Irish Army Rangers
Encyclopedia
The Army Ranger Wing is the special forces
unit of the Irish Defence Forces
.
The ARW trains and operates with many international special operations units worldwide, including the US Army Rangers
, Delta Force
, French GIGN
, German GSG 9
, Polish GROM
, Swedish SSG
, Italian COMSUBIN
, Australian SAS
, New Zealand SAS
, and Canadian
Joint Task Force 2 among others.
The Army Ranger Wing is Ireland
's premier hostage rescue unit, and trains closely with the specialised firearms service of An Garda Síochána (known as the Emergency Response Unit
or ERU). In any major hostage incident the Ranger Wing could be requested to support the ERU.
In the late 1960s and early 1970s a small number of Irish Defence Forces personnel attended the United States Army Ranger
School
at Fort Benning
, Georgia, USA. On their return, these personnel organised similar courses with the goal of bringing standards of training throughout the Irish Defence Forces into line with accepted international standards. The first course was conducted in the Military College in the Curragh Army Camp in 1969 with 12 officer students. Students on these courses were selected from among all ranks and units of the Army
, Air Corps
and the Naval Service
and covered physical endurance, marksmanship, individual military skills and small unit tactics.
Formalising these standards and creation of the Army Ranger Wing resulted from the increase in international terrorism in the late 1970s and 1980s. The increased skills and endurance training of 'Ranger'-trained personnel provided the basis for the creation of a new specialist unit to counter these threats. The Army Ranger Wing (ARW) was formally established, in accordance with the Defence Act, by Government order on March 16, 1980.
as "Army Ranger Wing".
"Fiannóglach" (representing "Ranger") is an amalgamation of two words. "Fiann" is closest to the English word "warrior", and refers to the ancient band of warriors known as Na Fianna
in Irish Mythology
. "Óglach" (literally 'young hero') means "soldier" and refers to the name of the Defence Forces in Irish: Óglaigh na hÉireann
. Na Fianna were purportedly expert warriors, so the addition of the word Fian- before Oglaigh denotes an elite element to the wing.
warfare and training for the Defence Forces including:
In the first phase, instructors demonstrate the basic requirements to become a Ranger and candidates must pass a number of initial physical tests - including: water confidence training, assault course training, individual navigation
tests as well as a 10 km combat run test. If a candidate fails more than 3 out of the 9 basic tests they are returned to their home unit. A selection course may only be attempted three times by any candidate.
In the second phase, candidates are taught special forces tactics such as long range reconnaissance
patrolling, surveillance, intelligence gathering, search tactics, and ambush organisation. The course culminates in a 45 km group march which must be completed in a set time.
In all, candidates must complete assessment in the following areas:
Of the 40 to 80 candidates that start the annual Ranger selection course, only 15% remain at the conclusion. All candidates who successfully complete the Ranger course are presented with the Fianóglach shoulder flash.
If a student passes selection at this stage, they are sent on a further six-month ranger skills course. This course includes long range reconnaissance
and survival training, unarmed combat, counter-terrorism
, close protection, combat diving, boat handling, sniping
, explosive intervention, advance navigation, and close quarters combat skills, advanced first aid
, advanced combat shooting and parachuting
. Upon passing this selection course and probationary period they then earn the right to wear the prestigious Green beret
Some parts of the combat diving training course are done under the supervision of the Naval Service's Naval Service Diving Section.
The ARW also has its own purpose built tactical training facility, including "shoot houses", training ranges and various urban settings. The facility is known as "Tac town".
The Officer Commanding the Army Ranger Wing is responsible for the administrative, disciplinary and operational control of the unit, and is in turn directly under the command of The Chief of Staff at Defence Forces HQ. The Army Ranger Wing is on immediate call for operations throughout the state.
The ARW is equipped with state-of-the-art ITT SINCGAR
, RACAL
and Harris
communications equipment, all of which have an inbuilt encryption
and frequency hopping systems. It is also equipped with satellite communications.
The Army Rangers have seen active service in a number of peacekeeping missions around the world with the UN
and EU
and PfP
.
following the Second Liberian Civil War
as part of a peace-keeping contingent of more than 400 troops from the Irish Defence Forces
, in turn part of the mixed Irish/Swedish Force Reserve Battalion of the United Nations mission in the country, UNMIL.
