Chapter V

Weapons and Equipment

Although antiterrorist operators will have access to the standard weapons and equipment used by their country’s armed forces or police, they will also have specialized kit to fit specific missions. These may include suppressed weapons for scenarios where stealth is a necessity, specialized underwater weapons for dealing with enemy combat swimmers, or extreme long-range sniping rifles that will allow a terrorist to be eliminated at up to a mile. The operator may need HALO or HAHO gear to get to the site of the incident or scuba gear to silently infiltrate under water. Some units allow their operators to choose from a wide array of weapons or equipment those items that suit each operator. Other units issue each operator with a range of weapons and equipment from which he or she will choose those that fit their specific mission.

The weapons chosen by antiterror units will often be the latest, most high-tech available; however, classics such as the HK MP5 or Steyr SSG remain in wide use as well. Sometimes an antiterrorist operator needs a weapon that will function as a scalpel and occasionally he may need one that will function as a hammer—the unit’s armory should contain both types. Likewise, he may need equipment to allow him to reach the site where terrorists are barricaded or equipment to breach that site once he arrives. He may have to gather clandestine intelligence about the terrorists and their intent, which will involve a need for the latest electronic gear and imaging equipment. Or he may simply need an effective automatic knife to cut a tangled line.

In conclusion, then, the antiterrorist operator must have a wide range of weapons and other gear available, as well as the training to use them effectively.

SUBMACHINE GUNS

Although there is a trend among antiterrorist units away from the SMG (submachine gun) as the primary weapon it is still widely used. The SMG has the advantage of being compact for use in entries or tubular assaults, and of using a pistol caliber round that has light recoil for fast repeat shots and lower penetration in buildings, aircraft, ship’s passageways, and such like. SMGs also lend themselves to the attachment of suppressors, which are tactically advantageous for missions involving clandestine approach and assault.

Overwhelmingly, the most popular SMG for antiterrorist teams has been the HK MP5. Highly accurate and reliable, the MP5 was first used by Germany’s GSG-9 followed by the SAS and other units. The basic MP5 models are the MP5A2, which has a fixed stock, and the MP5A3, which has a sliding stock. The former is a bit easier to shoot accurately while the latter is better for parachute or helicopter insertions, waterborne operations, or any other movement where a more compact weapon is desirable. There are other variants, which have a three-shot burst mode. The MP5SD is widely used by antiterrorist teams as well. This suppressed version of the MP5 both offers the advantage of a low noise signature and cuts the flash for use in areas where there might be flammable fumes or materials. The MP5K is in the inventory of many antiterrorist units for use in VIP protection assignments or other situations when compactness is paramount.

Traditionally, after the MP5, the most popular SMG with antiterrorist units was the Uzi, which has a reputation for being very durable and reliable. Combat swimmer units in particular have chosen the Uzi. The Uzi was around before the MP5 so some units already had it in the inventory, a major consideration in the early days of many units. The MP5 fires from a closed bolt, which is generally considered an advantage, while earlier Uzis fired from an open bolt. Later versions of the Uzi were, however, available in closed bolt models. More compact “Mini” and “Micro” versions of the Uzi are also available.

A member of the Special Air Service in full assault kit including the HK MP5. (22nd Special Air Service Regiment)

The FN P90 SMG has been adopted by many antiterrorist units over the last decade. The P90 has many advantages. Though only 19.7 inches overall due to its bullpup design, the P90 holds 50 rounds, thus offering a lot of firepower. Its 5.7x28 mm cartridge has received mixed reaction from users. Its AP (Armor Piercing) ammo offers excellent penetration against body armor, one reason it was used during the assault on the Japanese Ambassador’s residence in Peru. The stopping power of its light, fast bullet is open to some question. Still, its ability to punch through vests and its compact size have caused a lot of units to adopt the P90.

A sniper of the Slovenian Specialna Enota antiterrorist unit prepares to engage a target with the Steyr SSG rifle. (Slovenian National Police)

CARBINES

There has been a trend for antiterrorist units to adopt a rifle caliber carbine. The rifle caliber weapon offers many advantages and if frangible ammunition is available for use in an urban setting, aboard ship, etc., it is an excellent choice. The rifle caliber carbine offers better performance against body armor or terrorists behind cover. It also gives the operator better range.

The U.S. M4 Carbine version of the M16 is widely used by antiterrorist units. The M4 has a 14.5 5-inch barrel and is just under 30 inches with stock collapsed and jut under 33 inches with stock extended. Current versions of this stock have multi-positions to allow the operator to tailor length of the stock for use over body armor and to his own arm length. The M4 may also be configured with Picatinny rails to take an array of optical sights, illuminators, and such like, as well as an M203 grenade launcher

In Russia and many countries that were formerly part of the Soviet Union, the AKSU short version of the AK74 is used by antiterrorist units. The AKSU fires the 5.45x39 mm round used in the AK74, a round that has a reputation for tumbling once it enters a target’s body to increase stopping/killing power. Overall length of the AKSU with stock folded is only 19.3 inches and with stock extended 28.7 inches; however, to achieve this compactness, barrel length is only 8 inches. Russia also has various specialized assault rifles and carbines available such as the AS Silent Assault Rifle, which fires a special 9x39 mm round that uses a heavy 250 grain subsonic bullet at relatively close ranges. There is also the A-91 Compact Assault Rifle, which goes back to the 7.62x39 mm round used in the AK47 as opposed to the 5.45x39 mm round, which has been the Russian standard for decades. For Delphin, Russia’s underwater Spetsnaz, the APS Underwater Assault Rifle that fires darts is available.

A combat swimmer of Greece’s DYK leaves the sea ready to engage with his Glock 17 pistol. (Hellenic Navy)

These operators from Ukraine’s Berkut still use weapons of the Kalashnikov family, in this case with suppressors. (Ukrainian Ministry of the Interior)

A member of the Irish Army Ranger WIng with a Steyr AUG mounting grenade launcher, optical sight, and an IR illuminator. (Irish Defense Forces)

Another carbine used by a substantial number of units is the Steyr AUG. The most widely used “bullpup” design in the world, the AUG in original format has an integral 1.5x optical sight, though versions with a flattop are available to take an array of other optics. The carbine version of the AUG has a 16-inch barrel yet is only 28.1 inches overall. There is an even more compact version with a 13 8-inch barrel that is only 24.6 inches overall. France’s FAMAS is another bullpup assault rifle, which is used by French units and a few former French colonies.

The German G36K model or the even shorter G36C is in use with some antiterrorist units, particularly German and Spanish ones. The sighting system comprises an integral 3x sight as well as a 1x red dot sight. Backup iron sights are incorporated as well. The K model of the G36 has a 12.5-inch barrel and is 24.2 inches with stock folded or 33.9 inches with stock deployed. The C model has a 9 9-inch barrel and is 19.7 inches overall with stock folded and 28.4 inches overall with stock deployed.

FN’s F2000 is seeing some use with antiterrorist units. It is another bullpup design with either integral optical sight or flat top. Even though it has a 15.75-inch barrel, overall length is only 28.6 inches.

Many other countries including China and Singapore have bullpup designs, which are in use with their antiterrorist operators. The bullpup design lends itself well to use by operators who may have to move through tight spaces during entries or may have to take a shot very near to a hostage or fellow operator in close quarters. There are antiterrorist units that use the standard infantry assault rifle of their country, but they are few. The ability to handle the carbine or bullpup rifle in confined conditions quickly makes it a far better choice.

HANDGUNS

The handgun serves multiple purposes for the antiterrorist operator. It is the secondary arm to which he will go should his primary weapon malfunction during an operation. In some tactical situations, the handgun will serve as the primary weapon. For example, in some assaults where conditions are extremely tight (e.g. when. infiltrating through heating or air conditioning vents), the handgun may be the weapon of choice. In some cases, suppressed handguns will be carried to take out lights or terrorist sentries. The operator may also have to get into position by posing as a member of an aircraft maintenance crew or some other less threatening individual. In these cases, the concealed handgun may be the weapon of choice. Many members of antiterrorist units sometimes draw the close protection assignment as well; in which case they will normally carry one or more handguns. Some units, in fact, issue at least two handguns, with one being more concealable for the close protection mission.

The HK G36K has achieved substantial acceptance among antiterrorist units; note this one mounts a light. (C&S)

For many years the most commonly encountered handgun in use with antiterrorist units was the FN P35 “Hi-Power.” Though the P35 is an excellent pistol, it was often chosen because it was the standard military and/or police pistol of a given country. Though units using the P35 will still be encountered, and a few units allow more senior members to retain the P35 even after switching to a newer design, it has been replaced within most units that formerly used it.

