Casual Interview With An Airborne Special Forces Operator
SSG, Special Service Group, Pakistan Army, fitness, Airborne Special Forces Operator,
training, mental toughness, supplements, mission objectives,
The Special Service Group (reporting name: SSG[1][2]) are the special forces of the Pakistan Army. They are also known by their nickname of “Maroon Berets” due to their headgear.[3]
The SSG is responsible to deploy and execute five doctrinal missions: foreign internal defence, reconnaissance, direct action, counter-terrorism operations, and unconventional warfare.[1]
Other operational roles and responsibilities attributed to the SSG include: search and rescue, counter-proliferation, search and destroy, hostage rescue, information operations, peacekeeping missions, psychological operations, security assistance, and HVT manhunts.[4]
Introduction: In this casual interview, we delve into the experiences and perspective of an Airborne Special Forces operator from the SSG, Pakistan Army. From their decision to join the elite unit to the level of fitness required, we explore the mindset and challenges faced by these courageous individuals.
Q1: When did you decide you wanted to join the SSG? Were you initially as fit as they wanted?
A: “I decided to join the SSG after my first year of army service, driven by a thirst for adventure that couldn’t be fulfilled in regular army life. Initially, I wasn’t as fit, but I worked tirelessly to meet the SSG’s rigorous standards.”
Q2: What is your field of speciality?
A: “I specialize in Airborne operations and Free-fall.”
Q3: One word to describe what the Basic Commando Course means to you?
A: “Determination.”
Q4: Would you agree if I say you went through the same basic training as a US Green Beret or a British SAS?
A: “No, our training is far more rigorous than that of the SAS or Green Berets. Our physical standards are higher, and we push ourselves to the limit during training to meet those standards. The difference lies in the technology and equipment used, where they may have an advantage.”
Q5: What is the level of fitness required to pass the Basic Commando Course?
A: “The course demands individuals who are fitter than the average. The SSG not only selects highly fit individuals but also further enhances their fitness and provides specialized training.”
Q6: Have you had the grenade?
A: “Absolutely! The grenade is a staple during our training. No one gets through the course without consuming them.”
Q7: Special Forces are famous for their long marches (patrolling). What is the longest distance you’ve covered on foot and at what time?
A: “We completed a 300km route march from Mangla to Abbottabad in approximately 72 hours.”
Q8: Do you believe that your physical training makes you more challenging, not just physically but mentally as well? How?
A: “Yes. Our training instils an unwavering determination to overcome any obstacle. We learn to push beyond our limits and develop mental fortitude through our physical training.”
Q9: Do you use supplements beyond the regular gym setting/routine?
A: “Yes, we do use supplements, but primarily within the regular gym routine.”
Q10: Explain what it means to be fit in your line of work.
A: “Fitness is the cornerstone of our operations in the SSG. Being unfit not only endangers oneself but also poses a risk to the team. In our line of work, fitness is a matter of life and death.”
Q11: Is there a difference between regular military fitness and Special Forces fitness?
A: “Yes, there is a notable difference. Regular military fitness focuses on routine tasks, while Special Forces undergo training for special operations behind enemy lines. The level of fitness required in the SSG is significantly higher.”
Q12: Do you go to the gym, and what type of workout do you do every day, both in and out of the gym? A: “Yes, I go to the gym almost daily for weight training, focusing on major muscle groups. Outside the gym, we have our own fitness routine that emphasizes strength.
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