The Special Frontier Force, or SFF, is a very secretive Indian military group. The Special Frontier Force’s battalions are collectively known as the Vikas battalions. The SFF was formed after the 1962 war between India and China. It was created to be a special task force to do dangerous missions. The SFF had Tibetan refugees who could survive and fight in the mountains where China is located. At first, the SFF did spy and sabotage tasks behind enemy lines against China. Over the years, the SFF started doing other top-secret missions along India’s borders. It now uses unconventional fighting methods for high-risk operations that normal military forces may not be able to do. Though not talked about openly, the hushed SFF plays an important role in India’s defense and security.
Special Frontier Force
Special Frontier Force (SFF) is an Indian special operations task force created in 1962 that is technically part of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), India’s external intelligence agency.
- It was raised after the 1962 Sino-Indian War to conduct covert operations behind Chinese lines in case of another war between the two countries.
- The force draws recruits from Tibetan refugees living in India and is trained to survive and operate in high-altitude mountain areas like Tibet.
- It played an important role in the 1971 India-Pakistan War by conducting covert operations in what is now Bangladesh.
- While technically under RAW, SFF operates under the direct supervision of India’s external intelligence organization. Its operations remain classified.
- It has also been deployed in counterinsurgency operations in India’s northeast and Jammu & Kashmir.
- The existence of the force was not even officially acknowledged by the Indian government until recently. It remains a shadowy outfit about which little is publicly known.
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The entities forming the Special Frontier Force are referred to as Vikas battalions.
Special Frontier Force – Vikas Battalion
The Vikas Battalions, also known as the Special Frontier Force (SFF), are a unique and highly trained paramilitary unit under the Cabinet Secretariat of India. Primarily composed of Tibetan refugees and Gurkhas, these elite soldiers play a crucial role in safeguarding national security through covert operations and specialized missions.
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About Special Frontier Force – SFF
Some key facts about Special Frontier Force are:
- It is a secretive Indian military group formed in 1962 after a war with China.
- The SFF has Tibetan soldiers who can fight in the mountains near China.
- India created it to do special missions behind enemy lines against China if there is another war.
- Not much is known about the SFF because India keeps it a secret.
- It is part of India’s intelligence agency R&AW but takes orders from the army.
- The SFF fought in the 1971 war against Pakistan in Bangladesh. It did raids and strikes.
- It now helps the Indian army fight rebels in Kashmir and Northeast India.
- The soldiers are specially trained to survive and fight in the Himalayan mountains and Tibet.
- India uses the SFF for top-secret and dangerous missions that regular soldiers don’t do.
- Very few people know exactly what the SFF does today or how many soldiers it has.
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History of Special Frontier Force
India started the SFF in 1962 after losing a border war to China. India wanted a secret group to do special missions behind enemy lines against China if there was another war. At first, the SFF had Tibetan refugees who had run away to India. They knew how to survive and fight in the mountains where China is. These Tibetan soldiers were trained secretly in the Himalayan mountains to be experts in mountain warfare. In the 1971 war between India and Pakistan, the SFF did secret raids and attacks in East Pakistan hills. They disrupted Pakistan’s army. Below are the following historical details related to the SFF:
Formation Post-1962 Indo-China War
The Special Frontier Force (SFF) was officially raised in the aftermath of the Indo-China war in 1962. The conflict highlighted the need for a specialized force capable of operating in the challenging terrains along the India-China border, particularly in the Himalayan region.
Strategic Requirement
The SFF was conceptualized to address the strategic importance of securing the borders in the mountainous areas, where conventional military operations faced significant challenges. Its primary focus was on mountain warfare and conducting covert operations in the difficult Himalayan terrain.
Creation Under Cabinet Secretariat
The force was created under the purview of the Cabinet Secretariat, emphasizing its specialized and sensitive nature. This organizational placement added a layer of secrecy to its operations.
Recruitment of Specialized Personnel
The formation of the SFF involved recruiting personnel with specific expertise in mountain warfare and special operations. These individuals underwent rigorous training to meet the force’s unique requirements.
Geopolitical Tensions
The historical context of the SFF’s formation is closely tied to the geopolitical tensions in the region during the 1960s. The force emerged as a response to the security challenges posed by the complex terrain along the India-China border.
