Real Numbers in Iran

 April 12, 2006: On paper, Iran has some 100,000 or so troops rated as "special operations forces," including elements of the regular armed forces and the Revolutionary Guard Corps. But apparently only the 5,500 strong all-volunteer 23rd Special Forces Division is actually capable of commando-style operations. Most of the rest of the formations designated as "special forces" - including army, navy, and Revolutionary Guard - are actually only well trained light infantry. These are somewhat comparable to American Rangers.