The Armed Forces of Guatemala’s special forces unit is called the Kaibiles and specializes in tactics for jungle warfare and counter-rebellion. The troops receive maroon berets decorated with a patch embroidered with a blazing sword to distinguish them from all the other units. The mission of the training course for this unit is to produce elite commando troops who can endure long and arduous physical activity and metal tests. The training lasts eight weeks and is open twice a year to volunteers. 1250 soldiers have joined the Kaibiles, with 85% joining directly from the Guatemalan Army and others volunteering from the U.S., China, Spain, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, and Peru.
