Roman \'Special Forces\'?

[LvpvsRomanvs]

But "Special Forces", as defined by Websters, as "élite, highly trained military forces, specially selected to work on difficult missions" then you can arguably trace the lineage of the idea back to the Persian Immortals. Whether through specialized military training or inbred native skill, Generals throughout history have had access to special troops for special missions.

Well observed Lucullus, and welcome to RAT. Examples for specialised native troops could be the Cretan archers, elite missile troops of their day, along with Balearic slingers. The Batavians were the elite amphibious assault troops, and if I remember correctly, Gallic cavalry had a very good reputation also. But can we consider these troops special forces?

Concerning Roman special forces however, I came across an interesting theory as I was discussing the subject with someone. Apparently, though I myself must look more into it, there was some form of Roman 'special forces' group stationed in Deva (Chester, UK) for a planned assault on Hibernia (Ireland), which, supposedly, never happened in the end. However, this is mere conjecture until something is actually found that can support the thoery. Has anyone else come across this theory before?

- Lorenzo/Virilis