MARCOS Commando – History, Eligibility, Selection Process, Salary

The MARCOS Commando (Marine Commandos) is one of India’s most elite and formidable military units, known for their unparalleled skills in specialized warfare. Established in 1987, MARCOS Commando India is tasked with handling some of the toughest and most complex operations, particularly in coastal and maritime environments. Often referred to as the “men in black” due to their distinctive black uniforms, MARCOS Commandos are trained to execute high-risk missions in any situation. This article delves into everything you need to know about MARCOS Commando training, their selection process, missions, gear, and more.

Currently, Special offers are about two thousand dedicated soldiers in this force, and they are well-known for their great work in operations like Cactus, Leech, Pawan, and Cyclone. They became even more famous for their bravery during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. They also work together with the Indian Army in tough places like Kashmir. Their motto, “The few the fearless,” really shows the spirit and commitment of this amazing force. In this article, we will learn more about the MARCOS Commandos, exploring their history, training, missions, and the important role they play in keeping our country safe.

What are MARCOS Commandos?

The MARCOS Commandos are a highly specialized force within the Indian Navy, designed for conducting covert operations. They are experts in amphibious operations, able to operate in both land and water. Their primary roles include counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and special reconnaissance, especially in maritime and coastal areas. Known for their quick and decisive action in times of crisis, MARCOS Commandos in India have participated in several major military operations, including the 2008 Mumbai Terror Attacks.

History of MARCOS

In response to increase challenges in maritime security and the need to counteract terrorist activities along India’s coast, MARCOS was established in 1987. This elite unit draws inspiration from the U.S. Navy SEALs and the British Special Boat Service (SBS), evolving into a highly capable force known for its successful missions.

The origins of MARCOS, officially termed the Indian Marine Special Forces, trace back to the early 1980s. The Indian Navy recognized the necessity for a specialized marine unit to address rising maritime threats and conduct specialized operations. Named after “Marine Commandos,” the acronym MARCOS embodies the unit’s formation, drawing inspiration from global marine special forces like the United States Navy SEALs and the British Special Boat Service.

• MARCOS, formed on February 26, 1987, as an elite special operations unit of the Indian Navy, began with a small group of highly skilled personnel. The MARCOS personnel undergo intensive training in amphibious warfare, special operations tactics, combat diving, and unconventional warfare techniques, enabling them to operate effectively in maritime, coastal, and inland environments.
• MARCOS has played a pivotal role in executing anti-piracy operations in piracy-prone areas, contributing to the safety and security of Indian vessels and their crews. Additionally, MARCOS has actively engaged in counter-terrorism operations, both within India and beyond its borders. Their deployment in sensitive areas has been critical in thwarting terrorist threats and safeguarding national security interests.
• One noteworthy operation carried out by MARCOS was “Operation Pawan” during the late 1980s amid the Sri Lankan Civil War. MARCOS played a key role in capturing crucial LTTE-held territories, significantly contributing to restoring peace in the region.

MARCOS Commando Eligibility

The Marcos Commando’s motto is “The Few The Fearless”, indicating the challenging nature of the training. Very few candidates make it to the final selection, but those who do are synonymous with bravery. Here are the eligibility criteria for becoming a Marcos commando:

• Gender: Male
• Age: 20s
• Qualification: Must be a sailor or officer in the navy.

Step By Step Process on How to Become a Marcos Commando

Before volunteering for this special force, candidates must be exceptionally strong and physically fit, as the entire process is strenuous. The selection process consists of four phases:

1. Marcos Commando: Pre Selection

• A three-day process testing physical stamina.
• Includes an aptitude test.
• Only about 20% of candidates make it past this phase.

2. 

   Marcos Commando Selection Process

Becoming a MARCOS Commando is not for the faint of heart. The MARCOS selection criteria and challenges are famously tough, with only the fittest and most determined individuals surviving. Candidates undergo multiple stages, including physical endurance tests, psychological evaluations, and extensive combat training. The selection tests candidates’ mental resilience and physical stamina in various challenging scenarios.

• A five-week process with daunting tasks, including a ‘hell week.’
• Tasks involve long runs, night marches, live ammunition training, and sleep deprivation.
• A challenging experience for strong-willed individuals.

3. Marcos Commando: Initial Qualification Training (Basic SF Training)

• A 10-week program at INS Abhimanyu.
• Includes weapons handling, ammunition and explosives training, unarmed combat, close-quarter battle training, kayaking, photography, ship intervention drills, hostage rescue, and recapture of offshore installations.
• A 3-week basic parachute course and basic combat divers course.

4. Marcos Commando: Probation Period (Advanced SF Training)

• Combat free-fall training, counter-insurgency training, anti-hijacking and anti-piracy training, clandestine operations, surveillance and reconnaissance, amphibious operations, unconventional warfare, language training, operations from submarines, sniper competence, and training on shoulder-launched missiles.
• A 4-week high-altitude commando course and desert warfare school.

