Garud Commando Force

Garud Commando Force
Garud Winged Badge
Founded6 February 2004 (2004-02-06) – present (22 years, 1 month)
Country India
Branch Indian Air Force
TypeSpecial Forces
Size1,080-1,500 (est.) (Classified)
HeadquartersGarud Regimental Training Centre,
Hindon Air Force Station, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh
PatronGaruda
MottosPṛāhaar Se Surākshā (Hindi)
transl. "Defence by Offence"
EngagementsMONUC (Congo)
2016 Pathankot attack
Insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir
Decorations1 Ashoka Chakra
8 Shaurya Chakra
Insignia
Special Forces shoulder tab
Sleeve patch

The Garud Commando Force is the special forces unit of the Indian Air Force. It was formed on 6 February 2004. The unit derives its name from Garuda, a Hindu deity.

Garud forces are tasked with protecting critical Air Force bases and installations, search and rescue, and providing relief during disasters or calamities. In 2004, Garuds were deployed in the Congo as part of the UN peace keeping operations.