Garud Commando Force
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 Commando Force
6 February 2004 - present
GRTC
Classified, India
॥प्रहार से सुरक्षा॥(Translation: Defence by Offence)
1 Ashok Chakra, 8 Shaurya Chakra
Garud forces are tasked with the protection of critical Air Force bases and installations, search and rescue, and disaster relief during calamities.[4] In 2004, Garuds were deployed in Congo[5] as part of the UN peace keeping operations.
Uniforms and insignia[edit]
Garud airmen wear the "Airman Beret Badge" on the cap. They are also parachute trained, and wear the para wings above the right pocket. The "Garud Force Patch" can be seen worn on the sleeve. The Garud Commando Badge, which was worn on the right pocket and resembles the NSG badge, is no longer in use. Instead they now have a Garud Winged Badge which is gold in colour and worn on the left chest, similar to where pilot/aircrew wings are worn.
The Garuds used to wear a black beret, instead of the traditional maroon beret of the other Indian Special Forces units, but now wear the maroon beret. They sport the operational paratroopers brevet on the right chest. The formation insignia is worn on the left shoulder. The Garuds are also entitled to wear "IAF GARUD" titles on the sleeves.
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