Special Boat Squadron

By Winston Pugh

The origins of the SBS can be traced back to the early 1950s, when British military leaders recognized the potential for a specialized unit capable of executing unconventional warfare. This period, characterized by the Cold War's rising tensions, saw numerous conflicts erupt in various parts of the world, from the Korean Peninsula to the Middle East. The British government sought to establish a formidable maritime force that could operate in conjunction with the Royal Navy while maintaining the element of surprise and discretion.

The formation of the SBS was officially sanctioned in 1940 under the auspices of the British Army's Special Operations Executive (SOE). The initial group, known as the Special Boat Section, was tasked with a variety of missions that included reconnaissance, sabotage, and direct action against enemy forces. The unit's formation was not without its challenges; early members had to adapt to a range of operational environments, from coastal waters to riverine and urban settings. This adaptability would become a hallmark of the SBS, setting it apart from more conventional military units.

One of the first significant missions undertaken by the Special Boat Section occurred during Operation Frankton in December 1942. A daring raid on the German-held port of Bordeaux, this operation sought to disrupt enemy shipping by deploying a team of commandos via canoes. The audacity of the mission was matched only by its complexity; the commandos had to navigate treacherous waters, evade enemy patrols, and execute their mission with precision. Though the operation faced severe challenges, including harsh weather and vigilant guards, the resilience and ingenuity of the SBS operatives led to the successful destruction of several enemy vessels, demonstrating the potential effectiveness of specialized maritime units.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0DSZLT71K
• ISBN13: 9798306864266
• Release Date: January 2025
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 154 Pages
• Weight: 0.47 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 6.0" x 9.0"