About this Unit
The 15th MAS (Mezzi d’Assalto), also known as the Decima MAS or Xª MAS, was an elite Italian naval commando unit formed during World War II. Established in 1939, the unit specialized in unconventional warfare, utilizing human torpedoes ("maiali"), explosive motorboats, and combat swimmers to infiltrate and attack Allied ships and installations, particularly in the Mediterranean. The 15 MAS gained international notoriety for its daring raids, such as the successful attack on British warships in Alexandria harbor in December 1941. After the 1943 Italian Armistice, the unit split, with some members joining the Allies and others continuing operations under the Italian Social Republic. The legacy of 15 MAS greatly influenced the development of modern naval special forces worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 15th MAS (Mezzi d'Assalto) was an elite Italian naval commando unit, officially known as the Decima Flottiglia MAS (10th Assault Vehicle Flotilla), which later reorganized as the 15th MAS after World War II.
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Frogmen Pioneers: The unit was among the first in the world to develop and use combat frogmen, who specialized in underwater sabotage, demolition, and covert operations.
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“Maiali” Operations: They famously used human torpedoes called “SLC” or “Maiali” (“Pigs”), to infiltrate enemy harbors and plant explosives on ships—most notably in the successful raid on Alexandria in December 1941.
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Postwar Transformation: After WWII, the 10th MAS was dissolved, but its legacy continued in the 15th MAS, which was established as part of the Italian Navy’s Comando Subacquei ed Incursori (COMSUBIN), focusing on special operations.
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Cold War Role: During the Cold War, the 15th MAS played a vital role in NATO missions, specializing in counter-terrorism, underwater demolition, and maritime reconnaissance.
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Rescue Missions: The unit participated in several high-profile search and rescue operations, including the recovery of sunken vessels and aircraft in the Mediterranean.
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Training with Allies: 15th MAS has trained with other elite units, such as the US Navy SEALs and the British Special Boat Service (SBS), sharing techniques and tactics for maritime special operations.
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Symbolic Insignia: The unit’s insignia features a skull with a rose, symbolizing the paradox of death and beauty, and a dagger—emphasizing stealth and lethality.
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Inspiration for Others: Their success and innovation inspired the formation and tactics of other naval special forces around the world, including the British SBS and the Israeli Shayetet 13.
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Modern Legacy: Today, the traditions and expertise of the 15th MAS live on within COMSUBIN, which remains one of the world’s most respected maritime special operations units.
