SWAT Training

Police officers will need at least three to four years of experience with an excellent record before applying to SWAT.

Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) recruiting includes rigorous and demanding physical and mental tests often for a limited number of positions. After recruitment, more physical conditioning and training is required to stay on the force.

Trainers

Municipal organizations, like the Dallas, Detroit, and Kansas City police departments have SWAT teams along with training to become part of it. Other organizations like the North American SWAT Training Association (NASTA) and Operational Tactics (OpTac) also offer training services.

Requirements

Dallas SWAT teams require new recruits to have at least four years of police service with a good work record. Applicants must pass a weapons test, oral interview and the Cooper test, which involves timed sprints, leaps, bench presses, push-ups and sit-ups.

Hostage Rescue

Hostage rescue can be the most demanding situation involving the police. Two scenarios SWAT trains for are entry-and-barricade situations and victim/officer rescue.

Teamwork

Teamwork is fundamental to a SWAT team in the field. For example, NASTA uses team-building exercises to build trust between members. Many other exercises, like Night Move Practicals--a form of covert team movement--are team based.

Firearms

Training also includes tactical firearm training like shooting, reloading and movement shooting drills. Individual and group training is given to increase effectiveness. NASTA provides basic and advanced SWAT training in firearms.

References

• A&E: What it Takes/Training
• North American SWAT Training Organization: Basic SWAT School
• North American SWAT Training Organization: Advanced SWAT School