Who Are the MARCOS?

The MARCOS (Marine Commandos) are the special operations unit of the Indian Navy, among the most feared and respected special forces in the world. Known as the “Dadhiwala Fauj” (bearded force) by militants, MARCOS operate on land, air, and sea — trained for amphibious warfare, counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and covert reconnaissance.

Their motto, “The Few, The Fearless,” reflects the unmatched courage, endurance, and discipline required to serve as a MARCOS commando.

Role and Operations

MARCOS are the first responders for India’s naval special missions. Their operations include:

• Maritime Counter-Terrorism: Securing offshore assets, ports, and ships from terror threats.

• Direct Action Missions: Underwater sabotage, precision strikes, and enemy vessel neutralization.

• Hostage Rescue: Conducted in coastal or offshore environments.

• Special Reconnaissance: Gathering intelligence behind enemy lines.

• Joint Operations: MARCOS often operate alongside the Para SF and Garud Commandos for joint missions.

Their versatility allows them to function from sea to land — making MARCOS one of the most skilled commando forces in Asia.

MARCOS Selection Process

Becoming a MARCOS commando is one of the toughest challenges in the Indian Armed Forces. The selection process has a drop-out rate of over 80–85%, ensuring only the most resilient make it through.

Step-by-step selection process:

1. Initial Screening:
   Candidates are selected from among serving Indian Navy personnel. Basic medical and physical fitness are tested.

2. Pre-Selection (3 Days):
   A short but grueling phase designed to push candidates beyond limits. It includes obstacle runs, long swims, and mental endurance tests.

3. Hell Week:
   Inspired by the U.S. Navy SEALs, this phase involves continuous physical activity for 96+ hours with minimal rest. Only a handful survive.

4. Dive and Combat Training:
   Survivors proceed to advanced combat diving, underwater demolition, and survival skills.

5. Advanced Commando Course:
   Includes parachute jumps, mountain warfare, jungle survival, and counter-insurgency operations.

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MARCOS Training: Forging the Ultimate Warrior

Training continues for nearly 2–3 years, producing commandos who can operate anywhere — from deep sea to dense jungles.

Key aspects of MARCOS training:

• Combat Diving: Deep-sea diving, underwater demolition, and infiltration.

• Weapons Mastery: Handling Indian and foreign small arms with precision.

• Close-Quarter Battle (CQB): Room-clearing, hostage rescue, and anti-piracy drills.

• Endurance Conditioning: Long runs with heavy loads, cold-water swims, and night marches.

• Specialized Foreign Training: Selected MARCOS train with US Navy SEALs, British SBS, and other elite forces.

By the end of training, a MARCOS commando can operate in any terrain, any weather, at any time.

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MARCOS Fitness Standards

To qualify even for pre-selection, aspirants must maintain peak physical and mental fitness.
Typical MARCOS benchmarks include:

• 1.6 km run under 6 minutes

• 50 push-ups and 50 sit-ups within 2 minutes each

• 20 pull-ups

• 14 km endurance march with 25 kg load

• 25 m underwater swim and 5 km sea swim

Equally important is mental toughness — the ability to stay calm under exhaustion, pain, and stress.

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How to Become a MARCOS Commando

To join MARCOS, candidates must first enlist in the Indian Navy as a sailor or officer. After basic service, volunteers may apply for MARCOS selection.

Eligibility:

• Indian citizen (male)

• Physically and medically fit

• Serving Navy personnel or trainee officer

• Strong swimming and endurance skills

For aspirants dreaming to become MARCOS in the future, the journey starts with NDA, CDS, or Navy recruitment exams — and top-level physical preparation.

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Prepare for MARCOS with Doon Defence Academy

If you aim to serve the nation as a MARCOS commando, your preparation starts today.
At Doon Defence Academy (DDA), we provide:

• Expert guidance for NDA and Indian Navy exams

• Physical training to meet MARCOS fitness standards

• Motivation and mentoring from ex-defence officers

Join DDA — where future warriors are made.