Today, the most widely used pistol among antiterrorist teams is probably the SIG P226. Highly reliable, accurate, and with a 15-round magazine capacity in 9x19 mm caliber, the P226 makes an excellent choice. For antiterrorist use, many units will select the P226R—the “R” standing for rail to allow attachment of various types of illuminators. Tritium night sights will often be incorporated as well. There are variations of the basic P226 in action type (i.e. traditional double/single action or DAK constant action). Although most units around the world use the P226 in 9x19 mm, versions are also available in .357 SIG, or .40 S&W. Some units may also choose the P228 or P229, which are slightly more compact than the P226, or the P220, which is available in .45 acp.

Also widely used among antiterrorist units is the Glock pistol. The Glock 17 in in 9x19 mm caliber is overwhelmingly the most popular version of the Glock with operators. Some combat swimmer units—Greece’s DYK, for example—add an extended threaded barrel for a suppressor and the sub aqua spring cups to make the Glock more effective for firing as the operator breaks water. Other variants of the Glock 17 used by some units include the compact Glock 19 and subcompact Glock 26, the latter two often intended for close protection duties. The select fire Glock 18 is in the inventory of some units. A few units also use larger caliber Glocks such as the Glock 22.40 S&W caliber or the Glock 21.45 acp, the latter used by Austria’s Jagdkommando among others.

One of the few revolvers to have achieved use among antiterrorist units is the Manurhin MR73. The example shown was formerly used by Austria’s EKO Cobra.

Versions of the Heckler & Koch USP are used by a substantial number of units, including Australia’s SASR. The USP is relatively compact for a full-sized combat pistol at 7.64 inches overall. There is also a compact model that is only 6.81 inches overall. The USP is available in 9x19 mm and .40 S&W as well as .45 acp in a larger version. The USP Tactical model has a threaded extended barrel for use of a suppressor. The HK P7 was used by some units in the past but has generally been replaced by the USP, which is designated the P8 in German and Spanish service versions. A few units also have the HK Mark 23 SOCOM pistol, a large .45 acp pistol sometimes termed an “offensive” pistol since it is designed to use a suppressor and various types of illuminators. At 9.65 inches overall without suppressor and weighing in at 2.42 lb, the Mark 23 is not a good choice for most operators who carry the pistol as a secondary weapon. It does, however, serve relatively well as a primary weapon for combat swimmers or others who may have to silently eliminate the enemy.

Some U.S. antiterrorist operators and a few others around the world still use modernized versions of the Colt 1911 pistol. Normally, current versions such as the Springfield Operator, which incorporates a rail for illuminators, are used—by the FBI HRT, for example. These pistols are in .45 acp and can be extremely accurate and reliable as well as offering a lot of stopping power. Some MEUSOC and MARSOC U.S. Marines who may be charged with hostage rescue use high high-quality versions of the 1911 pistol, the MARSOC version being produced by Kimber Mfg.

Italy’s Beretta 92 is used by some units, often because it is the standard military or police arm of their country. At 8.54 inches overall, the 92 is a relatively large pistol but it has a reputation for extreme reliability. U.S. troops deployed to Iraq have had some reliability issues with their M9 versions of the Beretta 92, but these are normally traceable to the government’s purchase of cheap magazines rather than the pistol itself. Among users of the Beretta 92 is Italy’s NOCS antiterrorist unit. Copies of the Beretta 92, such as those by Taurus, are used by some units as well.

The HK USP/M8 has become one of the more popular handguns among antiterrorist units.

Some U.S. antiterrorist units as well as a few allies have adopted 1911 type pistols with rails for lights or lasers; these Kimbers are similar to those adopted by USMC MARSOC personnel.

The Beretta 92/M9 is one of the pistols used by antiterrorist units. Note the extended magazines to give more firepower.

Many Russian antiterrorist units still use versions of the Makarov pistol, including the standard PM model and the PMM, a product-improved version of the Makarov, which takes a more powerful version of the 9x18 mm cartridge and has a higher magazine capacity. Some elite units such as Alpha and Vympel also have the 6P35 Grach, which chambers a more powerful 9x19 mm AP round than the NATO standard and has a 17-round magazine capacity.

At least a few units have some FN Five-seveN pistols available for use against suspects wearing body armor. The Five-seveN fires the same 5.7x28 mm round as the P90 SMG and has a magazine capacity of 20 rounds. At 8.2 inches overall, the Five-seveN is a relatively large pistol. Very flat shooting due to the high velocity cartridge, a skilled operator can readily score hits on a man-sized target with it at 100 yards or further.

For combat swimmers assigned to MAT missions, there are two specialized underwater pistols available. HK makes the P11, which fires 7.62 mm darts from a sealed five-barrel unit. Reloads are by replacing the barrel. The P11 is in the inventory of many of the world’s naval special warfare units. For Russian Naval Spetsnaz, the SPP-1 Underwater Pistol is available. It fires 4.5mm darts from a four-round magazine.

Some countries use their own indigenous pistols as a matter of national pride, but overwhelmingly antiterrorist units will choose among those that have been discussed above.

SNIPING RIFLES

The sniping rifle and the trained marksmen who use it are a key element in antiterrorist operations. An antiterrorist unit needs enough trained snipers so that at least two can be assigned to each terrorist during an operation. As the French GIGN did in Djibouti, an incident may be quickly ended if the snipers can acquire all or most of the terrorists and eliminate them surgically. At Djibouti, only one terrorist remained after the snipers did their work, and he was neutralized by a follow-up assault. In incidents involving a lone terrorist or a relatively small number of terrorists, the snipers can wait for the green light to act or until they see a terrorist about to kill a hostage. There are other scenarios, however, where a skilled tactical marksman can influence events. At Beslan in Russia, for example, there were a large number of terrorists who began shooting children as they attempted to flee the school amidst explosions and fires. Russian snipers saved many hostages by engaging the terrorists with fire whenever they showed themselves. Snipers can also be used to initiate a dynamic entry during a rescue by eliminating a terrorist sentry who might stop or slow down the entry team just before the entry begins. In maritime antiterrorist operations, snipers on other ships or in helicopters can give covering fire to the boarding team as it moves to seize the target vessel. The uses of the sniper rifle for antiterrorist missions are myriad.

In looking at sniping rifles in use with antiterrorist units today, it is important to understand that rifles in different calibers are chosen for different missions. The .308 (7.62x51mm NATO) chambering, for example, is still widely used for urban sniping and for shots out to 500-–600 yards, though skilled snipers can take much longer shots with the .308. The Russian 7.62x54R round ranges to approximately the same distances. Some units now use the .300 Winchester Magnum round to extend the range of the sniping rifle another 200 yards or so. However, many units jump from the .308 sniper rifle to one in .338 Lapua caliber for shots to 1,200-–1,500 yards. The .338 Lapua round has proven so effective, in fact, that many units now use it as their long-range sniping rifle. Finally, there are the extreme long-range “anti-material” rifles in .50 Browning MG caliber that can be, and have been, used to take shots out to a mile or more.

One of the most popular and longest serving precision rifles is the Austrian Steyr SSG. The SSG has a cold hammer forged barrel, which has always been a boon to accuracy. The basic SSG model is chambered in .308 caliber and has been available with different barrel lengths. An updated version, the SSG 03, is also available in .300 Winchester Magnum, but most antiterrorist units that use the SSG have retained the classic P1 model in .308.

The Accuracy International line of precision rifles manufactured in the UK has achieved wide acceptance among special ops and antiterrorist units. The Accuracy International PM was the first model adopted in the British Army and is still in very wide service. In the version marketed as the Counter-Terrorist model, a 2.5-10x variable scope is standard. The AW (Arctic Warfare) model in .308 is also widely used these days, as well. (The Arctic Warfare designation, by the way, comes from the fact the rifle is specifically designed to perform well in extreme cold weather.) There is also an AWMP that is fully suppressed.

Four of the most widely used rounds by antiterrorist snipers: from left to right, .308 NATO, .300 WInchester Magnum, .338 Lapua Magnum, .50 BMG.

The Accuracy International AWM Magnum series of rifles is widely used at longer ranges. Available in 7 mm Remington Magnum, .300 Winchester Magnum, and .338 Lapua Magnum, these rifles allow a killing shot at much greater ranges. The SAS, among other units, has been especially impressed with the performance of the .338 Lapua AWM.

