GIGN was established in 1974 following the Munich massacre . Created initially as a relatively small police tactical unit specialized in sensitive hostage situations , it has since grown into a larger and more diversified force of nearly 400 members , Many of its missions are classified , and members are not allowed to be publicly photographed . Since its formation , GIGN has been involved in over 1,800 missions and rescued more than 600 hostages , making it one of the most experienced counter-terrorism units in the world . The unit came into prominence following its successful assault on a hijacked Air France flight at Marseille Marignane airport in December 1994
a hijacked Air France flight
Air France Flight 8969
National Gendarmerie