SPECIAL FORCES UNIT (SFU)

The Special Forces Unit is one of the most attractive and highly operational units in the force. Many new recruits yearn for the excitement and privilege of a posting to this elite unit. Due to its rigid selection and training criteria, its personnel are a special breed and as such proud of their uniqueness.

The unit was formed on 5 July 2007 with the primary aim of providing security to the head of state and to be able to conduct hostage rescue missions. The unit’s continuous development and evolution led to the creation of a specialised team, tasked with the mission of conducting maritime operations during the peak of the scourge of piracy in the Indian Ocean. That team quickly proved its worth and began conducting high-risk missions to rescue fellow countrymen that had been captured by Somali Pirates. Since then, the operational capabilities of Tazar, have continued to expand. The unit specialises in Maritime Interdiction Operations, counter terrorism operations, hostage rescue operations, close protection, just to name a few.

Understandably, soldiers posted to this unit have to undergo tough and vigorous training to mentally and physically prepared to handle any tasks assigned. Experienced instructors and close collaboration with the Special Operations Community worldwide ensure that the unit continues to provide quality and relevant training that adapts to the ever-changing dynamics of threats that our proud nation may potentially face in the future.

Training is specially tailored to ensure that combat skills are at its peak and that personnel are able to deploy, operate and sustain themselves on land, air and sea.

The unit personnel are permanently embedded with the Seychelles Coast Guard for tasks at sea, varying from routine Visit Board Search Seizure (VBSS) to a high-risk, non-compliant boarding mission, as has been the case with several counter-narcotics operations.

The Tazar Unit is indeed a remarkable force multiplier for our small defence forces and continues to maintain the highest level of professionalism required by the force.