The South African Special Forces Brigade (popularly known as "Recces") is the only Special Forces unit of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
On 1 October 1972, 1 Reconnaissance Commando was created at Oudtshoorn, South Africa. It was relocated a few years later to Durban, South Africa. This was the first South African Special Forces unit.
The South African special forces played a significant role in the country's 30 year long border war in Namibia and Angola.
South African Special Forces now consists of Special Forces Headquarters in Pretoria, 4 Special Forces Regiment in Langebaan, 5 Special Forces Regiment - Phalaborwa and the Special Forces School in Murrayhill.
4 Special Forces Regiment specialise in maritime-related activities, whereas 5 Special Forces regiment specialises more in overland techniques, especially long-range infiltration.
The Brigade is directly under the command of the Joint Operations Division of the SANDF, and unlike other similar forces worldwide, is not a part of the South African Army.
Read more about South African Special Forces Brigade: History, Operations, Selection, Operator's Badge
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