Among units that want a self-loading tactical rifle, the HK PSG-1 has proven popular. The PSG-1 normally comes standard with a 6x42 scope with illuminated reticle. This rifle will take 5- or 20-round magazines, the latter being useful to cover an assault team or escaping hostages.

French antiterrorist units such as GIGN and RAID have used the French produced FR-F1, FR-F2, FR-G1, and FR-G2. The FR series of rifles have detachable 10-round magazines and are bolt actions. Normal chambering is .308. The standard scope is a relatively low powered 4X .

Finland produces some of the best tactical rifles in the world. The Tikka T3 Tactical is a light precision rifle capable of well under a MOA (minute of angle) accuracy yet is easily transported. The most widely used Finnish tactical rifle, however, is the SAKO TRG42, and earlier TRG-21 or TRG-41 models. The TRG-42 is available in .308, .300 Winchester Magnum, and .338 Lapua. A folding stock version is available, which is a real boon for snipers who may have to carry and climb with the weapon to get into shooting position. Folding stock versions of the Accuracy International rifles are available as well.

There are various U.S. sniping rifles used by American operators and some allied antiterrorist units. The USMC M40A1 sniper rifle, which is based on the Remington 700, has seen some use. The latest improved version is designated the M40A3. Also based on the Remington 700 is the M24 SWS (Sniper Weapon System) developed as a complete package for the U.S. Army. The disadvantage of the Remington 700 as the basis for an antiterrorist precision rifle is that the magazine is a fixed integral one rather than a detachable one. One of the most widely used tactical rifles from the USA is the Springfield Armory M21. This self-loading, match grade, semi-auto version of the M14 rifle is very accurate, offers fast follow-up shots, and takes either a 10- or 20- round detachable box magazines.

The SAKO TRG-42 in .338 Lapua is widely used among antiterrorist units as a long-range sniping rifle. The version shown has the folding stock to make it even easier for special operations/ antiterrorist personnel to transport it on parachute, helicopter, boat, or other insertions. The scope is a Leupold LR/T.

Among U.S. antiterrorist forces and some allies, the self-loading Springfield Armory M21 has achieved popularity. In this case it mounts a NightForce scope that has an illuminated reticle for night usage as well as day.

Though not known for its tack-driving accuracy, the 7.62x54R caliber Russian SVD Dragunov remains in wide service in Russia and former republics of the Soviet Union. The detachable 10-round magazine and 4x scope with illuminated reticle make the SVD a good choice for relatively close range usage against a substantial number of terrorists as at Beslan. The Russians have developed various sniping systems that are in use with Alpha, Vympel, and other Spetsnaz units. The SV-98 is a bolt action rifle in 7.62x54R, though 7.61x51 mm NATO versions are available for export; it can take a suppressor. The standard sight is a 7 power, which retains the same reticle as the SVD, allowing easy transitioning of snipers.

One other sniping system which should be mentioned since it is used by various antiterrorist units is the PGM Ultima Ratio rifle in 7.62x51mm NATO, .300 Winchester Magnum, and .338 Lapua. Produced in France and marketed by FNH, PGM rifles have a reputation for superb accuracy rivaling the SAKO and Accuracy International lines.

The term “anti-material rifle” is used for .50 caliber and larger sniper rifles. These rifles may also be used in that role, too, to destroy communications equipment, rocket launching panels, and various other high high-tech gear. In the antiterrorist role, there are situations when a large caliber rifle might be used to stop a vehicle or destroy some type of weapons control device. However, the “anti-material” rifles also see substantial use as long-range antipersonnel weapons as well.

The USA pioneered the use of large-caliber sniping rifles and many units around the world still use the Barrett M82A1 or the more compact M95. Also produced in the USA is the McMillan .50 caliber tactical rifle. Accuracy International offers a .50 version of their tactical rifle in the AW50F with folding stock. Finland produces various Helenius .50 anti-material rifles, which, like all Finnish rifles, are very accurate. Hungarian Gepard .50 rifles also see some use, especially in Eastern Europe. Gepards are available in 12.7x108 mm as well as 12.7x99 mm (.50 Browning MG). The Gepard is also produced in 14.5x114 mm caliber (Russian heavy machinegun caliber). PGM Precision produces the Hecate, which is used by French units and some others and has a reputation for being one of the best of the heavy sniping rifles. Russia offers the self-loading V-94 anti-material rifle, which is chambered in 12.7x108 mm. Its reputation among Russian snipers using it in Chechnya was not good.

A U.S. Marine fires a Barrett M82A3 .50 Long Range sniping rifle. (USMC)

A GIGN operator wearing gas mask and carrying a SPAS-12 shotgun, which is widely used among antiterrorist units since its dual action allows it to be used for breaching loads, combat loads, or less lethal munitions. (Gendarmerie Nationale)

TACTICAL SHOTGUNS

In antiterrorist units, the tactical shotgun serves primarily for quickly taking down doors by shooting hinges or locks during a dynamic entry. It can also be a useful weapon during MAT operations since penetration when clearing passageways or cabins will be less of a problem. In some situations, the shotgun may be used to deploy less lethal munitions when clearing sensitive areas of protesters or in other situations where lethal force is not deemed necessary. For antiterrorist units who are used for security when transporting valuable commodities or dangerous prisoners, once again the combat shotgun has a very real mission. The 12-gauge is the standard in use with virtually all units.

The most popular tactical shotgun probably remains the venerable Remington 870, which is highly reliable and proven over decades of military and police usage. Other U.S. shotguns that have seen use with antiterrorist units are the Remington 11-87P, a self-loading tactical shotgun, and the Mossberg 590 series. Some Winchester 1200 tactical shotguns remain in use with a few units as well.

Many units use one of the Italian dual action tactical shotguns. The Franchi SPAS-12 is in wide usage as is the Benelli M3. These shotguns have the advantage of use as a self-loader for most applications but offer the capability to be quickly switched to slide action for deployment of less lethal ammunition that might not cycle the bolt if used in self-loading mode. The M1 Benelli and M4 Benelli have been used by some units as well. The latter was adopted by the USMC as the M1014 and is in use with Marine MARSOC and MEUSOC units as well as a growing number of non-US antiterrorist units.

The Russian Saiga 12 shotgun is a self-loading, magazine-fed weapon that is highly thought of for tactical use outside of Russia as well as within. Some Russian special units use the Saiga as a tactical shotgun. Spetsnaz units also have access to the KS-23, which is of approximately 4 gauge. This powerful shotgun can fire tear gas, rubber bullets, buckshot, or an extremely effective anti-vehicular round. Recoil is reportedly quite fierce.

As with the pistol, a few units use locally produced tactical shotguns, but the ones discussed above remain the standards.

GRENADE LAUNCHERS

Used to deploy gas or smoke grenades primarily in the antiterrorist role, the grenade launcher may also be used to deploy antipersonnel munitions, flares, or other munitions as well.

Today, grenade launchers such as the US M203 40mm grenade launcher, which is mounted on the M4 or M16, are the most widely used since they allow an operator to serve as a “grenadier” while still retaining the full capabilities of his primary weapon. Among other popular rifle- or carbine-mounted launchers are the Russian GP-25/GP-30 for the AK74, the German HK79 for the G3 rifle, and the British ISTEC ISL 274 40 mm launcher for the Steyr AUG. Russia also produces the BS-1 30 mm silenced grenade launcher.

Some units prefer stand alone grenade launchers. The most popular is probably the HK 69A1 single shot 40mm grenade launcher. Russia offers the GM-94 43 mm grenade launcher, which is fed by a tubular magazine above the barrel and holds three or four rounds. The US M79 single-shot grenade launcher still sees services with some units as well.

OPTICAL SIGHTS

Optical sights have been used since the nineteenth century for sniping rifles, but the use of highly durable optical sights for battle rifles is a much more recent occurrence. The SUSAT sight used on the British L85A1 and the integral optical sight used on the Steyr AUG helped prove that optical sights could stand up to the rigors of field usage. As a result, today most armies, and virtually all antiterrorist units, use some type of optical sight on their SMGs or carbines.

