SPECIAL BOAT SERVICE
UNITED KINGDOM SPECIAL FORCES | ROYAL NAVY
“Not by Strength, by Guile”
Unit Overview
The Special Boat Service (SBS) is the Royal Navy’s special forces unit and the maritime counterpart to the SAS. Originally formed as the Special Boat Section during WWII, it became the SBS in 1987.
Specializing in maritime counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and sabotage, the SBS operates from submarines, surface vessels, and underwater insertion platforms. They are considered among the world’s premier naval special forces.
Maritime Equipment
- HK416A5 Assault Rifle
- SEAL Delivery Vehicle Mini-Submarine
- Rigid Inflatable Boats Fast Attack Craft
- LAR V Draeger Rebreather System
Notable Operations
SBS conducted reconnaissance missions ahead of the main invasion, including the retaking of South Georgia island.
SBS teams secured oil platforms in the Persian Gulf and conducted riverine operations in southern Iraq.
SBS operators evacuated British citizens from Libya and conducted reconnaissance for NATO operations.
CLASSIFIED: Selection & Specializations
SBS selection is identical to SAS selection for the first phase (joint UKSF selection), after which candidates undergo specialized maritime training including combat diving, small boat handling, submarine operations, and underwater demolitions.
The SBS is organized into four squadrons: C (Swimmer/Diver), X (Assault), M (Boat), and Z (Training). Each squadron contains specialized troops focusing on different insertion methods: diving, parachuting, climbing, and mobility. All operators are cross-trained in multiple disciplines.