One of their most successful missions during this deployment was the rescue of a group of civilians captured by gunmen from renegade Liberian forces. Acting on intelligence, twenty heavily armed Rangers were dropped by helicopter at the town of Gbapa. To avoid casualties among the hostages, the Rangers implemented a policy of non-lethal intervention and, after surrounding a 40-foot container holding the 35 hostages, rescued them and captured the rebel commander. The incident, which resulted in no Irish casualties, boosted the reputation of the Irish Defence Forces.
One Ranger, Sergeant Derek Mooney of Dublin, was killed when his jeep was involved in a road accident.
voted to send the ARW to serve with the United Nations International Force, East Timor
(INTERFET). Mandated under a UN Security Council
resolution, INTERFET was a peacekeeping force deployed to restore security in the region, support and protect the UN Mission in East Timor, and to facilitate humanitarian assistance operations. The detachment of 30 ARW personnel was involved in peacekeeping duties with Canadian and New Zealand troops near the West Timor border.
as part of the peacekeeping European Union Force (EUFOR TCHAD/RCA)
. The ARW arrived on 19 February 2008 and completed reconnaissance missions to select a mission base for the Irish Defence Force deployment (later named "Camp Ciara").
Special forces
Special forces, or special operations forces are terms used to describe elite military tactical teams trained to perform high-risk dangerous missions that conventional units cannot perform...
unit of the Irish Defence Forces
Irish Defence Forces
The armed forces of Ireland, known as the Defence Forces encompass the Army, Naval Service, Air Corps and Reserve Defence Force.The current Supreme Commander of the Irish Defence forces is His Excellency Michael D Higgins in his role as President of Ireland...
.
The ARW trains and operates with many international special operations units worldwide, including the US Army Rangers
75th Ranger Regiment (United States)
The 75th Ranger Regiment , also known as Rangers, is a Special Operations light infantry unit of the United States Army. The Regiment is headquartered in Fort Benning, Georgia with battalions in Fort Benning, Hunter Army Airfield and Joint Base Lewis-McChord...
, Delta Force
Delta Force
1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta is one of the United States' secretive Tier One counter-terrorism and Special Mission Units. Commonly known as Delta Force, Delta, or The Unit, it was formed under the designation 1st SFOD-D, and is officially referred to by the Department of Defense...
, French GIGN
Groupe d'Intervention de la Gendarmerie Nationale
The National Gendarmerie Intervention Group, commonly abbreviated GIGN , is a special operations unit of the French Armed Forces. It is part of the National Gendarmerie and is trained to perform counter-terrorist and hostage rescue missions in France or anywhere else in the world.The GIGN was...
, German GSG 9
GSG 9
The GSG 9 der Bundespolizei , is the elite counter-terrorism and special operations unit of the German Federal Police.-History and name:...
, Polish GROM
GROM
GROM is one of five special forces units of the Polish Armed Forces. It was officially activated on July 8, 1990...
, Swedish SSG
Särskilda Skyddsgruppen
Särskilda Skyddsgruppen is a special operations unit of the Swedish military which became active in 1994. The exact number of operatives is classified but is thought to be between 60 and 80, with an average age of 31...
, Italian COMSUBIN
Italian commando frogmen
COMSUBIN is the elite combat frogman force and one of the Italian special forces....
, Australian SAS
Australian Special Air Service Regiment
The Special Air Service Regiment, officially abbreviated SASR but commonly known as the SAS, is a special forces unit of the Australian Army...
, New Zealand SAS
Special Air Service of New Zealand
The New Zealand Special Air Service was formed on 7 July 1955 and is a special forces unit of the New Zealand Army modelled on the British Special Air Service . The New Zealand Government states that NZ SAS is the "premier combat unit of the New Zealand Defence Force". Its key roles are to...
, and Canadian
Canadian Forces
The Canadian Forces , officially the Canadian Armed Forces , are the unified armed forces of Canada, as constituted by the National Defence Act, which states: "The Canadian Forces are the armed forces of Her Majesty raised by Canada and consist of one Service called the Canadian Armed Forces."...
Joint Task Force 2 among others.
The Army Ranger Wing is Ireland
Republic of Ireland
Ireland , described as the Republic of Ireland , is a sovereign state in Europe occupying approximately five-sixths of the island of the same name. Its capital is Dublin. Ireland, which had a population of 4.58 million in 2011, is a constitutional republic governed as a parliamentary democracy,...
