1. United States Navy SEALs Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) Training:
- BUD/S is an extremely physically and mentally demanding initial training phase for U.S. Navy SEAL candidates. It consists of over six months of rigorous training that tests all aspects of a candidate's abilities, including endurance, strength, teamwork, decision-making, and problem-solving.
2. British Special Air Service (SAS) Selection and Training:
- The SAS selection process and training are considered among the most demanding special forces selections worldwide. They involve rigorous mental and physical testing, endurance marches, mountain warfare training, urban combat scenarios, navigation and survival techniques, and various specialized warfare skills.
3. Russian Spetsnaz Forces Selection and Training:
- Spetsnaz training, particularly within the GRU (Main Intelligence Directorate) and FSB (Federal Security Service), involves intense combat training covering close-quarters combat, weapons proficiency, hand-to-hand combat, mountain warfare, amphibious operations, and specialized skills necessary for special operations tasks.
4. French Foreign Legion Basic Training:
- Basic training in the French Foreign Legion is known for its high level of difficulty and attrition rate. It's conducted in a physically and mentally demanding environment focused on endurance, discipline, camaraderie, and the ability to thrive in harsh conditions.
5. Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Special Forces Training:
- Israeli special forces (such as the famed Sayeret Matkal) go through highly selective and strenuous training designed to test physical endurance, survival tactics, urban warfare readiness, advanced shooting and combat techniques, and leadership abilities.
It's important to note that while these programs are exceptionally challenging, they also instill valuable skills, discipline, and resilience among their soldiers. These trainings not only prepare them for demanding operations but also foster a strong sense of unit cohesion and self-reliance.