Kampfretter
Kampfretter (German: Kampfretter, lit. 'Combat rescuemen' is a special operations force of the German Air Force, tasked with combat search and rescue (CSAR) missions. As part of personnel recovery Kampfretter units are tasked with the recovery of air crews and personnel in hazardous regions or behind enemy lines.[1]
| Kampfretter | |
| Active | 2013–present |
|---|---|
| Country |  Germany |
| Branch | German Air Force |
| Type | Special forces |
| Role | Combat search and rescue |
| Part of | Helicopter Wing 64 |
| Garrison/HQ | Laupheim |
| Motto(s) | That others may live |
Selection and training
Candidates for serving as part of the Kampfretter units are recruited from the German Air Force Regiment. In order to increase the number of candidates, recruitment is being opened continuously for members of the German Army's Rapid Forces Division. The completion of basic infantry training and an enlistment of 20 years is required for prospective members. Candidates undergo a strict selection process which is followed by training in:
- Specialized infantry training
- Completion of German commando course
- Parachutist course including HALO/HAHO qualification
- Rappelling/fast-roping
- Mountain rescue
- SERE training
- Close quarter fighting
- Extraction via helicopter
- Medical training
The completion of the entire training circle may take up to two years.[2]
Mission and deployments
Since their establishment Kampfretter personnel have been deployed as part of the NATO-led Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan.[3]
Along with the German Army's KSK Kampfretter were among the first to respond to the 2016 bombing of the German consulate at Mazar-i-Sharif.
References
- Leithäuser, Johannes. "Bundeswehr: Schießen Sie nicht auf den Sanitäter". Faz.net – via www.faz.net.
- "Kampfretter – Spezialisten aus der Luft".
- "HINTERGRUND-Immer in Bereitschaft - Deutsche Kampfretter in Afghanistan". Reuters. May 16, 2017 – via de.reuters.com.