's premier hostage rescue unit, and trains closely with the specialised firearms service of An Garda Síochána (known as the Emergency Response Unit
Emergency Response Unit (Garda)
The Emergency Response Unit of the Garda Síochána is a specialist armed intervention unit under the Special Detective Unit, formed to deal with situations that cannot be handled by regular Garda officers.-History:...
or ERU). In any major hostage incident the Ranger Wing could be requested to support the ERU.
History
United States Army Rangers
United States Army Rangers are elite members of the United States Army. Rangers have served in recognized U.S. Army Ranger units or have graduated from the U.S. Army's Ranger School...
School
Ranger School
The United States Army Ranger School is an intense 61-day combat leadership course oriented towards small-unit tactics. It has been called the "toughest combat course in the world" and "is the most physically and mentally demanding leadership school the Army has to offer". The course is conducted...
at Fort Benning
Fort Benning
Fort Benning is a United States Army post located southeast of the city of Columbus in Muscogee and Chattahoochee counties in Georgia and Russell County, Alabama...
, Georgia, USA. On their return, these personnel organised similar courses with the goal of bringing standards of training throughout the Irish Defence Forces into line with accepted international standards. The first course was conducted in the Military College in the Curragh Army Camp in 1969 with 12 officer students. Students on these courses were selected from among all ranks and units of the Army
Irish Army
The Irish Army, officially named simply the Army is the main branch of the Defence Forces of Ireland. Approximately 8,500 men and women serve in the Irish Army, divided into three infantry Brigades...
, Air Corps
Irish Air Corps
The Air Corps is the air component of the Defence Forces of Ireland providing support to the Army and Naval Service, together with non-military air services such as search and rescue and the Ministerial Air Transport Service...
and the Naval Service
Irish Naval Service
The Naval Service is the navy of Ireland and is one of the three standing branches of the Irish Defence Forces. Its main base is in Haulbowline, County Cork....
and covered physical endurance, marksmanship, individual military skills and small unit tactics.
Formalising these standards and creation of the Army Ranger Wing resulted from the increase in international terrorism in the late 1970s and 1980s. The increased skills and endurance training of 'Ranger'-trained personnel provided the basis for the creation of a new specialist unit to counter these threats. The Army Ranger Wing (ARW) was formally established, in accordance with the Defence Act, by Government order on March 16, 1980.
Name
The unit's official name is "Sciathán Fiannóglach an Airm", which roughly translates into EnglishEnglish language
English is a West Germanic language that arose in the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms of England and spread into what was to become south-east Scotland under the influence of the Anglian medieval kingdom of Northumbria...
as "Army Ranger Wing".
"Fiannóglach" (representing "Ranger") is an amalgamation of two words. "Fiann" is closest to the English word "warrior", and refers to the ancient band of warriors known as Na Fianna
Fianna
Fianna were small, semi-independent warrior bands in Irish mythology and Scottish mythology, most notably in the stories of the Fenian Cycle, where they are led by Fionn mac Cumhaill....
in Irish Mythology
Irish mythology
The mythology of pre-Christian Ireland did not entirely survive the conversion to Christianity, but much of it was preserved, shorn of its religious meanings, in medieval Irish literature, which represents the most extensive and best preserved of all the branch and the Historical Cycle. There are...
. "Óglach" (literally 'young hero') means "soldier" and refers to the name of the Defence Forces in Irish: Óglaigh na hÉireann
Óglaigh na hÉireann
Óglaigh na hÉireann , abbreviated ÓnaÉ, is an Irish language idiom that can be translated variously as soldiers of Ireland, warriors of Ireland, volunteers of Ireland or Irish volunteers...
. Na Fianna were purportedly expert warriors, so the addition of the word Fian- before Oglaigh denotes an elite element to the wing.
Roles
The ARW has a wide variety of roles, covering conventional warfare, anti-terroristCounter-terrorism
Counter-terrorism is the practices, tactics, techniques, and strategies that governments, militaries, police departments and corporations adopt to prevent or in response to terrorist threats and/or acts, both real and imputed.The tactic of terrorism is available to insurgents and governments...
warfare and training for the Defence Forces including:
- Offensive Operations behind enemy lines, e.g. Securing of vital objectives, Long Range Patrolling - Raids - Ambushes - Sabotage, Capture of key personnel, Diversionary Operations, Delay operations, intelligence gathering.
