Much like the SAS during the Troubles in Northern Ireland, their mission encompassed intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, reconnaissance, and the harassment of the adversary's leadership.

Drawing inspiration from the capabilities of the British 22nd Special Air Service, the 11 SSR developed new specialised skills, including airborne pathfinders and frogmen.

Under the Nelson Glory Project in 1990, counter-terrorism instructors from the 22 Special Air Service (22 SAS) were dispatched to impart their expertise to the 11 SSR.

[3][4][5][note 2] Each Sabre squadron under the 11 SSR now distinguishes itself with specific capabilities and specialties, reflecting its individual roles and functions, in contrast to the 22 SAS.

[5] In 2009, a significant restructuring occurred within the 21st Special Service Group units, leading to the reorganisation of the 22nd Commando Regiment (22 CDO) to specialise specifically in amphibious warfare.

Initially comprising five sabre squadrons, the 11 SSR underwent restructuring as the 22nd Commando Regiment (22 CDO) evolved into a special forces unit specialising in amphibious operations.

Operating under the direct authority of the Prime Minister's Office, the NSOF enjoyed increased autonomy, robust support from all federal government agencies, and substantial funding.

[12] To be eligible for selection in the 11 SSR, an applicant must currently serve as a member of any Gerak Khas-related unit (such as the 21st Special Service Group, the Special Warfare Training Centre, or the 91st Intelligence Operations Group), maintain a clean disciplinary record, and have completed more than six years of service in any Gerak Khas-related unit.

According to Major (Retd) Nazar Talib's book "Menjunjung Bere Hijau" (2012),[13] the 11 SSR is more inclined to recruit Malaysian Army commandos with expertise in explosive ordnance disposal.