MARCOS Commando Roles and Responsibilities

The MARCOS Commando roles are diverse and require a high level of expertise in various combat environments. Some of the primary roles include:

• Counter-Terrorism: MARCOS Commandos in Counter-Terrorism operations are often deployed to handle terrorist threats, especially those related to maritime operations such as hijacking or attacks on ports.
• Hostage Rescue: The MARCOS Commandos are trained to handle hostage rescue operations, ensuring minimal casualties while neutralizing threats swiftly.
• Amphibious Warfare: As experts in both land and sea operations, MARCOS Commandos execute amphibious operations to infiltrate enemy-controlled zones.
• Special Reconnaissance: MARCOS Commando reconnaissance missions are critical in providing real-time data for military operations, especially in enemy-controlled territories.
• Environmental Warfare: Commandos are also trained to operate in diverse environments, from jungles and deserts to icy mountain ranges.

Marcos Commando Age Limit

Any Indian Navy officer applying for Marcos should not be older than 20 years. Applicants should check their age before applying.

Marcos Commando Salary

The salaries of Indian Navy Marine Commandos are determined by the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC), and their pay structure includes several important components:

1. Basic Pay: A Marine Commando starts with a basic pay of Rs. 25,000 per month.
2. Ships Driver Allowance: In addition to their basic pay, they receive a ships driver allowance ranging from Rs. 8,500 to 10,000.
3. Marcos Allowance: Recognizing their unique role, Marine Commandos are granted a Marcos allowance of Rs. 25,000.
4. Allowances for Different Deployment Areas:

• • In Hard Areas, an additional 20% of their Basic Pay is provided.
  • Highly Active Field Areas come with a Highly Active Field Area Allowance of Rs. 16,900.
  • Field Area personnel receive a Field Area Allowance of Rs. 10,500.
  • In designated “Peace Areas,” they receive a Peace Area Allowance of Rs. 35,500.

5. Field Area Allowance: Rs. 16,900 (For Field Area Posting Only)

6. Field Area Allowance: Rs. 10,500

Macro Commando Successful Operations

1. Operation Pawan (1987): Accompanied the Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) to Sri Lanka to deal with LTTE’s marine elements. MARCOS swam 12 km to blow up the Jaffna jetty, avoiding detection, and returned fire when fired upon by LTTE. They swam back to the ship without casualties.
2. Operation Cactus (1988): Thwarted a coup in the Maldives by capturing a boat with 46 mercenaries and hostages who escaped after the failed coup attempt.
3. Operation Tasha (1991): Deployed two Prahars off the southern Tamil Nadu coast to stop LTTE infiltration and arms smuggling.
4. Operation Zabardast (1992): Intercepted the LTTE vessel MV Ahat smuggling arms off Madras. MARCOS boarded the vessel, captured mercenaries, and prevented LTTE from sinking it.
5. United Nations Operation in Somalia (1993): Deployed four MARCOS teams off Mogadishu to support the Indian contingent. Provided maritime special operations support to the Naval Task Force.
6. Operation Rakshak (1995): Deployed teams in Jammu & Kashmir, especially at Wular Lake, where militants freely used it to reach Srinagar. MARCOS at the lake stopped militant activity, operated on land, and killed militants, recovering arms and equipment.
7. Kargil War (1999): Tasked with covert operations behind enemy lines and assisting Indian Army operations during the conflict.
8. Operation Black Tornado (2008): Conducted to eliminate remaining terrorists during the Mumbai attacks.

MARCOS Commando Training

The selection and training process for MARCOS Commandos is one of the toughest in the world. It involves rigorous physical and mental endurance tests to ensure only the best candidates make the cut. The MARCOS Commando training focuses on a variety of specialized skills, from amphibious warfare to underwater combat. Here’s a look at some of the core elements of their training:

• Physical Endurance: Candidates must complete intense physical fitness regimes involving long-distance runs, obstacle courses, and swimming challenges.
• Combat Skills: Training includes close-quarter combat, weapon handling, and survival tactics in hostile environments.
• Amphibious Warfare: Given their maritime focus, MARCOS Commandos undergo rigorous training in underwater combat, boat operations, and stealth landings.
• Hostage Rescue and Counter-Terrorism: Special drills are conducted to prepare them for real-world situations, such as rescuing hostages or neutralizing terrorists in confined environments like ships, ports, or urban areas.

The MARCOS Training School is where this rigorous training is carried out, ensuring that only the most elite commandos make it through.

MARCOS Commando Gear and Equipment

To carry out their high-risk missions, MARCOS Commandos are equipped with advanced technology and weapons. Here’s a quick look at their MARCOS Commando gear list:

• Weapons: The INSAS rifle, AK-47, and Heckler & Koch MP5 are part of their standard armament.
• Amphibious Equipment: Specialized diving gear and underwater demolition tools are essential for their maritime operations.
• Survival Gear: MARCOS Commandos carry survival equipment, including food rations, water purification tablets, and satellite phones for communication.
• Stealth and Navigation Tools: Night-vision goggles, GPS devices, and advanced communications equipment help them execute operations under extreme conditions.

