Decima Flottiglia MAS

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Decima Flottiglia MAS (Italian for "10th Assault Vehicle Flotilla") was an Italian commando frogman unit of the Regia Marina (Royal Italian Navy) created during World War II. The unit was a pioneer in the use of underwater assault vehicles and human torpedoes, and it played a significant role in naval warfare during the conflict.

History

The origins of Decima Flottiglia MAS can be traced back to the early 1930s when the Italian Navy began experimenting with underwater assault techniques. The unit was officially formed in 1939, and it quickly became one of the most effective and feared naval special forces of the war.

World War II Operations

Decima Flottiglia MAS conducted numerous successful operations during World War II, including the sinking of the British battleships HMS Valiant and HMS Queen Elizabeth in the Raid on Alexandria in December 1941. The unit also carried out attacks on Allied shipping in the Mediterranean Sea, using a variety of innovative techniques and equipment.

Post-Armistice Period

After the Armistice of Cassibile in September 1943, Italy was divided between the Allied-occupied south and the Italian Social Republic in the north. Decima Flottiglia MAS split into two factions: one that joined the Allies and another that continued to fight alongside the Germans under the command of Prince Junio Valerio Borghese.

Equipment and Techniques

Decima Flottiglia MAS was known for its use of human torpedoes, also known as "Siluri a Lenta Corsa" (SLC), and manned torpedoes. These devices allowed frogmen to approach enemy ships undetected and attach explosive charges. The unit also employed explosive motorboats and other specialized equipment designed for covert naval operations.

Legacy

The tactics and technology developed by Decima Flottiglia MAS had a lasting impact on naval special forces worldwide. Many modern naval commando units, such as the United States Navy SEALs and the British Special Boat Service, can trace their origins and techniques back to the innovations of Decima Flottiglia MAS.

Related Pages

• Regia Marina
• Human torpedo
• Raid on Alexandria (1941)
• Italian Social Republic
• Prince Junio Valerio Borghese
• United States Navy SEALs
• British Special Boat Service