions. The GOI's core roles encompass silent maritime insertions for covert approaches, high-risk boarding actions on vessels, and specialized from sea-based platforms to support broader objectives like or collection. These capabilities are tailored for scenarios involving coastal threats, including attacks on ports or up to 40 kilometers inland, and counter-terrorism responses on merchant or passenger ships. By integrating naval expertise with ground maneuverability, the unit addresses asymmetric threats in littoral environments, emphasizing precision and minimal detectability. Training for GOI selection is exceptionally demanding, lasting approximately 17 months across multiple phases, including basic aquatic endurance, grueling land marches with heavy loads (up to 40 kg), and culminating in integrated amphibious simulations—with a success rate of only about 10% among volunteers. This regimen ensures proficiency in operating submersibles, naval craft, and specialized weapons for . In operations, the GOI contributed to (ISAF) missions in during the 2000s, conducting riverine patrols and as part of the multinational Task Force 45 from 2005 to 2016. The unit also supported anti-piracy efforts in the through the 2010s and into the 2020s, providing boarding teams and counter-terrorism expertise within EU NAVFOR to deter and disrupt pirate activities off the . These deployments highlight the GOI's versatility in adapting maritime skills to expeditionary and multinational contexts.

Gruppo Operativo Subacquei (GOS)

The Gruppo Operativo Subacquei (GOS) traces its origins to 1849 with the establishment of the Italian 's first diver school in , and was formalized as the dedicated operational diving unit within the Comando Raggruppamento Subacquei e Incursori "Teseo Tesei" (COMSUBIN) following the latter's reorganization in 1960 to consolidate naval capabilities. Based in Varignano, , the GOS shares facilities with the Gruppo Operativo Incursori (GOI) under COMSUBIN's headquarters, enabling coordinated maritime support missions. The GOS primarily focuses on technical and support roles in maritime environments, including combat diving for underwater demolitions and salvage operations, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), improvised explosive device disposal (IEDD), vessel damage inspection and repair, and search and rescue tasks. Its personnel, numbering in the several hundreds and comprising both male and female divers qualified after a rigorous one-year training course, operate from seven EOD diving teams (Nuclei SDAI) positioned near major Italian seaports to ensure rapid response. These teams support both military and civilian agencies, emphasizing port security through the neutralization of underwater threats. Key capabilities of the GOS include deep-sea for distressed rescue operations up to depths of 300 meters, mine countermeasures as part of broader EOD missions, and advanced diving techniques ranging from shallow-water air scuba to under-ice environments using mixed gases like . As of 2025, GOS capabilities are further enhanced by the SDO-SuRS ship, enabling operations up to 300 meters and supporting missions. Divers are also paratrooper-qualified for rapid deployment, and in certain exercises, they have coordinated with units like the Reparto Eliassalto for aerial insertion support. In operational contexts, the GOS has conducted EOD missions in the Mediterranean to address from historical conflicts, contributing to regional maritime safety. More recently, GOS elements have provided diving support in multinational exercises throughout the 2020s, enhancing alliance interoperability in and underwater threat neutralization scenarios.

Italian Air Force Special Forces

17th Raiders Wing (17º Stormo Incursori)

The , designated as the 17º Stormo Incursori, serves as the 's primary special operations unit, specializing in high-risk missions that integrate air and ground forces. Established on April 2, 2008, at near , the unit evolved from the earlier Reparto Incursori Aeronautica Militare (RIAM), which was formed in 2003, and traces its operational roots to World War II-era predecessors like the Distruttori della (ADRA), a paratrooper sabotage group activated in July 1942. With approximately 100-200 personnel organized into operational teams of 6-12 members and dedicated training elements, the wing operates under the 1st Air Brigade and focuses on selecting, training, and deploying elite incursori for across interforce and international contexts. The unit's core roles encompass airfield seizures through raids, to coordinate precision strikes, (CSAR), and personnel recovery missions, emphasizing air-to-land integration known as Special Operations Air to Land Integration (SOALI). Incursori are trained for covert insertions via parachute jumps, including high-altitude low-opening (HALO) and high-altitude high-opening (HAHO) techniques, to enable rapid deployment behind enemy lines. They employ advanced equipment such as laser target designators for guiding airstrikes and integrate closely with assets, including the F-35 Lightning II for in contested environments. Historically, the wing's predecessor units conducted daring airfield raids during , exemplified by ADRA operations in where, on June 18, 1943, paratroopers destroyed 25 U.S. B-24 Liberator bombers at Bengasi airfield, disrupting Allied air operations. In the modern era, the 17º Stormo Incursori has supported international missions, including deployments to as part of Task Force 45 starting in 2007, where detachments like "Icaro Uno Zero" conducted and recovery operations over four-month rotations.