Role in Border Security
Over the years, the SFF has played a crucial role in maintaining security along the India-China border, contributing to the nation’s defense capabilities in the sensitive Himalayan region. The force’s operations are characterized by a degree of secrecy due to its specialized mission.
Ongoing Relevance
The SFF continues to be relevant in the context of India’s national security, especially considering the ongoing border tensions and the need for a specialized force capable of operating in challenging terrains.
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Special Frontier Force Timeline
A Timeline of Covert Missions and Mountain Valor:
| 1962 |
Post-war Formation |
Following the Sino-Indian War, the need for a covert force arises. Prime Minister Nehru approves the creation of “Establishment 22,” composed primarily of Tibetan refugees and Gurkhas. |
| 1962-1971 |
Rigorous Training |
Recruits undergo a grueling six-month program in combat skills, survival techniques, intelligence gathering, and mountain warfare under Indian Army instructors. |
| 1971 |
Bangladesh Liberation War |
The SFF plays a crucial role in securing the Chittagong Hill Tracts, demonstrating their effectiveness in covert operations and earning recognition. |
| 1984 |
Operation Blue Star |
The SFF participates in the controversial operation to clear the Golden Temple in Amritsar, raising debates due to its sensitive nature. |
| 1984 |
Siachen Glacier Deployment |
The SFF secures the strategically important Siachen Glacier after Pakistan’s attempt to occupy it, marking their enduring presence in this harsh environment. |
| 1999 |
Kargil War |
The SFF’s expertise in mountain combat proves invaluable in recapturing Indian territory occupied by Pakistani infiltrators, earning them prestigious awards and national recognition. |
| 2002-2014 |
Counter-insurgency Operations |
The SFF actively participates in neutralizing threats in Jammu and Kashmir, utilizing their covert skills and knowledge of the terrain. |
| 2020-Present |
Border Tensions with China |
While details remain largely classified, the SFF is believed to play a significant role in defending the Line of Actual Control during the India-China border tensions. |
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Special Frontier Force – Latest News
Some latest news regarding Special Frontier Force are mentioned below:
- In 2020, the secret SFF was in the news when it captured important mountain heights near Ladakh during a border dispute with China. This was the first time the SFF came into the public eye.
- In 2021, it was revealed that the SFF fought alongside Indian soldiers against Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley clashes in 2020.
- India is reportedly raising new SFF battalions and training Tibetan recruits in modern warfare to better prepare for threats from China.
- In 2022, the SFF joined India’s Republic Day parade for the first time to honor their service to the country. But their identity was kept hidden.
- There are reports that the SFF has been deployed in Kashmir after changes to the law to help stop infiltration from enemies. But this is not officially confirmed.
- In 2020, India’s top leaders approved better weapons and systems for the super secret SFF. This signals India wants the SFF to take on more tasks.
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Role of SFF – Role In National Security
The Special Frontier Force (SFF) plays a important, yet largely unseen, role in safeguarding India’s national security. Their activities often remain shrouded in secrecy for operational security reasons, but their contributions can be broadly categorized into three key areas:
Border Surveillance and Defense:
- Mountainous Frontiers: The SFF’s unique composition and training make them ideally suited for patrolling and defending India’s mountainous borders, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.
- Covert Operations: Their expertise in stealth and unconventional warfare allows them to conduct covert reconnaissance and counter-infiltration missions behind enemy lines, gathering valuable intelligence and disrupting potential threats.
- Quick Reaction Force: The SFF serves as a highly trained and mobile quick reaction force, ready to be deployed at short notice to address any border emergencies or incursions.
Intelligence Gathering and Specialized Capabilities:
- Language Skills: Many SFF personnel possess fluency in Tibetan and other regional languages, enabling them to gather crucial intelligence from sources inaccessible to regular forces.
- Cultural Understanding: Their diverse cultural backgrounds help them blend in with local populations, providing unique insights into potential threats and fostering trust within border communities.
- Specialized Skills: The SFF members are trained in a wide range of specialized skills like high-altitude warfare, survival tactics, sabotage, and close-quarters combat, making them adaptable to various operational challenges.
Contributions to Counterterrorism:
- Hostage Rescue and Counter-Insurgency: The SFF’s expertise in unconventional warfare and hostage rescue makes them a vital asset in combating terrorism and internal security threats.
