The Survey Corps is the branch of the Paradis military dedicated to exploring beyond the Walls and reclaiming human territory from the Titans. Founded over a century ago, they conduct expeditions outside Wall Rose into Titan-infested lands to study Titan behavior, map uncharted territory, and search for knowledge that could help humanity survive. Known for their Wings of Freedom insignia, they operate with the highest casualty rate of any military branch, routinely losing a third or more of their soldiers on each expedition. Their headquarters is located in the Trost District and they are led by a Commander who makes life-or-death tactical decisions during expeditions.
The Survey Corps' primary function is to venture beyond the Walls to gather intelligence about the Titans and the outside world. They are responsible for executing large-scale expeditions using formations like the Long-range Encirclement Formation to minimize losses while maximizing data collection. Beyond exploration, they serve as humanity's most proactive fighting force, developing innovative Titan-killing tactics and technologies such as the Thunder Spear. After the revelation of the truth about the world beyond the Walls, the Survey Corps shifted from fighting Titans to navigating complex political conflicts between Paradis and Marley, ultimately discovering the secrets of the Founding Titan and the true history of Eldia.
Erwin Smith served as the 13th Commander, a brilliant strategist who led the corps with ruthless determination toward the truth, ultimately sacrificing himself and most of his soldiers in the Charge at Beast Titan. Levi Ackerman, known as Humanity's Strongest Soldier, was the captain of the Special Operations Squad with unparalleled ODM combat skills, surviving countless deadly missions and later opposing Eren's genocidal plan. Hange Zoe succeeded Erwin as the 14th Commander, bringing their expertise as a Titan researcher and ultimately sacrificing their life during the final battle for Paradis.