U.E.I., Unidad Especial de Intervencion, is a special force unit from Spain specialized in urban terrorism, counterterrorism, hostage rescue, organized crime, and personal V.I.P. protection. The unit is part of the ATLAS European Network.

Motto: "Celeritas et Subtilitas Patrio"
Translation Speed and Precision for the Fatherland

Established in: "1978"

Only 2 to 3 % of the candidates will pass the selection course. At the time of selection, the applicant cannot be older than 33 years of age and must be part of the civil guard. There also have been training phases, which no candidate successfully passed.

Not only are they one of the most elite units in the world. They are also shrouded in immense secrecy. On purpose, not a lot of information can be found on the internet, or in books. Their operators also live in secrecy, to be more effective operators.

Pre-Selection U.E.I. Espagna

This test involves 7 different exercises, which have to be completed in the listed order. The candidates need to show that they fitter than the average Spaniard. This test is extremely difficult. All events are to be performed within a short time. All events are performed on one day. Furthermore, candidates will be tested in various other events, such as Diving. They have to dive 2 meters down, pick up an object, and come back up. Also, they have to hold their breath underwater for at least 40 seconds. Another test is a balance test. They have to walk over a plank 6 meters in distance, 2 meters high, but only 6 cm wide.

Selection U.E.I.

The selection phase, also called Curso de adaptación a la tácticas y técnicas de la UEI, lasts 6 months and starts on the first Monday of September of every year. Candidates will be tested to the breaking point and beyond. They will learn to become experts at various Shooting techniques, Rappelling, Martial Arts, Espionage and Surveillance techniques, Sniping, and Skiing. The candidates will also learn how to handle explosives. During "Combate Urbano" Urban Combat, one of the most demanding phases of the Selection Process, the candidates will be tested to their physical, emotional, and mental limits. They have to endure and resist. The phase ends with a personal interview with members of the Unit. They are the last to be convinced to make it into the unit.

U.E.I. Operators - Characteristics

Operators of la Unidad Especial de Intervencion are highly secretive. They usually live in very close proximity to their operating center. They are professionals in physical top condition. They have a very high level of self-control, will, and determination.

U.E.I. Facts

This unit is worldwide known. They have won several internal competitions. They competed against top units from Colombia, the United States, and Brazil.

So far, U.E.I. is known to have carried out at 370 operations and has released more than 560 hostages.