Everything To Know About The Special Boat Service (SBS)

WHO ARE THE SBS?
A Thread:

The special boat service (SBS) is a special operation unit of the Nigerian Navy. It was modelled after the royal Navy special boat service. It is considered to be one of the most elite naval special forces units in Africa. It was established in 2006.

The establishment of the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service (SBS) was motivated by the imperative to address the persistent attacks on Nigeria's oil facilities by militant groups and criminal elements in the Niger Delta.

It is predominantly focused on, but not restricted to; littoral and riverine operations, including reconnaissance and surveillance; covert beach reconnaissance in advance of an amphibious assault; recovery or protection of ships and oil installations subject to hostile state or non-state action; maritime counter-terrorism; and offensive action.

The Basic Operating Course (BOC) is the foundational training program that shapes individuals into skilled SBS operatives, known for their elite capabilities. The course comprises three distinct phases, each focusing on crucial aspects of their operational readiness Operatives undergo training in range classification, handling of explosive and demolition weapons, map reading, and intelligence techniques. Upon successful completion of the BOC, operatives are bestowed with the special forces honour badge, serving as a symbol of their exceptional training and distinguishing them as elite members within the Naval personnel.

On 21 April 2020, ten SBS commandos boarded the Tommi Ritscher, a container ship captured by pirates off the shore of Benin. Benin authorities gave the SBS commandos a letter of commendation.

On 12 July 2021, 25 officers of the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service completed a five-week Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET) alongside a team of U.S. Army Special Forces.

They also had a joint training exercise with the 42 commando royal marines.