- Defensive Operations, e.g. VIP Protection, Counter-insurgency.
- Specialist Aid to the Civil Power (Anti-Terrorist Tasks), Anti hijacking operations, Bus, plane, train, ferry. Hostage rescue operations.
- Standards, e.g. Testing and evaluation of military equipment, conducting specialist courses.
- Returning highly skilled personnel to the Defence Forces on completion of service in the ARW.
Training and selection
Selection for the ranger wing lasts 3 weeks, plus on success of completion, another 6 months continuation where basic skills such as LRRP, parachuting are taught - which takes place annually, usually in October. Course candidates must be serving members of the Defence Forces, but are not subject to an age limit. The 3 week course is organised into 2 distinct phases. Selection is open to females, although none have passed the initial training course. Any and all serving personnel from the three branches of the Irish military are allowed to enter.In the first phase, instructors demonstrate the basic requirements to become a Ranger and candidates must pass a number of initial physical tests - including: water confidence training, assault course training, individual navigation
Navigation
Navigation is the process of monitoring and controlling the movement of a craft or vehicle from one place to another. It is also the term of art used for the specialized knowledge used by navigators to perform navigation tasks...
tests as well as a 10 km combat run test. If a candidate fails more than 3 out of the 9 basic tests they are returned to their home unit. A selection course may only be attempted three times by any candidate.
In the second phase, candidates are taught special forces tactics such as long range reconnaissance
Reconnaissance
Reconnaissance is the military term for exploring beyond the area occupied by friendly forces to gain information about enemy forces or features of the environment....
patrolling, surveillance, intelligence gathering, search tactics, and ambush organisation. The course culminates in a 45 km group march which must be completed in a set time.
In all, candidates must complete assessment in the following areas:
- AbseilingAbseilingAbseiling , rappelling in American English, is the controlled descent down a rock face using a rope; climbers use this technique when a cliff or slope is too steep and/or dangerous to descend without protection.- Slang terms :...
- Assesses a student's confidence when working at height. - Bridge jump - Tests confidence in water.
- River crossing - Evaluates ability to work in a team.
- ClaustrophobiaClaustrophobiaClaustrophobia is the fear of having no escape and being closed in small spaces or rooms...
- Tests a student's ability to work with their equipment in confined spaces. - Gym tests - Assesses muscular endurance and strength while performing a set number of exercises.
- 10 km run - Tests cardiovascularCirculatory systemThe circulatory system is an organ system that passes nutrients , gases, hormones, blood cells, etc...
enduranceEndurance trainingEndurance training is the deliberate act of exercising to increase stamina and endurance. Exercises for endurance tends to be aerobic in nature versus anaerobic movements. Aerobic exercise develops slow twitch muscles...
over a set distance and time. - Mountain walk - Tests endurance over a set uphill march, while carrying a medium load.
- Hill circuit - Assesses stamina and strength over a set cross-country course, while carrying a light load.
- Forced march "cross-country" - Assesses stamina and strength over a set cross-country course and time while carrying a medium load around 15 kg.
- Forced march "road" - A group test to assess the student's tolerance of pressure over a set course and time, while carrying a medium load, the distance is between 35–40 km.
- Route march - A group test to assess overall stamina, endurance and strength during a forced march over the mountains while carrying a medium load.
Of the 40 to 80 candidates that start the annual Ranger selection course, only 15% remain at the conclusion. All candidates who successfully complete the Ranger course are presented with the Fianóglach shoulder flash.
If a student passes selection at this stage, they are sent on a further six-month ranger skills course. This course includes long range reconnaissance
Long range penetration
A Long-range penetration patrol, group, or force is a special forces military unit able to remain in and move long distances behind enemy lines far away from direct contact with friendly forces as opposed to Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol a small group engaged in scouting missions...
and survival training, unarmed combat, counter-terrorism
Counter-terrorism
Counter-terrorism is the practices, tactics, techniques, and strategies that governments, militaries, police departments and corporations adopt to prevent or in response to terrorist threats and/or acts, both real and imputed.The tactic of terrorism is available to insurgents and governments...
, close protection, combat diving, boat handling, sniping
Sniper
A sniper is a marksman who shoots targets from concealed positions or distances exceeding the capabilities of regular personnel. Snipers typically have specialized training and distinct high-precision rifles....
