One of the most formidable and secretive special forces in the world.
By Hezy Laing
Shayetet 13, Israel’s elite naval commando unit, stands as one of the most formidable and secretive special forces in the world.
Often compared to the U.S. Navy SEALs, Shayetet 13 has carved out a reputation for operating in the shadows, executing high-risk missions that demand precision, endurance, and absolute secrecy.
Established in 1949, the unit specializes in underwater demolition, maritime counterterrorism, covert beach landings, hostage rescue, and intelligence gathering.
Its training regimen is notoriously grueling, involving diving, parachuting, land warfare, and survival exercises.
Only a small fraction of candidates make it through, and those who do become part of a force that is as cerebral as it is lethal.
In recent years, Shayetet 13 has remained at the forefront of Israel’s defense strategy.
On October 7, 2023, Hamas attempted a bold infiltration at Zikim beach using its own naval commandos.
The IDF, leveraging air, sea, and ground forces, intercepted and neutralized the attackers.
Shayetet 13 played a critical role in this operation, demonstrating its readiness and tactical superiority.
To counter such threats, Israel employs advanced technologies like DSIT’s AquaShield Diver Detection Sonar, which helps monitor and intercept underwater incursions before they reach Israeli shores.
Its missions include sabotage operations, intelligence gathering, and coordinated raids—often in collaboration with other elite Israeli units such as Mossad and Unit 8200.
These frogmen are not merely warriors; they are strategic assets whose actions ripple across diplomatic and military spheres.
The legacy of Shayetet 13 is built on decades of daring missions.
One of its most iconic operations was the 1973 Spring of Youth raid in Beirut, where commandos infiltrated the city by sea and, alongside Sayeret Matkal and Mossad, eliminated high-ranking PLO leaders responsible for attacks on Israeli civilians.
This mission was a direct response to the Munich Olympics massacre and showcased Israel’s global reach and resolve.
In 2001, Shayetet 13 intercepted the Santorini, a cargo ship smuggling weapons from Hezbollah to Palestinian militants.
The operation, conducted in international waters, uncovered a hidden arsenal and disrupted a major arms supply route.
Then in 2014, the unit executed Operation Full Disclosure, boarding the Klos-C in the Red Sea and uncovering Iranian-supplied M-302 rockets concealed beneath bags of cement.
This mission not only thwarted a significant threat but also exposed Iran’s covert support for militant groups.
From urban raids to maritime interceptions, Shayetet 13 remains a cornerstone of Israel’s counter-terrorism and strategic defense.
Its legacy is one of silent precision, relentless training, and unwavering commitment to national security.