A U.S. Special Forces operator armed with a carbine that mounts an Aimpoint optic, M203 grenade launcher, white light illuminator, and infrared illuminator. These may be from the SOPMOD kit. (SOCOM)

Members of FSB Alpha offer a good view of equipment used by Russia’s premier antiterrorist team. The rifle carried by the operator in the foreground appears to be one of the Kalashnikov 100-series of rifles. Note that each operator has his rifle set up to fit his individual tastes. The one in the background has a vertical fore grip with built-in light of the type produced by SureFire and has an ACOG type sight. (FSB)

The choice of optical sights for SMGs or carbines basically divides into one of two options. The first is red dot sights, which are normally 1x, such as the US AimPoint, Trijicon Reflex, or EOTech. These are widely used for CQC (Close Quarters Combat) applications on both carbines and SMGs and hence are very well suited to use for antiterrorist teams carrying out entries. Among other widely used red dots are the Russian PK-AS /B.A.R.S. and Kobra, widely used by FSB Alpha and Vympel as well as other Spetsnaz units and the tiny Doctor sight manufactured in Germany. The latter is especially useful for compact SMGs since it is so small.

The second option comprises sights such as the Trijicon ACOG or the Canadian ELCAN, which offer magnification of 4x plus or minus. These are very versatile optics and allow the operator to use the reticle for CQC but also to rapidly engage a target to hundreds of yards using stadia lines if necessary. The RCO, the U.S. Marine ACOG, employs a red chevron reticle that is very fast at CQC yet is also quite effective at 500 yards or more. Among satisfied users of the ELCAN are the Special Air Service and Royal Dutch Marines. Both the ACOG and ELCAN have established an excellent reputation for standing up to hard usage.

For use on sniping rifles, the standard has changed with many antiterrorist units. For decades, precision rifles employed a fixed power scope. The Steyr SSG, for example, was often supplied with a Hensoldt 10x42 mm scope that was of extremely high quality. Other European sniping rifles were often supplied with fixed power Khales, Swarovski, or Schmidt & Bender fixed power scopes. Often sniping rifles were supplied with a 6x or even a 4x scope. In the USA, Unertl, Leatherwood, and Weaver fixed power scopes were often used for sniping rifles. In Russia and the old Soviet sphere of influence, the 4x24 PSO-1 scope was the standard.

As higher powered .300 Winchester Magnum, .338 Lapua, and .50 sniping rifles have come into use, variable power scopes that allow them to be used effectively over a range of distances have become more popular. Schmidt & Bender and IOR/Valdada ones have been popular in Europe as have Leupold and NightForce in the USA. Scopes such as Leupold’s 6.5-20x50mm LR/T or NightForce’s NXS 5.5-22x56 mm—both with illuminated reticles for night usage—allow a .338 Lapua or .50 sniping rifle to be used over a wide range of distances quite effectively. One scope that has proven useful with the self-loading M21 rifle from Springfield Armory is one from BW Optics that incorporates a reticle designed to allow the marksman to quickly score hits at varying distances.

BW Optics Y-TAC Reticle The Y-TAC Reticle, which is designed particularly for use with the M21 sniping rifle, offers a good illustration of a complicated reticle designed for use by sophisticated marksmen. Only the portion within the circle is actually seen by the sniper. The illustrations below and to the side show how the reticle may be used in determining range, compensating for bullet drop and so on.

Many skilled snipers still prefer a fixed power scope of 10x and continue to use one of the high high-quality traditional models. To score precise hits at long range requires a good rifle, good ammunition, and a good scope, but most of all a skilled marksman. Whether fixed or variable, current scopes for precision rifles offer the sniper great light gathering capability, clearness, range-finding capability, and, if desired, illuminated reticle. Although many sniping scopes do incorporate range-finding capability, most snipers will also use a laser range finder today so that they can dial in elevation precisely. Speaking of dialing in elevation and also windage, modern scopes for precision sniping rifles allow very precise adjustment to ¼ MOA or even to ⅛ MOA.

Tactical Reticles for Long Range Sniping Scopes

CQC to Mid-Range Tactical Reticles

There is also a category of scopes that falls between the CQC red dot type and the sniper rifle scope. Many scopes are designed for use on a self-loading carbine that may be used at close or long range. The advantages of the ACOG or the ELCAN have already been discussed for this usage, but there are other scopes that are designed for a specific scenario that may arise in antiterrorist operations. Operators have found that when they clear a building they need an optic with a wide field of view and a quick acquisition reticle such as a red dot, normally with 1x magnification. However, they may come out of that building and find themselves under fire from a sniper at 100 or 200 yards away. To most effectively engage that sniper, they need a scope with more magnification. Two optical sights designed to meet this need are the Trijicon ECOS, which has a standard ACOG for longer range with a small Doctor red dot sight piggybacked atop it. The ELCAN’s Specter DR offers another solution since it can be quickly switched from a 1x red dot to a 4x by just flicking a lever on the scope’s body. Schmidt & Bender, NightForce, and IOR/Valdada all offer scopes that can serve in this situation as well.

Antiterrorist units will also have specialized night vision optics. Since many antiterrorist operations take place in darkness, often shortly before dawn, night vision scopes are an important adjunct to their weapons. Various types of night telescopic sights are available, including those that rely on available light or those that are used in conjunction with infrared illuminators. There are also passive infrared telescopic sights that pick up the heat signatures of individuals or objects even in rain, fog, or other adverse conditions. Compact night optics, which may be mounted in front of standard day optics and used in conjunction with the optical sight that is already zeroed, are very useful, especially with some of the compact battle rifle optical sights. A discussion of how night vision devices and scopes work is given below under NVDs (Night Vision Devices).

Some companies offer a dual day/night scope system that is very versatile and fits the needs of antiterrorist snipers who may enter a hide at night yet still be waiting for a shot when day arrives. A couple of scopes from ATN offer good examples of this type of optic. A 2-6x68DNS or 4-12x80DNS is available. In either case, the scope functions as a standard day scope but by removing the day eyepiece and replacing it with a night eyepiece, the sniper is ready for a shot in darkness. Changing the eyepiece does not affect zero of the scope so the sniper is ready to go from day to night or night to day while remaining ready to take a shot if given the “green light.” These scopes are also supplied with infrared illuminators that may be used in conjunction with the scope in total darkness. For use by combat swimmers, some night vision optics are available that may be used to depths of 50 meters.

Among U.S. manufacturers of high-tech night vision optics are Insight Technology Raytheon, Litton, Varo, and ATN. The Russians make a wide array of night optical sights that have a reputation for durability. Since these sights are quite reasonably priced compared with some produced in the West, they are especially popular with antiterrorist units in some developing countries as well as those formerly in the Soviet sphere of influence. In the UK, Pilkington night optics have seen substantial use as well as having been exported to friendly nations. Various other nations with a sophisticated electronics manufacturing base have produced night vision optics as well.

ILLUMINATORS

The term “illuminators” is often used to cover an array of lights and lasers that may be mounted on weapons. The simplest type of illuminator is the white light illuminator (i.e. flashlight). Early examples were commercial flashlights mounted on some type of mount affixed to the weapon. Early SAS lights mounted on the HK MP5 were of this type. Later, weapons incorporating rails designed specifically to take a light and/or laser were offered. Various companies now offer white light illuminators that slide onto a Picatinny or other type of rail and lock in place. In the USA, Insight Technology, BlackHawk, Streamlight, and SureFire offer an array of very high- quality ones. Most antiterrorist units now choose a handgun with rails for mounting a light and operators often carry the weapon with the light mounted. Lights are also affixed to SMGs, carbines, or shotguns. Some units use IR (infrared) illuminators, which allows them to see targets without signaling their position with a visible light. NVGs (Night Vision Goggles) are necessary when using an IR illuminator.

BlackHawk’s Xiphos weapons light is interesting as it adds an additional feature that maybe useful in antiterrorist operations. In addition to the constant or intermittent On features incorporated into other weapons lights, the Xiphos also offers a strobe feature. Antiterrorist units have experimented with strobes for disorienting terrorists during an operation; hence, the Xiphos offers the option of strobing during an entry, which may disorient the terrorist while also illuminating him for a shot.

Visible and IR lasers are also widely used. Operators zero the laser so it matches the point of aim of the weapon at a certain distance. Once the laser is zeroed, the weapon will shoot where the red dot points. As part of the U.S. SOPMOD (Special Operators Peculiar) Kit, Insight Technology developed various illuminators and laser pointers to fit on the M4 carbine. These included the CVL (Carbine Visible Laser), AN-PAQ-4C IR Aiming Laser, AN/PEQ-2A combo IR Aiming Laser and Illuminator. More recently Insight has offered the ATPIAL (Advanced Target Pointer/Illuminator/Aiming Light), which is very compact and combines visible and IR lasers and IR illuminator. The ATPIAL is primarily designed for the M4 carbine. Some years ago when the HK Mark 23 SOCOM Offensive Pistol was developed, Insight Technology had pioneered such multifunctional illuminators with the LAM (which combined visible and IR illuminator, visible laser, and IR laser in one module).