9th Wing "Francesco Baracca" Support Role

The 9th Wing "Francesco Baracca" was established on February 26, 1934, at Ciampino airfield as a bombardment unit of the Regia Aeronautica, initially focused on strategic bombing roles during the pre-World War II era. Following the war, the unit underwent significant restructuring, reconstituting in 1967 as a fighter-interceptor wing equipped with F-104 Starfighters, before transitioning to rotary-wing operations in the early 21st century, enabling its modern special operations support role upon integration into the 1st Special Operations Air Brigade in 2006. Headquartered at Grazzanise Air Base in Caserta since 1963, the wing operates primarily through its 21st Flight Group "Tiger," which employs HH-101A Caesar helicopters derived from the Merlin AW101 platform, providing advanced rotary-wing assets tailored for high-risk environments. The wing previously operated HH-212A helicopters for similar roles, which were retired in February 2024. In its support role for Italian special forces, the 9th Wing delivers critical aviation mobility, including infiltration and exfiltration of ground teams, (MEDEVAC) for casualties under combat conditions, and (CAS) through integrated fire capabilities. These functions are executed as part of Tier 2 Special Operations Support (SOOS), enabling rapid deployment and extraction in denied areas while coordinating closely with the for seamless joint insertions. The wing's helicopters are equipped for tactical transport, , and personnel recovery, ensuring operational flexibility for , , and special units during multinational missions. Key capabilities include proficiency in night operations, facilitated by night-vision goggles (NVG) and infrared sensors on the HH-101A, allowing low-visibility insertions and extractions even in contested airspace. Integration with incursori units, such as those from the 9th Parachute Assault Regiment "Col Moschin" and the Carabinieri's , is achieved through joint training exercises emphasizing encrypted communications, advanced armaments, and synchronized tactics for high-threat scenarios. These enhancements enable the wing to conduct (CSAR) missions, recovering isolated personnel under fire while providing real-time situational awareness to ground teams. Operationally, the 9th Wing supported coalition efforts during Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2003 to 2006, conducting CSAR, reconnaissance, and transport missions to aid in securing key objectives amid urban and desert environments. Its helicopters have also contributed to international , including ISAF operations in for MEDEVAC and logistical support, demonstrating reliability in prolonged deployments. In recent years, the unit has extended its reach to broader engagements in 2024, aligning with Italy's strategic commitments through enhanced mobility for teams in multinational exercises.

Carabinieri Special Units

Gruppo di Intervento Speciale (GIS)

The (GIS) was established on February 6, 1978, by the General Command of the in response to the escalating during Italy's "Years of Lead," marking it as the nation's first specialized unit within a police force. Initially comprising about 36 operators drawn from the 1st Parachute Battalion "," the unit has since grown to an elite force of approximately 100 highly trained personnel, headquartered at the 2nd Mobile Brigade in , . This compact size enables rapid deployment and specialized focus, with the GIS operating under direct authority from the General Command and the Ministry of the Interior for high-threat domestic scenarios. The primary roles of the GIS center on counterterrorism interventions, hostage rescue operations, and VIP protection within urban and domestic environments, emphasizing precision tactics to neutralize threats while minimizing collateral damage. Operators are trained for high-risk scenarios, including direct action assaults, special reconnaissance, and crisis negotiation, with capabilities honed through rigorous programs that include expert marksmanship, explosive breaching, and long-range sniper engagements. Their equipment encompasses advanced body armor for ballistic and environmental protection, non-lethal tools such as tasers and flashbang grenades for de-escalation, and lethal options like Beretta ARX160 assault rifles, HK416 carbines, and Sako TRG-42 sniper rifles equipped with night-vision optics. These assets support the unit's ability to conduct operations in confined spaces, often in coordination with other Italian law enforcement tactical teams. During the 1980s, the GIS played a key role in combating the terrorist group, with its debut mission on December 29, 1980, involving a daring assault on Prison to regain control from rioting inmates who had taken 18 guards , successfully freeing all captives without fatalities. The unit's efforts extended to numerous interventions against activities throughout the decade, contributing to the eventual dismantling of the group's operational capacity through targeted raids and intelligence-driven operations. In 2004, the GIS expanded its scope with international deployment to as part of Operation Ancient Babylon, where it provided support, conducted high-value target captures, and secured humanitarian aid convoys amid insurgent threats. This mission, running from 2003 to 2006, highlighted the unit's evolution into a versatile force capable of overseas high-threat interventions. More recently, on June 24, 2024, GIS operators conducted a successful rescue in Siracusa, , liberating a 19-year-old held captive over a debt and arresting two suspects.

