Naval Special Warfare Group
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Special Warfare Group (SWAG) is an elite unit of the Philippine Navy trained in special operations, sabotage, psychological and unconventional warfare. It specializes in sea, air and land (SEAL) operations ranging from reconnaissance, close combat, demolition, intelligence and underwater operations in support to the overall naval operations. The SWAG gained prominence in a number of anti-terrorist strike operations, most notably against the Abu Sayyaf Group.
The SWAG is known for its highly physically demanding training program for prospective members, which usually involves a weeklong sleep deprivation exercise and a cross provincial swim from Manila to Cavite.
[edit] Overview
The Naval Special Warfare Group (NAVSOG: Naval Special Operations Group) or Special Warfare Group (SWAG) is the Fleet's elite forces for unconventional warfare and special operations of the Philippines' Navy. It specialises in sea, air and land (SEAL) operations ranging from reconnaissance, close combat, demolition, intelligence and underwater operations in support to the overall naval operations.
There are similarities between the Philippine Navy Special Warfare Group and the US Navy Special Warfare Command. They were taught, prepared and operate in the same manner. The PN SEALS (actually called SWAGs) also wear a trident similar to their US Navy counterparts. On the other hand, the local counterpart of the Counter-Terrorism specialists DEVGRU (formally called Naval Special Warfare Development Group) in the country is the Special Reaction Group (SRG) which is operating directly under Naval Intelligence.
