In July 2007 the ANA graduated its first commandos. The commandos underwent a grueling three-month course being trained by American Special Operations Forces. They were fully equipped with US equipment and had received specialized light infantry training with the capability to conduct raids, direct action, and reconnaissance in support of counterinsurgency operations; and they provided a strategic response capability for the Afghan government. By the end of 2008, the six ANA commando battalions were stationed in the southern region of Afghanistan assisting the Canadian forces. As of 2017, the commando brigade grew into corps size with 21,000 commandos, with their number eventually reaching 30,000 commandos. ANA commando force comprised only seven percent of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces, however they engaged in 70 percent to 80 percent of the fighting during the War in Afghanistan.