1st Carabinieri Paratroopers Regiment "Tuscania"

The 1st Paratroopers Regiment "" traces its origins to 1963, when it was established as a within the Italian Army's Paratroopers Brigade "Folgore" in , evolving into a full regiment by 1996 to fulfill dual military and policing roles under the Corps. Based at Caserma Vannucci in , the unit comprises approximately 550 personnel, including specialized elements in its 1st Company dedicated to support. This structure enables rapid deployment for airborne tasks while maintaining the 's mandate, distinguishing it from purely combat-oriented Army units. The regiment's primary roles encompass airborne military policing, in conflict zones, and VIP security during international deployments, blending functions with expeditionary capabilities. It supports territorial units in challenging terrains, ensures public order through quick-response interventions, and provides close protection for diplomatic personnel abroad. In high-threat environments, the offers operational backing to the Carabinieri's (GIS) for enhanced security missions. Key capabilities include parachute assaults for positional occupation and defense, crowd management techniques adapted for unstable regions, and integration in joint operations alongside Army paratroopers or multinational forces. Personnel undergo rigorous training in airborne insertions, urban control tactics, and collaborative maneuvers, equipping the unit for versatile support in peacekeeping and stabilization efforts. Notable operations include deployments to in the , where elements participated in the UNOSOM II mission and Operation Restore Hope from 1992 to 1994, conducting security patrols and public order maintenance amid civil unrest; for its contributions, received a Silver Medal for Military Valor. In , from the early 2000s through the 2020s, the Tuscania secured Italian diplomatic facilities under ISAF and missions, culminating in the 2021 Operation Aquila Omnia, where paratroopers evacuated over 5,000 personnel from amid the advance.

Training and Operations

Selection and Training Processes

The selection process for Italian special forces operators begins with a demanding initial phase focused on , , and aptitude screening, typically lasting 1-2 months across branches. Candidates undergo a series of tests, including timed runs (e.g., 2000 meters in under 8 minutes 20 seconds), pull-ups (minimum 10), (e.g., 50 meters in under 2 minutes 15 seconds while wearing uniform), and endurance marches such as 40 km night hikes with 18 kg loads completed in under 7 hours. Psychological evaluations assess motivation, stress tolerance, and team compatibility, often resulting in high attrition rates; for instance, in Ranger-related special forces training programs, approximately 41% of recruits drop out, primarily due to voluntary withdrawal or failure to meet standards. Branch-specific training pipelines build on this foundation, tailored to each service's operational needs while emphasizing core skills like close-quarters combat, survival, and specialized mobility. In the , under the Comando delle Forze Speciali dell'Esercito (COMFOSE), candidates first complete a 4-week basic parachutist course at the Centro Addestramento di Paracadutismo in , followed by a 12-week Operatore Basico per le Operazioni Speciali (OBOS) module and a 55-week incursori specialization phase covering advanced combat, amphibious operations, and environmental mobility (e.g., or ); the full process spans about 2 years. The Italian Navy's COMSUBIN requires volunteers under age 29 to pass pre-course aquatic and physical tests (e.g., 5-meter dive, 300-meter run, rope climb), leading to a 34-week propedeutico incursori course divided into land-based (weapons, tactics, ) and water-based (, diving, boat handling) phases, culminating in a comprehensive 1-year incursori program at the Scuola Incursori. For the Italian Air Force's 17º Stormo Incursori, the pipeline includes a 6-month selection and basic training phase at Furbara, focusing on , combat techniques, and airborne operations, followed by a 3-month advanced phase for mission-specific skills like free-fall parachuting and joint terminal attack control. Joint elements are coordinated through the Comando Operazioni Speciali delle Forze Armate (COFS), established in 2004 and enhanced post-2010 to promote among , , , and units. COFS-mandated training includes shared modules on language proficiency, survival in austere environments, and cross-branch tactics, ensuring operators can integrate seamlessly in multinational or combined operations; for example, annual exercises like Gazza Ladra test these capabilities across services. A draft law introduced in September 2025 proposes to expand the role of the in cybersecurity, including specific cyber defense training programs in military institutes and schools to address hybrid threats and enhance resilience against cyber attacks.