- Disruption of Terror Networks: Their covert operations and intelligence gathering capabilities help in disrupting terrorist networks and preventing attacks before they materialize.
- Training and Assistance: The SFF also plays a role in training other security forces in counterterrorism tactics and sharing their specialized knowledge for enhanced national preparedness.
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Special Frontier Force – Ranks
The Special Frontier Force (SFF) operates under a unique rank structure that differs from the Indian Army in some aspects. Here’s a breakdown of the ranks, with details available:
| Officer Ranks |
Inspector General (SFF) |
1 |
This is the highest rank in the SFF, held by an officer of Major General rank from the Indian Army. They report directly to the Prime Minister’s Office and oversee the entire force. |
| Colonel |
6 |
Each SFF battalion is commanded by a Colonel, typically seconded from the Indian Army. They are responsible for the overall leadership and operational planning of their respective battalions. |
| Lieutenant Colonel |
6-12 |
Lieutenant Colonels serve as deputy commanders and heads of major departments within the battalions. They are also often seconded from the Indian Army. |
| Major |
12-24 |
Majors typically command companies within the battalions and play a crucial role in training and leading SFF personnel. They can be either SFF officers or seconded from the Indian Army. |
| Captain |
24-48 |
Captains lead platoons within companies and are responsible for the direct supervision and training of SFF personnel. They can be either SFF officers or seconded from the Indian Army. |
| Lieutenant |
48-96 |
Lieutenants are the junior most commissioned officers in the SFF and lead small sections within platoons. They can be either SFF officers or directly commissioned into the SFF. |
| Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) Ranks |
Subedar Major |
1 |
The Subedar Major is the senior most JCO in the battalion and acts as the advisor to the Commanding Officer. They are responsible for maintaining discipline and morale among the troops.
|
| Subedar |
6-12 |
Subedars hold senior positions within companies and platoons, often leading sections or acting as platoon sergeants. They are experienced soldiers with extensive knowledge of SFF operations and training. |
| Jemadar |
12-24 |
Jemadars typically lead squads within sections and provide direct supervision to lower ranks. They play a vital role in training and motivating SFF personnel. |
| Other Ranks |
Havildar |
24-48 |
Havildars are senior non-commissioned officers (NCOs) with leadership responsibilities within squads. They assist Jemadars in training and supervising SFF personnel. |
| Naik |
48-96 |
Naik’s are junior NCOs who assist Havildars and lead small teams within squads. They are experienced soldiers with specialized skills in various areas. |
| Lance Naik |
96-192 |
Lance Naiks are the most senior enlisted personnel within a squad and act as team leaders. They are responsible for the well-being and performance of their assigned soldiers. |
| Sepoy |
480-768 |
Sepoys are the basic rank of enlisted personnel in the SFF. They undergo rigorous training and are deployed for various operational tasks. |
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Special Frontier Force – Operations
The Special Frontier Force (SFF) is a highly specialized and secretive unit of the Indian Army, primarily composed of Tibetan refugees and Gurkhas. Their operations often remain classified, but here’s a glimpse into some notable ones:
| 1971 |
SFF played a crucial role in securing the Chittagong Hill Tracts in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) during the Liberation War. They conducted deep penetration raids, disrupted communication lines, and prevented Pakistani troop escape. |
| 1984 |
SFF participated in the controversial operation to clear the Golden Temple in Amritsar from armed militants. Their involvement remains a subject of debate due to the sensitive nature of the operation. |
| 1984 |
SFF secured the strategically important Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield, after Pakistan attempted to occupy it. They continue to hold and patrol the treacherous terrain under extreme conditions. |
| 1999 |
SFF played a key role in recapturing Indian territory occupied by Pakistani infiltrators in the Kargil sector. Their expertise in high-altitude warfare and mountain combat proved invaluable. |
| 2002-2014 |
SFF actively participated in counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir against militant groups. Their covert skills and knowledge of the terrain were crucial in neutralizing threats. |
| 2020-2021 |
While details remain largely undisclosed, the SFF is believed to have played a significant role in defending Indian territory along the Line of Actual Control during the border tensions with China. |
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Special Frontier Force – Awards Received