A similar device, the MOLAD (Multi-Operational Laser Aiming Device) is offered by Laser Devices, Inc. The MOLAD combines visible and IR illuminators and lasers in one module only about 4 inches long, 1.85 inches high, and 7.3 ounces in weight. The MOLAD fits any pistol with a Picatinny (MIL SPEC-1913) rail.

To keep the weight of the M4 carbine or other weapon down while still offering wide capabilities in illuminators, the latest trend is toward devices combining a red dot sight with multifunction illuminators/pointers. Insight Technology’s ISM-IR combines a red dot sight with a visible and IR laser that is co-aligned with the red dot. Lasers Devices Inc. offers the EOLAD, which combines the popular EOTech red sight with a visible and IR laser. The value of these combo sight/ laser pointers is that as the operator adjusts the red dot sight to zero it he is adjusting the sight/laser to be zeroed as well. Hence, the operator may engage by placing the red dot of the sight or the red dot of the laser on the target, depending upon the tactical situation.

Most antiterrorist units today use handguns that allow the mounting of a light or laser. This Rock River Tactical 1911 has an Insight Technology M6X Tactical Laser Illuminator mounted that combines a white light and a laser in one compact package.

Units such as the Insight Technology LAM (Laser Aiming Module) were developed to give operators multiple types of illuminators in a compact package.

Although most pointers use a red laser, LaserMax, among others, offers a green laser. Generally, the green is considered more powerful. It also offers the advantage that if two operators enter a room, one with a weapon mounting a red laser and one a weapon mounting green, it is quickly apparent where each weapon is pointing if two potential targets are near each other or a target is near a hostage.

NVDs (NIGHT VISION DEVICES)

NVDs are electro-optical devices that are designed to amplify existing light. Using an image-intensifier tube, image intensifiers amplify ambient light thousands of times and display images using a phosphor display. The phosphor screen used on most NVGs (night vision goggles) is green as the human eye can differentiate more shades of green than other colors viewable on a phosphor screen. The distance at which NVGs are viable varies, based on the magnifying power of the objective lens and the strength of the image intensifier. With very high-quality NVGs, a person can be detected at 200 yards on a moonless night. Current generation NVGs available to antiterrorist units amplify available light 30,000–50,000 times. There are very versatile multi-use NVGs. The Belgian-made OIP Lightweight Night-Observation System, for example, may be used as helmet/mask mounted NVGs for driving or, by changing to a 6x lens with reticle, may be mounted on a bipod and used for surveillance/intelligence gathering. Because this system is modular it gives operators who must travel relatively lightly a lot of options.

One of the big disadvantages of NVGs is that they severely affect peripheral vision, lowering it from 180 degrees or more to about 40 degrees. As a result, operators must be trained to constantly turn their heads from side to side to scan for threats. They must also train with their NVGs constantly to counter the tendency to overestimate the distance of objects viewed through them. Training will also prepare operators for navigating through darkened buildings or carrying out surveillance of a darkened building prior to an assault.

Some Night Vision Devices are worn as a monocular, but to gain depth perception pairs worn as aligned binoculars are more effective and are true Night Vision “Goggles.” Binocular goggles may have a single lens or stereo lens. Monocular devices in some cases may be mounted ahead of telescopic sights or red dot sights to give night vision capability. Some red dot sights are specifically designed for use with night vision devices.

Also used sometimes are FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared) detectors, which sense the difference between an object and its environment. FLIR has the advantage of allowing the operator to see through fog, smoke, etc.—an advantage when clearing buildings after deploying stun or gas grenades which that create smoke and haze.

Night vision devices that are termed passive rely on available light that is magnified by the device. Active infrared devices work in conjunction with infrared illuminators that operate in a spectral range just beyond the visible spectrum of the human eye. Although antiterrorist units may use active infrared devices, since active infrared light may be detected by NVGs, they are not normally used on the battlefield.

BODY ARMOR

Members of antiterrorist units operate against dangerous criminals or terrorists as a matter of course and hence have a high likelihood of facing gunfire. As a result, ballistic protection is very important. However, operators must also be able to move quickly and climb or carry out other movements that require agility. As a result, their ballistic protection must offer a tradeoff between protection and mobility.

The ballistic vest, which protects vital organs, has normally used a combination of Kevlar inserts backed with ceramic or titanium plates to cover the most vital organs. Operators will normally have ballistic protection which reaches Level III (designed to stop fully jacketed 7.62 bullets) or Level IV (designed to stop 7.62 caliber armor piercing rounds). There is a Level V body armor, but it is designed for bomb disposal personnel and severely inhibits mobility. Kevlar and other ballistic protection materials degrade in effectiveness when wet; hence, they may have to be kept in sealed water-resistant enclosures. In an attempt to address the problem of weight versus ballistic strength, the next generation of body armor may incorporate nano technology. Some of the nano materials currently being tested can withstand shocks of up to 250 tons per square centimeter or more. Today, an array of sturdy vests which are designed to both take ballistic panels and to carry weapons and equipment are available for operators.

Those antiterrorist units, such as GIGN or RAID, that use dogs as an integral part of the unit will have ballistic vests for the dogs.

Coupled with the ballistic vest, operators will also wear a ballistic helmet and face shield. The ballistic helmet must also be designed for protection and mobility since the operator must be able to turn his head and use his peripheral vision. Currently, the best ballistic helmets being used by operators reach Threat Level IIIA (capable of stopping a .44 Magnum revolver round). The ballistic helmets used by most operators offer compatibility with communications and night vision equipment and some helmets offer compatibility with nuclear, biological, and chemical equipment. Manufacturers try to reduce the profile of the helmet enough to degrade peripheral vision as little as possible. Helmets are also designed to be compatible with the ballistic vest so that the operator can retain a full range of motion, even when prone. Although it doesn’t affect the ballistic protection of the helmet the internal pad system and an adjustable head band are very important for comfort since an operator may have to wear the helmet for an extended period while awaiting the “Go!” order. Helmets should also allow the use of a ballistic collar to protect the gap between the ballistic vest and helmet.

Along with the helmet, operators will need a compatible communications system. “Active-Ear” type ear plugs screen out the sharp sounds of a stun grenade or gunfire while still allowing an operator to hear communications from his team or command post. The ballistic face shield is designed to offer some ballistic protection—multiple hits from up to a 9x19 mm or .357 Magnum handgun—while allowing the operator to still be able to see well enough to use his weapons and move surely. Constructed from polymer bond , the ballistic face shield is designed to be compatible with standard ballistic helmets. Normally, face shield visors are designed to be locked in one of three positions: full-elevated, midlevel, and deployed to cover the face. It is important, too, that the operator be able to quickly move the shield between these positions in case the tactical situation requires him to lift the shield to check something or quickly move it to cover his face. Some units choose ballistic goggles rather than a full face shield.

A good view of the FNH P90 SMG and ballistic helmets and visors used by Portugal’s GOE (Portuguese Police)

The first operator through the door will often have a ballistic shield. Generally, the shields are designed to protect the point man but also to offer some protection to the rest of the “stack,” who may be partially exposed behind him. Shields will generally have a small porthole made from ballistic material such as that used in the ballistic face masks. Some shields will also have a built-in illumination system for use when moving into a darkened room. The operator with the shield will normally carry it with his support hand and have a handgun in his strong hand. Because a shield must be light enough for an operator to carry it with one hand, ballistic shields normally only give Threat Level IIIA protection against powerful handguns. Shields that will stop rifle ammunition are available, but they are so heavy that they are on wheels, which severely limits the mobility of the operators. Some of these shields are transparent with hydraulic controls. They may have firing ports.

Though not offering ballistic protection, knee and elbow pads are an important part of the operator’s body “armor” as well since rapid movements through doorways, into and out of vehicles, in ship’s passageways, and so on, can result in hard knocks to the joints, which could incapacitate the operator. Additionally, a Nomex fire retardant coverall and protective gloves are worn by operators for non-ballistic protection. Boots are also important and will be specially designed to protect the feet while allowing the operator to retain agility and rapid movement. Some types of boot incorporate a steel insert in the sole as some drug labs or other possible raid sites will have sharp objects strewn on approaches as booby traps. Gas masks may be worn if operating amidst an environment where gas, smoke, or chemicals are present.

