The Special Task Unit (STU) is a police tactical unit of the Taiwan Coast Guard Administration (CGA) that specialized in air-sea rescue, apprehension of armed and dangerous criminals, law enforcement for maritime security, maritime counterterrorism and hostage rescue crisis management, tactical special operations, providing security at coast guard bases that are at risk of attack or terrorism, and VBSS operations.
History
Development of the STU began in 2000 and the unit was officially stood up in 2005 to address concerns about a rise in international terrorism.
During the 36th annual Han Kuang exercises in 2020, the STU participated alongside special forces and special operations forces units from other branches in anti-decapitation drills.
Training
Certifications in amphibious operation tactics, close-quarters battle in tight spaces on various types of boats and ships, coastal patrolling, combat and patrolling in urban areas, counterterrorism and hostage rescue crisis management, defusing and disposal of bombs, fast tactical shooting, hand-to-hand combat, lifeguarding, marksmanship, naval boarding, NBCR on operations in contaminated environments, reconnaissance to intelligence gathering, required knowledge of maritime law, swim instructing, SERE, tactical SCUBA diving, tactical emergency medical, and other related SWAT team tactics are required before even qualifying as a candidate. Candidates must undergo three months training with the Republic of China Marine Corps (ROCMC) Amphibious Reconnaissance and Patrol Unit (ARP) followed by two months training with the Republic of China Military Police Special Services Company (MPSSC).
Training and physical fitness standards are extreme, with a member's daily regimen including 100 pushups in under one minute. All members are proficient in at least two martial arts.
Organization In 2010, the STU had 52 members distributed across five bases, all of whom were career security forces professionals.
Equipment
Individual weapons Pistol Model Origin NotesT75 PistolIn reserveGLOCK 17Gen 3 and Gen 5GLOCK 34Purchased 1 branch in 2017
Submachine Gun Model Origin NotesHK MP5A5Currently used as a training gun
Shotgun Model Origin NotesBenelli M4 Super 90-
Assault Rifle Model Origin NotesT65K2In reserveColt M4Currently used as a training rifleHK416Only one sample firearm was procured, and the M4 was ultimately selected.DD MK 18-DD5 V37.62 x 51mmSIG MCX Rattler LT .300 BLK
Light Machine Gun Model Origin NotesT75 SAW-
Sniper Rifle Model Origin NotesHK PSG1-
Grenade Launcher Model Origin Notes40mm Grenade LauncherUnknownUnidentified
Note: Weapon list compiled from official public disclosure.
References