Takavar

Takavaran is the term used for a type of Iranian special forces troops. To be eligible for Takavar selection, a candidate must have at least two years regular service in the Iranian Armed Forces. Personnel must be male and if an individual is selected for Takavar, he will then go through an intense 20 month Operator Training Course.

The takavaran (plural of takavar) fall under the direct command of the regular Iranian Army (Artesh). They are directly comparable to the U.S. Army Special Forces of the United States, United States Marine Corps, and Special Boat Service of United Kingdom, Royal Marine Commandos through a near identical training and selection program. The Most Famous Units Are:

• 1-Lashgare 78 Takavar Zolfaghar {78 Commando}.
• 2-Tip 55 Havabord (Shiraz) {55 Airborne}.
• 3-Lashgare 23 Special Forces {23 Special Force}.
• 4-Tip 45 Takavar (Andimeshk Ahvaz) {45 Commando}.
• 5-Gorouh 99 Padafand Havaie (Tehran) {99 Air Assault}.
• 6-Gorouhan Takavar Pasdar Setad Gharargah (Mini City Tehran) {Guard Unit, Central Command}.

Equipment

Takavaran are outfitted with German-designed smallarms. Rifles such as the HK G3 (regular and short barreled), HK-91, and HK-53 have been used. In some instances AK-47's, AK-74's, and AK-103 assault rifles have also been used. The MP-5 submachine gun is sometimes used for CQB missions.