The SMF was formed following the withdrawal of the British garrison on Mauritius, mainly detachments of the King's African Rifles, in 1960.

[2] The primary task of the SMF when it was formed was to ensure the internal and external security of the country.

[3] As formed, the SMF's initial makeup was made up of members of the local police force and Mauritian veterans of World War II.

[4] The SMF is formed as a battlegroup consisting of approximately 1,500 men led by a Commanding Officer.

[3] The badge of the SMF is made up of a wreath of oak leaves surmounted by the national coat of arms.