FBI SWAT Training
Inside the Federal Bureau of Investigation operates a specialized tactical unit that is called in for special missions such as hostage situations or protecting a dignitary. The Special Weapons And Tactics (SWAT) unit inside the FBI is called the Hostage Rescue Team. The team acts as a federal SWAT team to provide tactical solutions to law enforcement crises at all levels, from arresting terrorist suspects to tracking fugitives.
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History
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The Hostage Rescue Team was created in 1983 to provide counter terrorism protection where the other federal law enforcement agencies could not. An increase in terrorist attacks during the 1980s forced the FBI to provide a higher level of proficiency when handling terrorism suspects and potential terrorist attacks. Since then, the HRT has undergone extensive daily SWAT training.
Requirements
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Members of the FBI's Hostage Rescue Team must first meet the requirements to become an FBI special agent. Special agents must have a minimum of three years' experience as law enforcement or military tactical training to enter the SWAT training that is required to join the HRT. FBI special agents are required to apply for the Tactical Recruiting Program to assess their capabilities to perform on the Hostage Rescue Team. Special agents chosen to participate in the recruiting program will have to participate in testing and an interview before officially training to become a member of the HRT.
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Features
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FBI SWAT training includes hostage rescue simulations using commercial aircraft, as well as live fire and chaos exercises to help HRT trainees get acquainted with real world scenarios. Flash bang grenades, smoke machines and loud noises help recruits remain calm during tense negotiations and rescue missions. SWAT training for the HRT also includes physical tests so members are able to operate in different climates and terrains. The HRT trains in cold weather, in water, urban settings and rural environments. Additionally, the HRT undergoes training with ropes, and candidates train for rappelling in the event of emergency rescues or extractions.
Enhanced Physical Testing
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FBI SWAT training for HRT members includes an enhanced physical fitness test that all applicants must pass in order to move on to the next phase of testing and interviewing. The enhanced testing includes five events administered in order. To pass, HRT applicants must score at least 20 points, receiving at least one point in each event. Applicants must do as many sit-ups as they can in one minute, complete a 300-meter timed sprint, an un-timed push-up test, a timed mile and a half run and a pull up test.
Time Frame
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SWAT training for HRT never ends. Once the testing has been completed and special agents are part of the HRT, they complete 120-day training cycles three times each year. In between those training cycles, HRT members continue SWAT training by engaging in gear maintenance and magazine drills. When HRT members are not engaged in a special mission, they engage in full-time training to maintain the tactical edge.
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References
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