, explosive intervention, advance navigation, and close quarters combat skills, advanced first aid
First aid
First aid is the provision of initial care for an illness or injury. It is usually performed by non-expert, but trained personnel to a sick or injured person until definitive medical treatment can be accessed. Certain self-limiting illnesses or minor injuries may not require further medical care...
, advanced combat shooting and parachuting
Parachuting
Parachuting, also known as skydiving, is the action of exiting an aircraft and returning to earth with the aid of a parachute. It may or may not involve a certain amount of free-fall, a time during which the parachute has not been deployed and the body gradually accelerates to terminal...
. Upon passing this selection course and probationary period they then earn the right to wear the prestigious Green beret
Green beret
The green beret was the official headdress of the British Commandos of World War II. It is still worn with pride by members of the Royal Marines after passing the Commando Course and any member of the British Military who has passed the All Arms Commando Course.There are certain other military...
Some parts of the combat diving training course are done under the supervision of the Naval Service's Naval Service Diving Section.
The ARW also has its own purpose built tactical training facility, including "shoot houses", training ranges and various urban settings. The facility is known as "Tac town".
Command and communications
The ARW is equipped with state-of-the-art ITT SINCGAR
SINCGARS
SINCGARS is a Combat Net Radio currently used by U.S. and allied military forces. The radios, which handle voice and data communications, are designed to be reliable, secure and easily maintained...
, RACAL
Racal
Racal Electronics plc was once the third-largest British electronics firm. Listed on the London Stock Exchange and once a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index, Racal was a diversified company, offering products including: as voice and data recorders; point of sale terminals; laboratory instruments;...
and Harris
Harris Corporation
Harris Corporation is a Florida-based international communications equipment company that produces wireless equipment, electronic systems, and both terrestrial and spaceborne antennas for use in the government, defense, and commercial sectors. It is also the largest private-sector employer in...
communications equipment, all of which have an inbuilt encryption
Encryption
In cryptography, encryption is the process of transforming information using an algorithm to make it unreadable to anyone except those possessing special knowledge, usually referred to as a key. The result of the process is encrypted information...
and frequency hopping systems. It is also equipped with satellite communications.
Missions
United Nations
The United Nations is an international organization whose stated aims are facilitating cooperation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress, human rights, and achievement of world peace...
and EU
European Union
The European Union is an economic and political union of 27 independent member states which are located primarily in Europe. The EU traces its origins from the European Coal and Steel Community and the European Economic Community , formed by six countries in 1958...
and PfP
PFP
-Politics:*Party of Freedom and Progress *People First Party *People First Party , a political party in the Republic of China *Peace and Freedom Party *Progressive Federal Party...
.
Liberia
The ARW was deployed in LiberiaLiberia
Liberia , officially the Republic of Liberia, is a country in West Africa. It is bordered by Sierra Leone on the west, Guinea on the north and Côte d'Ivoire on the east. Liberia's coastline is composed of mostly mangrove forests while the more sparsely populated inland consists of forests that open...
following the Second Liberian Civil War
Second Liberian Civil War
The Second Liberian Civil War began in 1999 when a rebel group backed by the government of neighbouring Guinea, the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy , emerged in northern Liberia. In early 2003, a second rebel group, the Movement for Democracy in Liberia, emerged in the south, and...
as part of a peace-keeping contingent of more than 400 troops from the Irish Defence Forces
Irish Defence Forces
The armed forces of Ireland, known as the Defence Forces encompass the Army, Naval Service, Air Corps and Reserve Defence Force.The current Supreme Commander of the Irish Defence forces is His Excellency Michael D Higgins in his role as President of Ireland...
, in turn part of the mixed Irish/Swedish Force Reserve Battalion of the United Nations mission in the country, UNMIL.
One of their most successful missions during this deployment was the rescue of a group of civilians captured by gunmen from renegade Liberian forces. Acting on intelligence, twenty heavily armed Rangers were dropped by helicopter at the town of Gbapa. To avoid casualties among the hostages, the Rangers implemented a policy of non-lethal intervention and, after surrounding a 40-foot container holding the 35 hostages, rescued them and captured the rebel commander. The incident, which resulted in no Irish casualties, boosted the reputation of the Irish Defence Forces.
