Mexico’s Navy Special Forces mark 25 years after capturing major drug lords

Mexico’s Navy is marking 25 years of its elite Special Forces, known as the “Quachics,” a unit credited with major operations including the capture of drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero in 2022.

The Navy said the group has steadily expanded and consolidated its operational capabilities. It described the unit as a central pillar of the service, operating under the motto “Strength, Spirit and Wisdom” and distinguished by its capacity, discipline and professionalism.

The Quachics form part of the Naval Special Operations Unit, or UNOPES, which the Navy created in 2014. The force conducts complex operations considered strategically important and works with the three levels of government to respond rapidly to threats to national security across land, air and sea environments.

“

Strength, Spirit and Wisdom

The Navy said UNOPES consists of several elite components: Special Forces, Amphibious Commandos and the Marine Infantry Parachute Rifle Battalion. The Amphibious Commandos are trained for rapid deployment, reconnaissance and infiltration by land, air and sea. The parachute battalion provides an airborne capability designed to move Marine infantry quickly into difficult-to-reach areas.

The Navy currently has 29,843 Marine Infantry personnel, including 4,123 women. It said the members of UNOPES are defined by high standards of conduct, intellectual sharpness and loyalty to the country.

“

This is a specialized force for conducting airborne special operations, designed to project Marine infantry quickly and decisively into difficult-to-reach areas.