NCJ Number
73031
Journal
TVI JOURNAL Volume: 1 Issue: 12 Dated: (1980) Pages: 9-20
Date Published
1980
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the development of several Western antiterrorist squads including the Special Aid Unit (BBE) of the Dutch Royal Marines, the German GSG-9, and the British Special Air Service (SAS).
Abstract
Noting that a 1977 Associated Press survey revealed trained teams of antiterrorists in at least 13 countries, the article states that the tragedy of the Munich Olympics provided the catalyst for several European units. The article also describes the successful BBE assault to free 22 hostages seized by 4 convicts in the chapel of Scheveningen prison in Holland. Using the principle of controlled violence, BBE members train with numerous weapons in assault tactics and are supported by a second group made up of two squads of sharpshooters. The article examines the composition, training, and history of the German GSG-9 antiterrorist group and briefly describes its additional role of advising and instructing other national units. Some of the more unusual training tactics of the SAS are outlined including hijacking scenarios and challenging physical tests. The more secretive British Special Boat squadron of the Royal Marines and its protection of North Sea oil rigs is mentioned briefly. Finally, two separate groups in the American military with specialized antiterrorist training are described: the Black Berets and the Blue Light, Delta Team, or Charlie's Angels. Footnotes are provided.