One Ranger, Sergeant Derek Mooney of Dublin, was killed when his jeep was involved in a road accident.
East Timor
In 1999, Dáil ÉireannDáil Éireann
Dáil Éireann is the lower house, but principal chamber, of the Oireachtas , which also includes the President of Ireland and Seanad Éireann . It is directly elected at least once in every five years under the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote...
voted to send the ARW to serve with the United Nations International Force, East Timor
INTERFET
The International Force for East Timor was a multinational peacekeeping taskforce, mandated by the United Nations to address the humanitarian and security crisis which took place in East Timor from 1999–2000 until the arrival of United Nations peacekeepers...
(INTERFET). Mandated under a UN Security Council
United Nations Security Council
The United Nations Security Council is one of the principal organs of the United Nations and is charged with the maintenance of international peace and security. Its powers, outlined in the United Nations Charter, include the establishment of peacekeeping operations, the establishment of...
resolution, INTERFET was a peacekeeping force deployed to restore security in the region, support and protect the UN Mission in East Timor, and to facilitate humanitarian assistance operations. The detachment of 30 ARW personnel was involved in peacekeeping duties with Canadian and New Zealand troops near the West Timor border.
Chad
An ARW force of 54 was deployed in 2008 in ChadChad
Chad , officially known as the Republic of Chad, is a landlocked country in Central Africa. It is bordered by Libya to the north, Sudan to the east, the Central African Republic to the south, Cameroon and Nigeria to the southwest, and Niger to the west...
as part of the peacekeeping European Union Force (EUFOR TCHAD/RCA)
EUFOR Tchad/RCA
European Union Force Chad/CAR, also EUFOR Tchad/RCA after the French, was the European Union mission in Chad and the Central African Republic , authorized in late 2007. EUFOR Chad/CAR was authorized under the same United Nations Security Council resolution that mandated MINURCAT, a UN force tasked...
. The ARW arrived on 19 February 2008 and completed reconnaissance missions to select a mission base for the Irish Defence Force deployment (later named "Camp Ciara").
Weapons
In addition to standard issue weapons of the Irish Defence Forces, weapons used by the ARW include:Squad weapons
- PistolPistolWhen distinguished as a subset of handguns, a pistol is a handgun with a chamber that is integral with the barrel, as opposed to a revolver, wherein the chamber is separate from the barrel as a revolving cylinder. Typically, pistols have an effective range of about 100 feet.-History:The pistol...
s- SIG P228
- SIG P226SIG P226The SIG P226 is a full-sized, service-type pistol made by SIG Sauer. It is chambered for the 9×19mm Parabellum, .40 S&W, .357 SIG, and .22 Long Rifle. It is essentially the same basic design of the SIG P220, but developed to use higher capacity, staggered-column magazines in place of the...
- Walther PPKWalther PPKThe Walther PP series pistols are blowback-operated semi-automatic pistols.They feature an exposed hammer, a double-action trigger mechanism, a single-column magazine, and a fixed barrel which also acts as the guide rod for the recoil spring...
- HK USP
- Combat ShotgunCombat shotgunA combat shotgun is a shotgun that is intended for use in an offensive role, typically by a military force. The earliest shotguns specifically designed for combat were the trench guns or trench shotguns issued in World War I...
s- Benelli M3T TacticalBenelli M3The Benelli M3 is a dual-mode shotgun designed and manufactured by Italian firearms manufacturer Benelli. The M3 holds a maximum of seven rounds and uses the proprietary Benelli semi-automatic system first showcased in the M1. The M3 is notable for allowing the user the choice of semi-automatic...
- Benelli M4 Super 90Benelli M4 Super 90The Benelli M4 Super 90 is an Italian semi-automatic shotgun manufactured by Benelli Armi S.P.A.-History:On May 4, 1998, the U.S. Army Armaments Research, Development and Engineering Center at Picatinny Arsenal, NJ issued Solicitation #DAAE30-98-R-0401, requesting submissions for a new 12 gauge,...
- Franchi SPAS-12Franchi SPAS-12The SPAS-12 is a combat shotgun that was manufactured by the Italian firearms company Franchi S.p.A. from 1979 to 2000. The SPAS-12 is a dual-mode shotgun, meaning it can be calibrated to cycle either semi-automatically or through pump-action. The SPAS-12 has sold well to military and police users...
