Garud Commando Force | |
---|---|
Founded | 6 February 2004 | - present
Country | India |
Branch | Indian Air Force |
Type | Special Forces |
Size | Classified |
Garrison/HQ | GRTC Classified |
Patron | Garuda |
Motto(s) | ॥प्रहार से सुरक्षा॥ (Translation: Defence by Offence) |
Engagements | MONUC (Congo) Security during Aero India 2005-2013 Kashmir conflict 2016 Pathankot attack Insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir |
Decorations | 1 Ashok Chakra, 8 Shaurya Chakras |
Insignia | |
Special Forces shoulder tab | |
Sleeve patch |
The Garud Commando Force is the special forces unit of the Indian Air Force. It was formed in February 2004 and has a current strength of over 1500+ personnel.[1][2][3] The unit derives its name from Garuda, a Hindu deity.
Garud forces are tasked with protecting critical Air Force bases and installations, search and rescue, and disaster relief during calamities.[4] In 2004, Garuds were deployed in the Congo[5] as part of the UN peace keeping operations.