Fact files: Special forces - infiltration

Fact files: Special forces - infiltration

	Infiltration
	Tracking
	Equipment
	Movement
	Extraction

To find out how these three tactics work read below

Special forces have one of the most important roles to play in any major conflict, and the US, the UK and Australia all have special forces teams operating in the current war in Iraq.

They are highly trained, mobile, work in small units and travel relatively lightly.

This makes them ideal for dangerous missions behind enemy lines. The forces include the American units, Delta Force, Navy Seals and the Army Rangers, and the British Special Air Service and Special Boat Squadron.

But how do they get there in the first place?

1) HAHO jumping
High Altitude/High Opening (HAHO) can only be carried out by highly-trained parachutists who can navigate in the air.

Troops leap from an aircraft above 30,000ft and possibly across an international border so that they reduce the chances of the aircraft being identified.

At this height (Mount Everest stands 29,000ft high) soldiers require oxygen and specialist clothing.

Within seconds of jumping, the team open parachutes and then perform a series of navigational turns to remain on target.

Each team member must check speed and direction and anticipate what moves to stay within range of each other and the target landing site.

2) HALO Opening jumping
High Altitude/Low jumping may not be as complicated as HAHO navigation, but it is no less dangerous.

The team jump from at least 36,000ft and as close to the target area as they can. AS with HAHO jumping, the team members need oxygen to remain conscious and specialist clothing to prevent freezing.

They freefall for as long as possible and straight through the radar detection zone. They delay opening the parachute for as long as possible. Because of the risk of hypoxia ( which causes loss of conciousness ) HALO parachutes automatically open at a pre-determined altitude.

The team can also carry additional equipment on a separate cord that hits the ground before they do.

3) Entry by water and land
Special forces are also trained to get behind enemy lines by more conventional methods.

The US prides itself on the training of its Navy SEAL (Sea, Air and Land) special forces, while in the UK both the SAS and SBS (Special Boat Service) have vast maritime experience.

The British SAS are renowned for operating in hostile environments like the desert and the jungle. Part of their training, and even selection process, involves covering large distances, over mountainous terrain and being self-sufficient in the field.

Soldiers are taught how to cover their tracks, stay hidden, memorise map references, live off the land, and carry everything they need without leaving any evidence behind.