- Remington 870Remington 870The Remington Model 870 is a U.S.-made pump-action shotgun manufactured by Remington Arms Company, Inc. It is widely used by the public for sport shooting, hunting, and self-defense. It is also commonly used by law enforcement and military organizations worldwide.-Development:The Remington 870 was...
- Benelli M3T Tactical
- Assault rifleAssault rifleAn assault rifle is a selective fire rifle that uses an intermediate cartridge and a detachable magazine. Assault rifles are the standard infantry weapons in most modern armies...
s and CarbineCarbineA carbine , from French carabine, is a longarm similar to but shorter than a rifle or musket. Many carbines are shortened versions of full rifles, firing the same ammunition at a lower velocity due to a shorter barrel length....
s- Steyr AUG A1Steyr AUGThe AUG is an Austrian bullpup 5.56mm assault rifle, designed in the early 1970s by Steyr Mannlicher GmbH & Co KG . The AUG was adopted by the Austrian Army as the StG 77 in 1977, where it replaced the 7.62mm StG 58 automatic rifle...
- Steyr AUG A3Steyr AUGThe AUG is an Austrian bullpup 5.56mm assault rifle, designed in the early 1970s by Steyr Mannlicher GmbH & Co KG . The AUG was adopted by the Austrian Army as the StG 77 in 1977, where it replaced the 7.62mm StG 58 automatic rifle...
- HK33/SG1
- Heckler & Koch HK53
- Heckler & Koch HK416
- Steyr AUG A1
- Submachine gunSubmachine gunA submachine gun is an automatic carbine, designed to fire pistol cartridges. It combines the automatic fire of a machine gun with the cartridge of a pistol. The submachine gun was invented during World War I , but the apex of its use was during World War II when millions of the weapon type were...
s- Heckler & Koch MP5Heckler & Koch MP5The Heckler & Koch MP5 is a 9mm submachine gun of German design, developed in the 1960s by a team of engineers from the German small arms manufacturer Heckler & Koch GmbH of Oberndorf am Neckar....
- Including MP5A3,MP5SD6, MP5F and MP5K variants - Heckler & Koch MP7Heckler & Koch MP7The MP7 is a German submachine gun manufactured by Heckler & Koch and chambered for the 4.6×30mm cartridge. It was designed with the new cartridge to meet NATO requirements published in 1989, as these requirements call for a personal defense weapon class firearm, with a greater ability to defeat...
- FN P90FN P90The FN P90 is a selective fire personal defense weapon designed and manufactured by FN Herstal in Belgium. The P90's name is taken from 1990, the year it was introduced...
- Heckler & Koch MP5
- Sniper rifleSniper rifleIn military and law enforcement terminology, a sniper rifle is a precision-rifle used to ensure more accurate placement of bullets at longer ranges than other small arms. A typical sniper rifle is built for optimal levels of accuracy, fitted with a telescopic sight and chambered for a military...
s- Heckler & Koch HK417
- Accuracy International PM/L96Accuracy International Arctic WarfareThe Accuracy International Arctic Warfare rifle is a family of bolt-action sniper rifles designed and manufactured by the British company Accuracy International...
- Including L115 (.338.338 LapuaThe .338 Lapua Magnum is a specialized rimless bottlenecked centerfire cartridge developed for military long-range sniper rifles. The Afghanistan War and Iraq War made it a combat-proven round with ready and substantial ammunition availability...
), AI96 (.308), and AW50Accuracy International AW50The AW50 is a .50 BMG anti-materiel rifle designed by Accuracy International. It is a re-engineered version of the Accuracy International Arctic Warfare L96 sniper rifle .-Users:-See also:...
anti-materiel variants - Steyr SSG 69Steyr SSG 69The SSG 69 is a bolt-action sniper rifle produced by Steyr Mannlicher and serves as the standard sniper rifle for the Austrian Army....
- Light machine gunLight machine gunA light machine gun is a machine gun designed to be employed by an individual soldier, with or without an assistant, as an infantry support weapon. Light machine guns are often used as squad automatic weapons.-Characteristics:...
s- FN Minimi Para
Support weapons
- Denel Land Systems M1 60mm commando mortarCommando mortarCommando mortar refers to a class of infantry light mortars designed for maximum portability and rapid deployment, at the expense of accuracy and repeatability....