ENTRY TOOLS

When an antiterrorist team is given the order to go in, it normally has to gain entry as fast as possible. Although operators may in certain circumstances carry out an explosive entry by blowing an opening through a wall or blowing a door off of its hinges, more often, they will need an array of tools especially designed to deal with doors or windows. Many operators will have been trained to pick locks and may carry a lock pick set with them. As obvious as it seems, operators must also be trained to check if doors are unlocked as they sometimes are.

The basic tools will normally include a ram, which must be heavy enough to pop a door’s lock yet compact and light enough for an operator to carry and handle it. You can generally spot the “ram man” of an entry team by looking for the largest and strongest. An alternative to the ram is a heavy-duty sledge hammer, usually with an aggressive-sounding name such as “Thor’s Hammer” or “Thundermaul.” Perhaps the most useful tool is the “Hallagan Tool,” sometimes referred to as the “Hooligan Tool,” which may be used to pry doors or carry out other operations. Hallagan Tools are generally nonconductive of electricity and flame retardant in case they are used following up a frame charge or otherwise to pry through burning materials. The other basic tool is a heavy-duty bolt cutter

These are the basic man-portable entry tools, which will usually be carried in a special backpack by one of the operators. He can quickly release the pack, or other operators can release individual tools from the pack for quick deployment. A typical entry kit carried on the back of an antiterrorist operator—the SAS has used a kit of this type—might consist of a heavy-duty bolt cutter, a ram, and a Hallagan Tool. That combo with its pack weighs 45 lb. Some alternate kits will contain a maul/heavy sledgehammer instead of the ram. Rams or mauls are generally designed to be nonconductive as well.

Members of Portugal’s GOE offer a good view of equipment as the assault up a dual ladder. Note the ballistic helmet and visor, flame-retardant balaclava, dual magazines for the HK MP5 SMGs, gun-mounted lights, and elbow pads. Note also the cover men at left and right of the ladder. (Portuguese Police)

Though not designed as an entry tool, one US Firm, TOPS—Tactical Ops USA—offers a very compact kit that is carried in a sheath on the operator’s belt. Designated the Pry Knife and PPP (Pry, Probe, Punch), it incorporates two versatile tools that an operator can use to pry some internal doors or windows, or to cut, or punch out safety glass.

Other tools that may be available include the Breaching Saw, which is on a long handle—one model is 64 inches overall—that allows an operator to safely stand back while cutting inspection holes in ceilings, sheet rock walls or other lightweight building materials. The head of the saw is fabricated of high carbon steel, and the saw is designed to be nonconductive of electricity. Another tool—sometimes called a “break and rake”—is designed for use when a team will enter through a window. This tool is designed to punch through the glass, then be raked around the window frame to remove glass shards that could injure the operator coming through the window. Many of these tools will also have a hook designed to pull blinds or curtains free and out of the window.

Operators from Spain’s GEO use a pneumatic spreader and other heavy-duty entry tools to get past a barred doorway. (Policia Nacional)

When carrying out combat boardings of ships during MAT operations or in other situations where steel doors may be encountered, operators may have cutting torches/thermal lances or power saws. Doors may be opened, too, with a spreader-cutter, a device with blades that may be wedged into a seam or gap between a door and its facing. A hydraulic pump then pushes the blades apart with great force. Once this seam has been widened, the cutter portion of the tool may be used to cut a wider opening. The spreader-cutter and many other breaching tools were originally developed for fire or rescue personnel but work well for assault teams as well. Other powerful tools are available, but they are not portable and require more time to deploy.

To effectively use these tools during a rescue, operators must have had a chance to practice with them so that they learn the proper place to hit a door or how to quickly pry a door open. As a result, antiterrorist teams often find a construction company that tears down structures, and will arrange to go in just before a building is demolished to practice removing doors or windows.

Another aid to gaining entry is a fence climber designed to allow an operator fully loaded with equipment to quickly scale a fence. The assault ladder, which is a light weight telescoping ladder that weighs only 20–25 lb yet may be telescoped from 2.5 ft to 12.5 ft allows operators to quickly approach a building window, a train or bus window, or aircraft doors. For combat boarding of ships, teams have what is usually termed a “hook-and-pull” ladder, which incorporates a long pole with a hook to affix to a ship’s rail. Once it is attached, a boarding ladder may be deployed. Other highly sophisticated ladders may be attached to vehicles and will be discussed later in the section on team vehicles. Some units have tested a climbing system based on suction pads that affix to the hands and feet. Another aid to scaling walls is the grapnel, which in some cases may be launched by a grapnel launcher.

One of the specialized entry tools developed for antiterrorist teams; this one is a “break and rake” type designed to break out windows, rake them clear of glass, and pull out blinds or window frames.

Antiterrorist teams will be trained in explosive entry and will have available prefabricated frame charges and LINEX, a flexible tubular explosive that may be molded to fit the point of placement. They will also use stun or distraction grenades during entries, some of which separate into multiple submunitions that will help to confuse terrorists even more.

SEARCH AND SURVEILLANCE EQUIPMENT

The most basic item of search and surveillance equipment for the antiterrorist operator is normally a small folding mirror that can be used to check around corners or doors or over windowsills. A more sophisticated version employs a pole mounted camera and sometimes a microphone, which may be thrust through doorways or over windowsills. When used by an entry team, some pole mounted cameras send their images to a small monitor mounted on the back of the point man who wields the pole. This enables other members of the team to see what’s ahead and allows the point man to be ready to engage a threat should it emerge. Some pole mounted cameras employ fiber optics, which even allows them to be thrust under doors. An interesting recent development is the Tactical Mirror Sight,which employs a small folding mirror mounted in conjunction with an EOTech sight to allow an operator to thrust his carbine around a corner to check for the enemy and to effectively engage the enemy without ever having to expose himself.

Operators from Italy’s COMSUBIN naval antiterrorist unit carry out an approach to a building prior to an assault with their HK MP5 MSGs at the ready—note the lights mounted and the holographic sights. (Marina Militare)

Various other types of search and surveillance equipment may be employed based upon the tactical situation. Some units will place cameras and microphones around an incident site so that they may constantly monitor activity and so that the unit commander can see what is going on from all angles. Surveillance teams may also train parabolic microphones toward the incident site to gather intelligence. Laser microphones may be aimed at windows to pick up sound vibrations that may be understood. (Note that weather and other conditions can adversely affect laser microphones.) Frequently, operators will infiltrate near to or even into a building where hostages are being held to place surveillance microphones. Operators at the Nord Ost Theater incident in Moscow and at Prince’s Gate among others placed clandestine microphones.

An interesting innovation that allows operators to check around corners and engage without exposing themselves is the Tactical Mirror Sight, which is mated with an EOTech.

Infrared surveillance cameras may be installed as well. Using thermal imaging, terrorists and hostages may be observed at night. Skilled operators may even be able to sort out terrorists from hostages by the “cold” silhouette of the weapon against the “hot” silhouette of the terrorist. Some current systems using microwave radar may be used through walls, ceilings, or floors. These systems can also determine on which side of a wall a subject may be located as well as the composition of interior walls (i.e. where studs are located). Some of these systems, such as the Camero Xaver 400, weigh only 6.5 lb and maybe easily carried and held against a wall—using two handles that are incorporated—by an operator.

GPS satellite tracking equipment maybe used on suspected terrorist vehicles to track them and, perhaps, stop them before they perform an act of terrorism. GPS tracking may also be used on vehicles supplied to terrorists as part of negotiations during an incident. Many vehicles now have tracking systems built in that may be used should terrorists hijack a bus or truck with internal tracking.

Today, many antiterrorist units will have access to an array of drones carrying cameras and other surveillance devices and capable of infiltrating near a terrorist target quite unobtrusively where they can gather real time intelligence. Some such as the Sikorsky Dragon Warrior are mini VTOLs with a daylight camera, FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared), and a laser designator. Many countries offer some design of small UAV. The USA produces more than a dozen different types. Versions using pusher engines are available as are mini-helicopters. Some are even armed and may be used to take out a high-value terrorist target if acquired!

One reason that major antiterrorist units have technical specialists assigned is that computer and surveillance technology advance at such a rapid rate that it’s difficult for operators who must train in so many other skills to stay current. The technical specialist can attend all of the high tech trade shows and carry out tests to determine which devices will provide the operators with the ability to locate the terrorists, divine their intent, then counter them.

