Vietnamese Special Forces: Elite Commando Training & Readiness

The 1st Special Forces Brigade of the Vietnam People’s Army is deep into its training regimen, emphasizing not just physical prowess and tactical skill, but also the mental fortitude required for specialized operations. A recent visit to the brigade’s training grounds revealed a rigorous program designed to cultivate elite commandos capable of operating in diverse and challenging environments.

At the heart of the training is a focus on martial arts, viewed as integral to close-quarters combat. Trainees were observed practicing joint bending, grappling, and suppression techniques with precision and rhythm, responding to concise commands from their instructors. These skills aren’t simply for self-defense; they are designed for speed, accuracy, stealth, and the ability to subdue targets in confined spaces, a crucial element of special forces operations.

Lieutenant Colonel Le Huu Khai, a squad leader with over 25 years of experience in special forces, stressed the importance of a holistic approach. “Physical fitness and courage are necessary conditions,” he explained, “but the sufficient conditions are mastery of tactics and techniques, and the ability to immediately assess and respond to situations.” He emphasized the need for soldiers to utilize terrain, effectively employ weaponry, and seamlessly coordinate within teams.

The training extends beyond traditional combat skills. Reflex training using tennis balls is employed to improve reaction time and concentration under pressure. Swimming and diving are also prioritized, recognizing the need for adaptability in aquatic environments. As Lt. Col. Khai noted, real-world scenarios often demand operating in harsh conditions – mud, rain, intense heat, and swarms of insects – requiring constant vigilance and sensory awareness.

Mentorship plays a vital role in the brigade’s success. Experienced combatants like Major Tran Van Thanh, a veteran of 23 years, focus on imparting practical knowledge and building character in younger soldiers. Thanh, originally from Hung Yen province, highlighted the importance of camouflage and physical endurance, skills honed through countless hours spent concealed in challenging conditions. “Every little movement can reveal our position,” he said, “so camouflage requires constant alertness.”

The emphasis on mental resilience is equally strong. Major Tran Van Thanh believes that composure, strong will, and the ability to analyze situations are decisive factors in modern warfare, particularly when facing a numerically superior enemy. “If you do not remain calm and proactively analyze the situation, you can easily be caught off guard,” he stated. The brigade’s motto – “fight the majority with a few” and “defeat a large force with a small force” – is realized through ingenuity, boldness, surprise, and precision.

The brigade also prioritizes maintaining equipment. Major Hoang Thi Thuyet, working alongside her male colleagues, meticulously inspects and cleans weapons, ensuring operational readiness. Despite the traditionally male-dominated environment, she maintains a focus on training and combat preparedness, undergoing rigorous physical training alongside her peers.

Balancing military service with personal life presents unique challenges. Major Thuyet spoke of the difficulties of being away from family during critical stages of her children’s education, but emphasized the support she receives from her family and colleagues, allowing her to remain focused on her duties.

Training extends to specialized skills like urban warfare and counter-terrorism. Soldiers were observed practicing tactical rappelling from high-rise buildings, utilizing lightning rods as anchor points, and simulating scenarios involving hostage rescue and target capture. The brigade’s approach emphasizes adaptability and the ability to operate effectively in complex, unpredictable environments.

Beyond technical skills, the brigade places significant emphasis on ideological education and fostering a strong sense of political will. Brigade Commander Lieutenant Colonel Tran Kim Nam explained that the goal is to develop a unit with both strong political conviction and comprehensive combat capabilities.

The brigade also recognizes the importance of supporting its soldiers’ well-being and future prospects. According to Lt. Col. Dam Dinh Dong, the brigade party committee and command are committed to upholding national and military regulations, providing career guidance, and ensuring a smooth transition for soldiers as they approach retirement. Recognizing and honoring the contributions of veterans is also a priority, fostering a sense of stability and continued dedication.

The 1st Special Forces Brigade’s training program is a testament to the Vietnam People’s Army’s commitment to developing a highly skilled and adaptable special operations force. By combining rigorous physical and tactical training with a strong emphasis on mental resilience, mentorship, and ideological education, the brigade is preparing its soldiers to meet the challenges of modern warfare and safeguard national security.