Garud Commando Force
| Garud Commando Force | |
|---|---|
Garud Winged Badge | |
| Founded | 6 February 2004 – present (21 years, 4 months) |
| Country | India |
| Branch | Indian Air Force |
| Type | Special Forces |
| Size | 1,080-1,500 (est.) (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 of the Indian Air Force. It was formed on 6 February 2004 and with a plan to have around 2,000-personnel strength. 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. In 2004, Garuds were deployed in the Congo as part of the UN peace keeping operations.