VEHICLES

Antiterrorist units normally have an extensive fleet of specialized vehicles to fit different missions. Among these will normally be a group of fast sedans, normally of local manufacture if the country has an auto industry. Hence, German units are likely to have Mercedes, the British Rovers, the French Peugeots, etc. These vehicles will likely have police performance packages and sophisticated communications equipment and are designed to get operators to an incident scene as rapidly as possible. Units such as GIGN that use dogs will have vehicles suitable for transporting the animals as well. Teams that sometimes perform the VIP protection function will likely have one or more armored limos and possibly a CAT (Counter Assault Team) vehicle that will have a rear facing seat for a tail gunner, possibly a mount for a light machinegun, and other special features.

Teams will also have all-terrain SUV-type vehicles capable of hauling half a dozen or more operators plus basic equipment. In some cases, these vehicles will have high-performance packages and communications equipment and can replace the high-performance sedan.

Many teams will have a specialized SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) van that is configured to fit the team’s needs. Although some SWAT vans may be used to transport operators, they are best suited for carrying the wide array of equipment likely to be needed to deal with an incident—breaching tools, including those needed for explosive breaching, communication equipment, surveillance equipment, extra weapons and ammunition, less lethal munitions, medical kits, winches, and so on. Some SWAT vans are equipped to operate as a mobile command center for the team leader. Others may be equipped to serve the negotiators.

Some teams also have one or more light armored vehicles to insert teams near to an active shooter or evacuate wounded citizens or operators under fire. Normally, these are wheeled rather than tracked vehicles and are of the armored car/APC (Armored Personnel Carrier) type. They may be armed with machineguns and often will have a ram that may be used to take down doors. Some are also equipped to insert CS gas.

In addition, major antiterrorist teams will also have one or more SUVs or vans fitted out with a ladder or ramp system that is designed to insert personnel directly into second- or third-story windows, buses, trains, or aircraft. The ladder/ramp kit will generally be installed on a heavy-duty SUV or van fitted with high-performance options. One of the most widely used systems can carry nine fully equipped operators ready for insertion.

Although many of these vehicles will be built within the unit’s home country, two U.S. packages that are widely exported offer good examples of this type of system.

The MARS (Mobile Adjustable Ramp System) incorporates:

1. Perimeter Breach Ramp, comprising a 15-ft mechanically operated ramp
2. Evacuation Stairway consisting of a folding stairway that may be deployed in 30 seconds for use on aircraft or multistory buildings
3. Observer/Sniper Bench, which can carry a sniper and/or observer and may be adjusted to offer the best surveillance or shooting position.
4. Ladder Turret, which may be rotated to properly align a ladder for an assault
5. Tactical Ladder of either 8 ft or 12 ft, which may be quickly deployed to insert operators.

GIGN operators along with their ramped vehicle used for various types of assault. A helicopter of the type used by GIGN for insertions is overhead. (Gendarmerie Nationale)

The MARS system may incorporate armored panels to protect operators during an approach and may be fitted to an armored SUV or van to protect the driver against fire. The advantage of a vehicle system such as MARS is that it allows operators to be inserted for an assault very quickly above ground level. Another widely used system is RAID (Rescue, Access, Interdiction, Deployment), which incorporates the following features:

1. 3 Configurations—flat for an 8 or 12 ft elevation, Gooseneck for a level platform, or 18 ft fully elevated
2. RTS (Rear Tactical Step), which can be used for entry or exit from the ramp system but can also carry operators ready to jump off at some point during the approach.
3. Side Deployment Rail, which may be used for access to alleys or other confined areas.
4. SAS (Side Assault System), which can be configured to either side of the vehicle depending upon the tactical situation. Armor may be added to protect the operators.

The vehicle carrying either of these systems will likely be a 4x4, armored, with heavy-duty suspension. It will often have retractable running boards to allow operators to ride ready for a quick drop off.

HELICOPTERS

All antiterrorist units have helicopter support, though few have the helicopter assets as an integral part of the unit. Normally, there is a portion of the Army, Air Force, Naval, or Police air service that trains with the antiterrorist unit and is designated as their air support.

The most obvious mission for helicopters in antiterrorist ops is to move the unit from its base to the site of the incident. If operators are practicing an assault on a site and the situation turns bad, the helicopters can quickly return them to support those unit members left as an alert “Go Team.” Most units, in fact, have helicopters on standby at the nearest air base for such movement. Some major units also have fixed wing transport aircraft available as well. However, helicopters serve myriad other purposes. After rescuing hostages, for example, helicopters can quickly move them to safety or to a medical facility. In many cases, special operations helicopters will not be used but instead medical evacuation choppers will be called in. However, if operating in a hostile environment, then the helicopters assigned to the antiterrorist unit may carry out an evacuation as well as extracting the operators.

Helicopters may also be used as part of the actual assault on a site. They can insert operators onto a roof or on nearby rooftops. Operators can fast rope directly onto the roof or balcony or other possible entry point. In MAT operations, helicopters can come in low behind the vessel to avoid detection, then flare up to allow operators to fast rope onto the deck to seize the ship. Since many of these assaults will take place at night, pilots must be skilled at flying using night vision goggles. In some cases, helicopters may be used to create a distraction by flying overhead or landing nearby.

Helicopters may also be used as a sniper platform. When carrying out the combat boarding of a ship, a support helicopter on each side with trained snipers can prevent crew members from engaging the operators who are fast roping onto deck. Helicopter-borne snipers may also be used against vehicles transporting terrorists or dangerous materials. In some situations, such as an incident in a high-rise building, snipers in helicopters may offer the best chance of taking out a terrorist without assault. Whether carrying snipers or not, helicopters offer an excellent source of intelligence. In MAT operations, for example, the helicopters carrying the snipers can also guide members of the assault team and warn them of possible dangers.

In a hostile environment where operators must evacuate the area under fire, helicopters can provide fire support using an array of guns and rockets. Prior to an assault on a compound containing hostages, gun ships may also be used to eliminate guard towers, armored cars, and such like, or attack nearby barracks to keep troops from reinforcing guards during the actual rescue mission.

The Osprey aircraft has great potential for use by special operations and antiterrorist forces. (USAF)

To perform these myriad missions and others, helicopters will have to be specially configured. Secure attachment points for fast roping must be rigged inside the helicopter and reinforced skids on which the operators stand just prior to fast roping must be incorporated. (Note: To keep the helicopter balanced, operators will fast rope from both sides of smaller helicopters simultaneously.) Specialized shooting seats or harnesses will be incorporated for helicopters that may carry snipers. Some special ops helicopters will also incorporate bench seats so that operators can ride along the side of the chopper ready to quickly deploy onto a rooftop or elsewhere. On the U.S. 160th SOAR (Special Operations Aviation Regiment) MJH-6 Little Birds, fold down bench seats are incorporated on each side for such usage.

Helicopters assigned for antiterrorist missions and other special ops, must be designed for flying at night and in adverse weather conditions. Their electronics will include FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared) and in some cases, warning radar to alert the crew if targeted my by enemy surface-to air-weapons. An Air Launched Expendable Countermeasures Dispenser may be incorporated to launch chaff or flares if a SAM launch is determined. Some larger special ops helicopters will be capable of being airily refueled for long- range missions.

The U.S. 160th SOAR uses three main types of helicopters. The two types of “Little BIrds,” the MJH-6, for insertions of a small group of operators directly onto an objective and the AH-6 as a gunship armed with 7.62 mm Mini-Guns and, normally, 2.75-inch rockets. The AH-6 may also be armed with AGM-Hellfire missiles, .50 machineguns, or MK19 automatic grenade launchers. 160th SOAR Blackhawk helicopters include the MH-60K, which is a special ops utility chopper; the MH-60L, also known as a DAP (Direct Action Penetrator),which is designed to carry out fire missions or act as aerial gun support to other 160th SOAR helicopters using a 30mm chain gun and M134D Gatling Guns; and the MH47D or MH47E Chinook, which can carry a substantial number of operators. The MH47D is designated as an “Adverse Weather Cockpit” version and is designed to operate in severe weather conditions. The MH47D has various other features configured for anti-terrorism/special ops. For the CSAR (Combat Search and Rescue) mission it is fitted with the PLS (Personnel Locator System) for finding downed aircrews. It also employs the FRIES (Fast Rope, Insertion Extraction System) for inserting or extracting operators quickly. The MH47D incorporates an internal rescue hoist with 600-lb capacity to allow extraction of injured operators or others.

A U.S. aircraft that offers many options for the antiterrorist unit is the V-22 Osprey which can combine the functions of a transport helicopter and transport fixed wing aircraft using VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) technology. It can hover to insert or extract operators but can also fly at speeds much faster than a Blackhawk helicopter while carrying 24 operators plus crew. The Osprey also incorporates some armament for suppressing ground fire.