- Carl Gustav 84mm recoilless rifleCarl Gustav recoilless rifleThe Carl Gustav is the common name for the 84 mm man-portable reusable multi-role recoilless rifle produced by Saab Bofors Dynamics in Sweden...
- Including M2 and M3 variants - AT4AT4The AT4 is an 84-mm unguided, portable, single-shot recoilless smoothbore weapon built in Sweden by Saab Bofors Dynamics...
- Raytheon JavelinFGM-148 JavelinThe FGM-148 Javelin is a United States-made man-portable third generation anti-tank missile fielded to replace the Dragon antitank missile.-Overview:Javelin is a fire-and-forget missile with lock-on before launch and automatic self-guidance...
Anti-tank guided missileAnti-tank guided missileAn anti-tank missile , anti-tank guided missile , anti-tank guided weapon or anti-armor guided weapon is a guided missile primarily designed to hit and destroy heavily-armored military vehicles.... - M203 grenade launcherM203 grenade launcherThe M203 is a single shot 40 mm grenade launcher designed to attach to a rifle. It uses the same rounds as the older M79 break-action grenade launcher, which utilize the High-Low Propulsion System to keep recoil forces low. Though versatile, and compatible with many rifle models, the M203 was...
Vehicle-mounted weapons
- FN 7.62mmFN MAGThe FN MAG is a Belgian 7.62 mm general-purpose machine gun, designed in the early 1950s at Fabrique Nationale by Ernest Vervier. It has been used by more than 80 countries, and it has been made under licence in countries such as Argentina, Egypt, India, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the...
GPMG - Browning M2 heavy machinegun .50cal
- Heckler & Koch GMG 40mm automatic grenade launcher
Specialised equipment
- Ford F350 (modified as Special Reconnaissance Vehicle)
- Land Rover Range Rovers (modified for Counter Terrorist duties)
- Nissan Navara (Tactical Assault Vehicle)
- Yamaha 660 All-terrain vehiclesYamaha Raptor 660The Yamaha Raptor 660R is a sport all terrain vehicle made by Yamaha with a 660cc, single cylinder, five-valve, four-stroke engine. It is designed to perform well in every riding condition. Yamaha sold the Raptor 660 from model year 2001 through 2005. The Raptor 660R was replaced in 2006 by the...
- KTMKTMKTM Sportmotorcycle AG is an Austrian motorcycle, bicycle and moped manufacturer.The company was founded in 1934 by engineer Hans Trunkenpolz in Mattighofen. It started out as a metal working shop and was named Kraftfahrzeuge Trunkenpolz Mattighofen...
motorcycle - SuzukiSuzukiis a Japanese multinational corporation headquartered in Hamamatsu, Japan that specializes in manufacturing compact automobiles and 4x4 vehicles, a full range of motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles , outboard marine engines, wheelchairs and a variety of other small internal combustion engines...
DR-350 and DR-Z400Suzuki DR-Z400The Suzuki DR-Z400 is a dual purpose motorcycle manufactured by Suzuki. It is powered by a single-cylinder, , liquid cooled four-stroke engine. Its reliability, low price and decent performance have made it a popular dual-sport choice around the world...
motorbikes (See: Image) - DrägerDrägerThe Drägerwerk AG is a German company based in Lübeck which makes breathing and protection equipment, gas detection and analysis systems, and noninvasive patient monitoring technologies. Customers include hospitals, fire departments and diving companies....
LAV-7 RebreatherRebreatherA rebreather is a type of breathing set that provides a breathing gas containing oxygen and recycled exhaled gas. This recycling reduces the volume of breathing gas used, making a rebreather lighter and more compact than an open-circuit breathing set for the same duration in environments where...
(See: image) - Klepper MK13 canoe
- Combat Rubber Raiding CraftCombat Rubber Raiding CraftThe F470 Combat Rubber Raiding Craft , also known as the "Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Craft," is a specially fabricated rubber inflatable boat often used by United States Navy SEALs and Marines, among others...
- Rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RIBs)Rigid-hulled inflatable boatA rigid-hulled inflatable boat, or rigid-inflatable boat is a light-weight but high-performance and high-capacity boat constructed with a solid, shaped hull and flexible tubes at the gunwale. The design is stable and seaworthy...
(Delta 7 metre, Lencraft 5.1 metre dive, and Lencraft 7.5&6.5 metre intruder RIBs)