“Bordo Bereliler”(Maroon Berets): Turkey’s Most Elite Military Special Forces Unit

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — In previous articles, we have extensively explored Turkey’s armament systems. Today, we delve into the country’s special forces, focusing on its most elite units.

According to military observers, the most elite special forces unit within the Turkish military is the “Bordo Bereliler” or “Maroon Berets”.

Another notable elite unit is the “OKK,” akin to the U.S. Army’s Green Berets.

The “Bordo Bereliler” was established in 1952 by members of the Turkish military.

Anyone from the military desiring to join this elite group must undergo a rigorous selection process and training that spans three to four years.

Candidates for this elite unit must be capable of handling all challenges and engage in combat across all types of weather conditions and terrains, which are beyond the capabilities of regular military forces.

For the “Bordo Bereliler,” failure is not an option; they are required to succeed in every situation.

The primary purpose of establishing the “Bordo Bereliler” is to defend Turkey and prevent attacks from both internal and external threats.

This elite force has been actively involved in numerous operations and clandestine missions both within Turkey and internationally, particularly targeting the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which is recognized as a terrorist organization.

One of the most significant successes of the “Bordo Bereliler” occurred in 1999 when they captured PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan.

Units like the “Bordo Bereliler” are among the world’s special forces that are consistently tested and involved in covert operations in combat zones.

This is particularly pertinent given Turkey’s location in a region that is often unstable. Turkey shares borders with Syria and Iraq, is near traditional foe Greece, and not far from Iran and Israel.

This geopolitical context ensures that Turkish special forces, including the “Bordo Bereliler” and “OKK,” are perpetually engaged in various missions and operations.

In recent years, the “Bordo Bereliler” has also been significantly involved in combating the terrorist group ISIS. — DSA