The Special Boarding Unit (特別警備隊, Tokubetsukeibitai?) is a special forces unit established by the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Forces on March 27, 2001 in response to a previous spy ship incursion that occurred on the Noto Peninsula in 1999. The unit was created to perform similar roles to those undertaken by American Navy SEALs and the British SBS. Its structure is based on the SBS. They are based in Etajima, Hiroshima.
Their field involves maritime anti-terrorist duties, including operations where arms are known to be involved. However, their duties and responsibilities overlap with those of the Special Security Team, the Japan Coast Guard's counter-terrorist unit.
Since the SBU is a special forces unit, any kind of matters regarding acquisition of information on personnel, training and weapons are forbidden since they are highly classified. Its operators are seen publicly with balaclavas on to protect their identities.
Read more about Special Boarding Unit: History, Foreign Relations, Formation, Weapons and Equipment, Training
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