Introduction
The Special Boat Service (SBS) is one of the United Kingdom’s most elite and secretive special forces units. Often compared to the Special Air Service (SAS), the SBS specializes in maritime counter-terrorism, amphibious warfare, and covert reconnaissance. This highly trained force operates in some of the most dangerous and demanding environments, ensuring Britain’s security both at home and abroad.
Origins and History
The origins of the SBS can be traced back to World War II, when the need for highly specialized amphibious forces became apparent. It was initially formed as the Special Boat Section in 1940 and was a part of the Royal Marines. Its first missions involved small teams conducting raids on enemy-held coastlines, sabotage, and intelligence gathering. These early operations laid the foundation for the SBS’s operational style—small, highly trained units executing precision strikes.
During World War II, the SBS played a critical role in missions such as Operation Frankton in 1942, where a small team of British commandos paddled into enemy territory in canoes to attack German ships in the port of Bordeaux. This mission, later dramatized in the film The Cockleshell Heroes, showcased the SBS’s ability to strike deep behind enemy lines using stealth and ingenuity.
Following the war, the SBS was restructured and became an integral part of Britain’s special operations capabilities. It evolved significantly during conflicts such as the Korean War, Falklands War, and Gulf War, proving its value in various operational theaters.
Role and Responsibilities
The primary responsibilities of the SBS include:
- Maritime Counter-Terrorism: Protecting the UK from sea-based terrorist threats and conducting hostage rescue operations.
- Covert Reconnaissance: Gathering intelligence in enemy-held territories, often behind enemy lines.
- Amphibious Warfare: Conducting raids on enemy coastal defenses and securing beachheads.
- Direct Action Operations: Engaging high-value targets in precision strikes.
- Counter-Piracy Missions: Tackling piracy threats, particularly off the coasts of Africa and the Middle East.
Selection and Training
The SBS selection process is one of the most grueling in the world, often considered even tougher than the SAS due to the added maritime component. Candidates are usually drawn from the Royal Marines, though applications are also open to other branches of the military.
Selection Process:
- Endurance Phase – Includes long-distance navigation over rugged terrain while carrying heavy loads.
- Jungle Phase – Training in the harsh jungle environment, designed to push candidates to their limits.
- Survival and Resistance Training – Candidates are tested in survival skills and resistance to interrogation in case of capture.
- Maritime Operations Training – Covers combat diving, underwater demolition, and small boat operations.
Only a small percentage of candidates successfully pass the selection process, ensuring that only the most elite operators join the ranks of the SBS.
Notable Missions
The SBS has been involved in some of the most significant special forces operations in modern history. While much of their work remains classified, a few notable missions have been publicly acknowledged.
Falklands War (1982)
During the Falklands War, the SBS played a crucial role in covert reconnaissance and sabotage. They provided intelligence on Argentine positions and conducted raids on enemy-held islands, disrupting supply lines and enemy operations.
Gulf War (1991)
The SBS was active in Operation Desert Storm, where they conducted raids behind enemy lines in Iraq and Kuwait. They targeted Iraqi Scud missile launchers, which were being used against coalition forces and Israel.
Afghanistan and Iraq (2001-Present)
Since the Global War on Terror began, the SBS has been involved in covert counterterrorism operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. They played a key role in hunting down high-value targets, including insurgents and terrorist leaders.
Counter-Piracy Operations
The SBS has been deployed in counter-piracy missions off the coast of Somalia, where they have conducted ship-boarding operations to rescue hostages from pirate-held vessels.
Libya (2011)
During the Libyan Civil War, the SBS conducted covert missions to support rebel forces against Muammar Gaddafi’s regime. They also helped evacuate British nationals from dangerous areas.
Equipment and Weapons
The SBS is equipped with some of the most advanced weaponry and technology available to special forces.
Weapons Used by the SBS
- C8 SFW Assault Rifle – Standard issue rifle for SBS operators.
- HK MP5 – Used for counter-terrorism and close-quarters combat.
- Glock 17 – Standard sidearm.
- Accuracy International AXMC Sniper Rifle – Used for long-range precision shooting.
- Combat Diving Equipment – Includes rebreathers for stealth underwater operations.
Vehicles and Boats
- Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) – Used for high-speed maritime assaults.
- Mini Submarines – Used for covert insertion into enemy territories.
- MH-47 Chinook Helicopters – Used for rapid insertion and extraction of SBS teams.
SBS vs. SAS: What’s the Difference?
While both the SBS and SAS are elite special forces, their areas of expertise differ:
- The SAS specializes in land-based counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and direct action operations.
- The SBS focuses on maritime operations, amphibious assaults, and underwater missions.
That being said, both units often collaborate on joint missions and share similar training regimens.
Conclusion
The Special Boat Service remains one of the most elite special forces units in the world, carrying out critical missions that protect the UK and its interests. Their expertise in maritime warfare, stealth operations, and counterterrorism make them an invaluable asset to British defense. Despite their secrecy, the SBS’s impact on modern warfare and global security is undeniable.
With their highly specialized training, advanced weaponry, and unwavering dedication, the SBS continues to be at the forefront of special operations, ready to respond to threats wherever they may arise.