Recognition and Awards received by the SFF:
Operation-Specific Awards:
| 1971 |
Cash prizes |
580 SFF Task Force members |
| 1984 onwards |
Mention-in-Despatches |
Numerous |
| 1999 |
Vir Chakras, Sena Medals |
Several |
| 2020 |
Mention-in-Despatches |
Tsering Norbu |
Individual Awards:
| Gallantry |
Highest military decoration |
Not awarded to any SFF member (as of January 2024) |
| Gallantry |
Third-highest military decoration |
Not awarded to any SFF member (as of January 2024) |
| Gallantry |
Second-highest military decoration |
Awarded on rare occasions |
| Gallantry |
Fourth-highest military decoration |
Awarded for exceptional valour |
| Gallantry |
Fifth-highest military decoration |
Awarded for exceptional gallantry |
| Distinguished Service |
For distinguished service during wartime |
Potentially awarded to SFF members, details not public |
| Distinguished Service |
For distinguished service during peacetime |
Potentially awarded to SFF members, details not public |
| Meritorious Service |
For exceptional service in non-operational roles |
Awarded to SFF members in various operations |
| Mention-in-Despatches |
For commendable service in operations |
Awarded to Tsering Norbu for Operation Snow Leopard and likely others |
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Important operations of SFF
- Operation Eagle (1971 war): Ensuring the security of the Chittagong Hills.
- Operation Bluestar (1984): Clearing the Golden Temple.
- Operation Meghdoot (1984): Securing the Siachen Glacier.
- Operation Vijay (1999, Kargil): Addressing the conflict in Kargil.”
Conclusion
In Conclusion, the Special Frontier Force (SFF) stands out as a part of India’s defense setup, operating under the Cabinet Secretariat. Its specialized tasks and covert activities highlight its crucial role in securing sensitive border areas. The air of secrecy around the SFF enhances its mystery, making it a fascinating aspect of India’s defense. The dedication, training, and sacrifices of its members play a vital role in protecting the country’s interests, particularly in regions where standard military operations might encounter difficulties. While details of SFF’s operations and structure are scarce, it is evident that it constitutes a crucial part of India’s strategic capabilities. recent developments indicate that SFF’s importance has only grown despite its classified status. The force provides the country with an elite and highly trained special ops group able to carry out the most dangerous and sensitive operations across India’s hostile borders. Even though the SFF functions away from the public eye, it plays a critical role in furthering India’s national security interests.
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Special Frontier Force – FAQs
Which Ministry Is SFF Under?
While classified and shrouded in secrecy, the SFF operates under the purview of the Cabinet Secretariat, specifically the Directorate General of Security.
Why Special Frontier Force is also known as Establishment 22?
The Special Frontier Force, alternatively recognized as ‘Establishment 22′ or simply ’22,’ earned its name from its inaugural Inspector General, Major General Sujan Singh Uban (Retd.) of the Indian Army. Major General Uban, a distinguished figure in the British Indian Army, previously served as the commander of the 22 Mountain Regiment during World War II. Renowned for his valor and recipient of the Military Cross, he led the 22nd Mountain Role of the Forces Regiment in Europe and commanded a Long-Range Desert Group Squadron (LRDS) in North Africa.
Is SFF A Paramilitary?
No, the SFF is not technically considered a paramilitary force. It falls under the broader category of Special Forces, distinct from paramilitary forces due to their specialized training, unconventional warfare capabilities, and direct reporting to higher national security authorities.
How Can I Join SFF In India?
Joining the SFF is exceptionally challenging and requires rigorous physical and mental aptitude tests, along with specialized language skills and psychological evaluations. The specific recruitment process remains classified, but generally involves contacting the Indian Army or relevant defense authorities.
When was the Special Frontier Force formed?
Establishment 22, also recognized as the Special Frontier Force, was established on November 14, 1962, which coincided with Nehru’s birthday. This date also marked the resumption of the war with China on the eastern front after a short period of calm.
What Is The Role Of SFF?
The SFF’s primary role is to conduct covert operations behind enemy lines and in unconventional warfare scenarios. They may also be involved in counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and intelligence gathering.
Does IAF Have Special Forces?
Yes, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has its own elite special forces unit called the Garuda Commando Force. They handle specialized operations and hostage rescue within the IAF’s domain.
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