Norwegian MJK

Marinejegerkommandoen is the naval special warfare component of the Norwegian Special Operation’s Forces alongside with the Forsvarets Spesialkommando, created in 1953. The unit’s base is located in Ramsund Naval Base, in the northern region of the country and operators are stationed on the Haakonsvern naval base in the southwestern region. The operators are specialized in full spectrum of ‘’Frogman’’ operations, such as swampland warfare, arctic warfare, special reconnaissance, protection of ships, counter-terrorism missions, hostage rescue and direct actions.

To become fully qualified MJK member, the recruits undergo at least two years of training, with specialized courses, such as combat medic training, sniping and forward air control training. One of the training that shows how it is challenging both mentally and physically is the training where each candidate must carry 60kg bags, while being hunted by an ‘’enemy forces’’ including military and law enforcement K-9 units. At any point the trainees get captured, they must endure 36 hours of tactical questioning.

Under the command of Ove Lund, in 1953 the Norwegian Navy created a frogman unit, which is the origin of the MJK. Their primary mission was re-con and sabotage against the enemy targets in both under and above the water. Later the missions became more comprehensive and various frogman specialties were created. Soon this led the unit split into a clearance diver team and two combat swimmer teams. Later the two combat swimmer teams merged into one and changed its name to Marinejegerkommandoen, based in Bergen with training facilities in Ramsund. In 2013 the unit was reorganized into a separate branch of the Norwegian Armed Forces.

Regarding the domestic security, the Marinejegerkommandoen is always on national counter-terrorism standby to support Norwegian Police if necessary and is also prolonged standby for international missions.

Regarding the international operations, the Marinejegerkommandoen has engaged in numerous international operations. In 2002 the unit (Task Force K-Bar) led operations in Afghanistan, as well as in 2003, 2005-2006. They also were involved in training of the Afghan National Police Crisis Response Unit in 2008-2009. The MJK’s involvements in Afghanistan has largely been kept confidential and little are known, such as direct actions, Forward Air Control, Special Surveillance and Reconnaissance against the Taliban and Al-Qaeda. After the Afghanistan, the unit conducted anti-piracy operations in the coast of Somalia, the Operation Atalanta and Operation Ocean Shield. In 2013, the medical specialists from MJK were sent to Sicily in Amenas Hostage Crisis connected from Algeria.

For its participation in Operation Enduring Freedom, the MJK earned Navy Presidential Unit Citation in 2005, which is the highest unit award given by the U.S to its allied units and was awarded to all members of Task Force K-Bar.

‘’Prepare for tomorrows threats, today’’