One of the key skills MARCOS Commandos possess is their underwater combat expertise, which is critical in operations involving maritime or amphibious warfare.
h3>How to Join the MARCOS Commandos

Becoming a MARCOS Commando is a challenging and competitive process. Candidates must meet specific MARCOS Commando recruitment requirements, which include passing a rigorous physical fitness test, psychological evaluation, and extensive combat training. Only those who pass these tests and demonstrate exceptional skills are selected for the elite unit.

MARCOS Commandos vs. Other Special Forces

When compared to other special forces around the world, such as the U.S. Navy SEALs or the British SAS, MARCOS Commandos stand out due to their unique amphibious warfare training. Unlike many special forces units, the MARCOS Commando is specifically trained for operations in maritime environments, making them highly specialized in MARCOS Commando vs SEALs and MARCOS Commando Navy SEALs comparison terms. They are also experts in close-quarter combat and hostage rescue, which distinguishes them from other elite units.

Interesting Facts About MARCOS Commandos

• MARCOS Commando Height: MARCOS commandos are typically of average to tall stature, with the focus being more on endurance, strength, and agility than on height.
• MARCOS Commando Qualification: To join MARCOS, candidates must be between 19 to 24 years old, have a high level of physical fitness, and be a serving member of the Indian Navy.
• MARCOS Commandos in 2025: As of 2025, MARCOS continues to train and evolve, staying at the forefront of counter-terrorism and maritime warfare.
• MARCOS Commando Uniform: The MARCOS commando uniform is iconic and easily recognizable, primarily black with special patches and insignia representing the elite nature of the unit.

MARCOS Commandos: A Symbol of Honor and Excellence

The MARCOS Commandos are the epitome of excellence in special operations. They are a symbol of India’s strength, resilience, and commitment to safeguarding its national interests. With their unmatched training and unparalleled skills, MARCOS continues to be one of the most respected special forces in the world, executing missions with precision and valor.

Whether engaging in counter-terrorism, executing amphibious operations, or handling hostage rescues, MARCOS Commandos are always ready to face any challenge head-on. Their courage and dedication make them the true warriors of India’s armed forces.

For more information, you can explore the MARCOS Commando Wiki, which provides additional insights into their history, operations, and legacy in the world of special forces. Additionally, there are plenty of wallpaper MARCOS Commando images and MARCOS commando photos available for those who admire their valor and dedication.

FAQ’s on Macros Commando

Is Marcos Commando powerful?

Yes, MARCOS Commandos are powerful. They are train as a special forces unit in the Indian Navy known for their bravery and combat skills. Trained in various environments, they excel in operations on land and at sea. Established in 1987, MARCOS is recognized globally for its professionalism and expertise in countering threats and terrorism.

How to join Marcos Commandos?

To join the MARCOS Commandos (Marine) in the Indian Navy, follow these steps: Eligibility: Open to male volunteers of the Indian Navy. Age Limit: Indian Navy officers should be under 20 years. Recruitment: Typically in the early 20s, recruits can join through NDA, CDS, SSC, or direct recruitment for lower posts. Training: Extensive 2 to 3 years of demanding training, mainly at Indian Navy and Army agencies. Training also includes collaboration with the army’s paramilitary force, Selection Process: Competitive process involving physical and mental tests, along with an interview. Successful candidates proceed to the next stage of training.

What is the full form of Marcos commando?

MARCOS means Marine Commandos. They are a special group in the Indian Navy, known for being really good at fighting and doing secret missions. They started in 1987 and are like superheroes in the water and on land. People think they're as cool as the best forces in the U.S. and Britain. MARCOS have done important missions, and there are about two thousand of them. They're famous and respected in India and around the world.

Is MARCOS better than Para SF?

Comparing MARCOS (Marine Commandos) and Para SF (Special Forces) is like comparing apples and oranges. Both are elite special forces units in the Indian military, each with its own unique skills and capabilities. MARCOS specialize in amphibious warfare, meaning they are experts in operations on land and in the water. They are part of the Indian Navy and are known for their maritime and counter-terrorism skills.

What is the salary of MARCOS in Indian Navy?

A Captain in the Indian Navy's Marine Commandos (MARCOS) earns an annual salary ranging from ₹0.8 Lakhs to ₹1.1 Lakhs. The salary is determined by the individual's rank and experience. Additional allowances like Ships Diver allowance, MARCOS allowance, Hard Area allowance, and Highly Active Field Area allowance may contribute to the overall salary, varying based on deployment and duties. On average, a Marine Commando's yearly salary is around ₹8.4 Lakhs, subject to experience and other considerations.