Special Boarding Unit
The Special Boarding Unit (特別警備隊, Tokubetsukeibitai) is a special forces unit established by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force on March 27, 2001, in response to a spy ship incursion that had taken place on the Noto Peninsula in 1999. The unit was created to perform similar roles to those undertaken by American Navy SEALs and the British SBS. Its structure is based on that of the SBS. It is based in Etajima, Hiroshima.
| Special Boarding Unit | |
|---|---|
| 特別警備隊 | |
| Active | March 27, 2001 – present |
| Country | Japan |
| Branch | Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force |
| Type | Special forces |
| Role | Special operations VBSS |
| Size | Classified, estimated at 90 operators in 2007 |
| Part of | Self Defense Fleet |
| Garrison/HQ | Etajima, Hiroshima |
| Nickname(s) | SBU Tokketai (In Japanese) |
| Engagements | Battle of Amami-Ōshima (Did not intervene) Counter-piracy operations in Somalia |
| Commanders | |
| Current commander | Kazuhiro Kuroki |
| Notable commanders | Toru Yamaguchi |
| Insignia | |
| Green SBU Patch Blue SBU Patch | |
The unit's roles involve maritime anti-terrorist duties, including operations where arms are known to be involved. However, its duties and responsibilities overlap with those of the Special Security Team, the Japan Coast Guard's counter-terrorist unit. However, the SST has the right to detain anyone lawfully.
Information on SBU personnel, training and weapons is classified and not available. Its operators wear balaclavas to protect their identities when operating where they can be seen. Due to the nature of their duties and responsibilities, an amendment had been passed to raise their salaries.