Many allied countries use some of the same basic helicopters as the 160th SOAR, though normally without the most sophisticated equipment. Others use their own choppers. The French use the Puma to insert operators and as a gunship. They also use the Cougar HUS (Hélicoptère d’Unité Spéciale) and the Gazelle. The Russians use the Mi-8 HIP as their heavy helicopter as well as other Russian models such as the Kamov Ka-52 gunship or versions of the Hind, which can function as a combined troop carrier and gunship

Just as the USA has the 160th SOAR other countries have specially trained helicopter units for antiterrorist and special ops mission. The French unit is the EHS (Escadrille Des Hélicoptères Spéciaux). This unit is assigned to COS, which is the French equivalent of the U.S. SOCOM (Special Operations Command). Italian special ops helicopters are within the 26th Helicopter Squadron. The RAF Special Forces Flight provides helicopter support for British antiterrorist units. Others include the Jordanian Special Operations Helicopter Squadron, Philippine 740th Combat Group, and Republic of Korea 259th Special Ops Squadron.

BOATS AND OTHER CRAFT

Practically every antiterrorist unit has some waterborne capability even if it does not have the MAT mission. Of course, units such as the SBS, DevGru, Delphin, and Commando Hubert will have a wider array of small special operations craft from which to choose. The smallest craft will be intended to insert a couple of operators soundlessly along a shore or river bank while the largest craft normally used by an antiterrorist unit will be able to carry a full team plus give fire support if needed.

The most basic boat used for special operations is probably the kayak. Those used for special operations are foldable with a skin that’s over a wood, aluminum, or fiberglass frame. Hulls are usually of a coated synthetic fiber and decks of similar material or a cotton/hemp blend as with Kleppers. Although one usually thinks of operators paddling kayaks to their objective some are equipped with small motors. Among the manufacturers that have supplied boats for antiterrorist/special ops units are Klepper, Folbot, Long Haul, and Nautiraid. Kayaks may normally be transported in a couple of bags and are known for their extreme durability even in rough seas.

What can generically be called the CRRC (Combat Rubber Raiding Craft) may be the most widely used special ops craft among non-specialized combat swimmer units. Often known as “Zodiacs” from their best-known manufacturer, CRRCs are designed to be inflated in a couple of minutes from a foot pump, compressor, or CO2 tank. They may be launched from various types of vehicles, including specially equipped submarines or from the shore, or they may be dropped from helicopters or aircraft. U.S. Navy SEALs have experimented with driving them directly from or onto helicopters hovering with their tail gates just below water, though this techniques requires a great deal of training. CRRCs can cover quite a bit of sea quickly, often using a 40–55 horsepower two-stroke engine and carrying up to ten operators. For clandestine approach, oars may be used once close to the objective. Operationally, CRRCs normally carry six operators plus two coxswains, who may also be operators, plus equipment. Empty weight on a typical CRRC is around 320 lb, which allows a team to easily carry it ashore and camouflage it.

Slightly larger RHIBs (Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat) or RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boat) may operate in heavier seas and attain a speed of up to 45 knots. The latest RHIB used by U.S. Naval Special Warfare personnel is powered by a 470 horsepower engine and has a 200 nautical mile range with the standard fuel load. The RHIB’s shallow draft—just under 3 ft-—allows it to be used close to the shore and for riverine operations in very shallow rivers. The RHIB can carry more personnel and can also have light weapons mounted for support. When modified for such insertions, it may be airdropped into the sea. The most widely used RHIB has an overall length of 36 ft as opposed to about 15.5 ft for a CRRC.

The U.S. Navy’s Special Boat Teams have craft that can operate on rivers or close to the shore to insert SEALs on raiding or antiterrorist missions and support them with firepower. (USN)

Even more sophisticated boats are just coming into service. The new Zodiac Hurricane MACH 2, for example, is capable of speeds of up to 60 knots and can carry 12 operators plus 2 pilots. Because of its high speed, it incorporates shock absorbing seats and other technology to make the ride smoother. Despite its 900 horsepower, provided by 3,300 horsepower outboard engines, the MACH 2 is surprisingly quiet.

The PBL (Patrol Boat Light), sometimes designated the Boston Whaler, is a 25-foot craft with a speed of 30 knots. It can mount .50 caliber or 7.62 mm machineguns. The foam core and fiberglass construction lends itself particularly well to special ops usage since it is so durable and survivable.

Among larger craft used for antiterrorist ops are those that fall into the type of the MkV SOC (Special Operations Craft). Designed to transport 5 crew members plus 16 operators, the MkV can travel at up to 50 nautical miles per hour and has a range of 500–600 miles. The MkV may be used to get operators close to their objective, then launch them in CRRCs, of which it can carry four. The MkV has a ramp that allows the craft to ride directly onto the boat during a quick extraction. A MkV SOC may be transported by a large aircraft such as a C-5 or aboard the deck of a larger ship. The MkV may be fitted with an array of sophisticated electronics and communication equipment and has five mounting points for weapons. These mounting points may be used for a combo of M-2 .50 caliber heavy MGs, M240 7.62 mm MGs, M60 7.62 mm MGs, or Mk19 40 mm automatic grenade launchers. The MkV SOC is very fast and also harder to track than many fast boats, which makes it effective for operations close to the coast.

Specialist combat swimmer units with MAT missions may also use a swimmer delivery system such as the U.S. Navy’s SDV (SEAL/Swimmer Delivery System) or ASDS (Advanced Seal Delivery System). Designed to silently let combat swimmers approach an objective underwater after launch from a submerged submarine, the MkVIII SDV (SEAL/Swimmer Delivery System), forerunner to the ASDS, has an onboard breathing system with masks containing communication equipment so that operators can talk with each other while aboard the vehicle. The Mk VIII also has a sophisticated Doppler navigation system that allows operators to steer to their objective quite precisely while submerged. The MkVIII will carry six operators at a depth of up to 500 ft at twice the speed of a skilled combat swimmer. The MkVIII is what is termed a “wet system,” meaning that the operators are still exposed to the water while riding the SDV. The current generation ASDS, on the other hand, is actually a mini-submarine that allows the combat swimmers to stay dry during transport. The Russians have their own swimmer delivery systems as do a few other countries. Some U.S. allies have purchased systems from the U.S. including some of the predecessor SDVs to the MkVIII. The term SDV designating “Swimmer Delivery Vehicle” has become somewhat generic and many countries make variations. Among those producing some type of underwater transport for combat swimmers are: Croatia (the Velebit midget sub), Germany (the Orca), Italy (Chariot, used by COMSUBIN but also combat divers in India, Argentina, and Egypt among others), and Russia (the Protei-5 single swimmer vehicle). Various countries also make mini-submarines for use by combat special ops personnel.

A combat swimmer from Italy’s COMSUBIN prepares to engage a target with his Colt carbine as he comes ashore. (Marina Militare)

A GIGN operator in full combat swimmer gear. (Gendarmerie Nationale)

It should be mentioned that combat swimmers or antiterrorist unit divers will use a SCUBA system for approaches involving a relatively long swim underwater, though they are also trained to use snorkels, which limit their depth to just below the surface. Most antiterrorist/special ops swimmers will use closed circuit SCUBA gear that does not give off bubbles that may identify the position of the swimmer. Widely used around the world is the Austrian Draeger closed-circuit system. Using mixed gases, this system recycles the “air” after the diver breathes out to scrub the CO2 from it so it may be reused. Using a closed circuit system a trained diver may remain submerged without detection for up to four hours. Note that there are rebreather systems designed for shallow water and those for deeper waters. Units operating primarily in lakes or rivers will likely choose the shallower water systems. Other rebreathers for deep operations are very sophisticated and may include an electronic controlled mixed gas system as well as a buoyancy control system. The Stealth Divex used by the SBS is a good example of deep rebreather systems usable to a depth of 100 meters.

U.S. Navy combat swimmers leave a submarine aboard an SDV (SEAL delivery vehicle). (USN)

Special submersible headsets are available for combat swimmers, which may be used while approaching the shore or once the operation begins.

Units may well have other forms of transport for insertion of operators over the water. The Subskimmer, which can operate as a fast surface craft or operate submerged, offers versatility for some units. Other units have used the Jet Ski as a method to quickly insert operators onto a shore. Virtually any type of transport that can be used to insert an operator onto a shoreline or target vessel has probably been tested by one or more units.