About this Unit
22 MAS (22º Gruppo Mezzi d’Assalto) was an elite unit of the Italian Royal Navy (Regia Marina) during World War II, specializing in naval special operations. Formed from the earlier Decima Flottiglia MAS, it became renowned for pioneering the use of manned torpedoes (SLC "Maiale") and explosive motorboats in attacks against Allied shipping. The unit achieved notable successes, such as the December 1941 raid on Alexandria harbor, crippling two British battleships. After the 1943 Armistice, 22 MAS members split between the Allies and the Italian Social Republic, continuing operations until the end of the war.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the British SAS: 22 MAS, also known as Grup Gerak Khas (GGK), was established in 1965, modeled after the British Special Air Service (SAS), with initial training provided by British instructors.
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Meaning of MAS: "MAS" stands for "Malaysian Special Service" (Malaysian: "Masa Aman Sedia"), indicating its primary role as an elite special forces regiment in the Malaysian Army.
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Counter-Insurgency Operations: The unit played a key role during the Second Malayan Emergency (1968–1989), undertaking deep reconnaissance and direct action missions against communist insurgents in the jungles of Malaysia.
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Operation Dawn (Ops Subuh): In 1975, 22 MAS participated in the rescue of hostages from the AIA building in Kuala Lumpur, one of Malaysia’s earliest high-profile counter-terror hostage rescue operations.
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International Deployments: GGK operatives have served in UN peacekeeping missions, including in Bosnia and Herzegovina (1993–1998), showcasing their professionalism on the global stage.
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Extreme Selection Process: To join 22 MAS, candidates must pass the grueling “Endurance March,” a 160 km march carrying full gear through jungle terrain, as part of their selection course.
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Specialized Training: The unit is trained for a variety of roles, including amphibious warfare, HALO/HAHO parachuting, sabotage, counter-terrorism, and long-range reconnaissance.
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Motto and Symbol: The unit’s motto is “Cepat dan Cergas” (“Fast and Agile”), and its insignia features a commando dagger with wings, symbolizing airborne and special operations capability.
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Joint Training: 22 MAS regularly conducts joint exercises with elite units such as the US Navy SEALs, British SAS, and Australian SASR, enhancing interoperability and tactics.
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Recognition and Awards: Members of 22 MAS have received numerous gallantry awards, including the Panglima Gagah Berani (PGB), Malaysia’s second highest award for bravery, honoring their acts of heroism in combat.