Notable Joint Operations and Exercises

Italian special forces have participated in joint operations since the early 1990s, with the (UNITAF) in serving as a pivotal example of inter-branch . In 1993, during Operation Restore Hope and the subsequent UNOSOM II, elements from the Italian Army's 9th Parachute Assault Regiment "Col Moschin," the Navy's Gruppo Operativo Incursori (GOI), and Carabinieri special units, including the (GIS), coordinated efforts to secure deliveries and conduct in . This involvement culminated in intense engagements, such as the on July 2, 1993, where joint teams from these units supported armored columns against Somali militia ambushes, resulting in the loss of three Italian soldiers but demonstrating effective cross-service tactics in urban combat environments. In the post-9/11 era, Italian special forces exemplified joint coordination under the Comando Operativo delle Forze Speciali (COFS), established in 2004, during and the (ISAF) in . From 2006 onward, units such as the 9th Parachute Assault Regiment "Col Moschin," GOI, the Air Force's , and GIS formed Task Force 45, a multinational that conducted raids, gathering, and high-value target captures against and networks in regions like and . COFS oversaw the integration of these branches, enabling seamless air-ground-sea operations that contributed to over 200 missions by 2014, enhancing Italy's role in NATO-led counter-terrorism efforts. Recent developments in the 2020s have seen Italian special forces engage in counter-insurgency operations in the through Takuba, a European initiative focused on advising and accompanying Malian forces against jihadist groups. Launched in 2020 under French command, Takuba integrated Italian personnel from the 9th Parachute Assault Regiment "Col Moschin" and other COFS units with counterparts from , , and , conducting joint patrols and training in northern 's volatile areas like until the mission's withdrawal in 2022 due to political changes in . This operation highlighted COFS-coordinated multi-domain tactics, including drone-supported reconnaissance and rapid response to insurgent threats, aligning with EU efforts to stabilize the region. Ongoing anti-piracy efforts off the further underscore the joint operational tempo of Italian special forces, particularly through the Naval Force's , which Italy has supported since 2008. The Navy's GOI provides specialized boarding teams and maritime interdiction capabilities aboard Italian frigates like the ITS Espero, collaborating with Army and Air Force assets for aerial surveillance and logistics in the and . These operations, involving over 20 Italian deployments by 2025, have deterred pirate attacks on commercial shipping, with COFS ensuring interoperability in scenarios combining and vessel protection. A landmark joint exercise in 2025, Gazza Ladra (Thieving Magpie), tested COFS's full-spectrum capabilities in multi-domain warfare from March 31 to April 11. Organized under NATO's Article 5 framework and integrated with the Joint Operations Command's Joint Stars 25, the drill involved all COFS units—including the 9th Parachute Assault "Col Moschin," GOI, , GIS, and 1st Paratroopers ""—in simulated scenarios across central and , such as citizen evacuations, hostage rescues, and urban counter-terrorism amid drone swarms and hybrid threats. Air Force contributions, including HH-101 helicopters from the 9th Wing and MQ-9 drones from the 32nd Wing, provided critical support for 14 rotary- and fixed-wing assets, validating inter-branch synchronization in high-intensity, contested environments.

References

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