defense authorities of US pointed out that Washington had recovered warheads from Iranianmade missiles during a boarding mission near the Somaliaon January 11, disrupting U.S. supplies Houthis At the Yemen. The mission was carried out by the US Navy's elite unit, the SEALs, who were also responsible for the death of the leader and founder of AlQaeda. Osama Bin Ladenin 2011.
The elite unit of the US Navy is trained to take part in attacks on enemy targets or conduct reconnaissance missions to report terrorist activities. The group can participate in activities on water, land or air, carries out secret missions and is subject to a strict selection process.
Navy Seals conducted an operation this month to stop the Houthis from accessing Iranian weapons. Photo: US Navy/AP
Learn more about the SEALs
The SEALs are the elite unit of the US Navy and are crucial in America's fight against terrorism. The group takes part in secret missions around the world and does not like to be in the spotlight, but rose to prominence through famous missions, such as the task of killing the leader of AlQaeda and architect of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Osama Bin Ladenin 2011.
The unit was also known for rescuing Captain Richard Phillips of the Maersk Alabama, a container ship hijacked by pirates in Somalia in 2009.
The Navy SEALs' origins date back to maritime commando units organized during World War II. However, the group was not officially founded until 1962, in the middle of the Vietnam War. SEALs participate in operations related to counterterrorism, special reconnaissance, and direct action (e.g., hostage rescue).
The unit has a contingent of around 2,500 people.
ThenPresident of the United States Barack Obama approved the mission that killed terrorist Osama bin Laden in Pakistan. Photo: Casa Branca / AP
The process of becoming an elite unit of the U.S. Navy is known to be rigorous. According to the US Navy, only one in five candidates manages to be admitted. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and be between 18 and 28 years old. Candidates must also have completed high school and undergo an ophthalmological examination.
During training, potential members of the elite unit undergo physical conditioning, diving training and land conflict training. Postulants are also exposed to extreme conditions such as: B. physical exertion in icecold water and activities that involve sleep deprivation.
The most wellknown training is called “Hell Week” and is considered by authorities to be a crucial phase in deciding whether or not to become a Seal. According to the U.S. Navy, candidates must undergo five days of intense endurance testing conducted to “eliminate the weak and disengaged.” This week, 20 hours of physical tests will be conducted and candidates will only be allowed four hours of sleep.
In February 2022, 24yearold Kyle Mullen died after completing “intern week” training. Another candidate who trained with Mullen had to be hospitalized.
SEALs have participated in important missions throughout American history. The death of Osama bin Laden, who was hiding in Pakistan in 2011, is the most highprofile in recent years.
The elite unit also took part in the socalled Battle of Mogadishu in 1993 between USbacked forces and militias in Somalia, amid the civil war in the African country. The 2002 film “Black Falcon in Peril” depicts the elite unit’s work during the conflict.
The rescue of American Captain Richard Phillips, who was kidnapped by pirates in Somalia in 2009, was also carried out by SEALs and depicted in the 2013 film “Captain Phillips”.