What Is Delta Force? US Military Unit That ‘Captured’ Venezuelan President Maduro

Last Updated:January 03, 2026, 17:44 IST

Delta Force is one of the United States Army’s most secretive and elite units, with a main focus on counterterrorism.

Delta Force, the US Military Unit Reportedly Behind Maduro’s Capture (Photo: X)

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was taken into custody by members of the US military’s elite Delta Force. It followed an announcement by US President Donald Trump, who said American forces had carried out a “large-scale strike" against Venezuela and captured Maduro and his wife.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the operation had been successful and that the Venezuelan leader had been flown out of the country. He later told the New York Times that the mission involved careful planning and strong execution, describing it as a “brilliant operation".

As per reports, the operation was carried out by Delta Force, the US military’s elite special operations unit. While US authorities did not immediately confirm the details, the report said the unit was responsible for taking Maduro into custody.

Trump also said that US law enforcement agencies were involved, though he did not explain how or which agencies took part. Maduro was indicted in a US court in 2020 on charges linked to alleged narco-terrorism.

What is Delta Force?

Delta Force is officially known as the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment–Delta, or 1st SFOD-D. It is one of the United States Army’s most secretive and elite units, with a main focus on counterterrorism.

The unit is best known for capturing or killing high-value targets and disrupting terrorist networks. It also carries out direct-action missions, hostage rescues and covert operations. Delta Force often works closely with the CIA during sensitive missions.

According to Military.com, the unit has also been used to provide protection for senior US leaders during visits to dangerous or conflict-hit regions.

Operationally, Delta Force comes under the Joint Special Operations Command, known as JSOC. Administrative support is provided by the US Army Special Operations Command.

The unit was established in 1977 by Colonel Charles Beckwith. He created Delta Force after serving with the British Special Air Service in the early 1970s. At the time, the threat from global terrorism was growing, and Beckwith believed the US Army needed a highly specialised counterterrorism unit.

Who joins Delta Force

Delta Force recruits soldiers from across the US Army. Most come from the Ranger Regiment and the Army’s Special Forces. Candidates must already be serving Army personnel, meet strict rank requirements and have at least two and a half years left on their service contracts.

The unit remains one of the most secretive arms of the US military, with its operations rarely confirmed in public.

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