SWAT Concept
The Basic Idea of SWAT Operations
A three-officer element uses a corner for cover and concealment. The number two man provides rear security for the point man.	The mission of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team is to provide ready response to situations beyond the capabilities of normally equipped and trained law enforcement agency personnel. Normally, the operational employment of the SWAT Team will be in response to activities in one or more of three basic (general) areas. The first of these is any situation in which a building or dwelling must be cleared, i.e., barricaded persons, subjects with hostages in a building, snipers in buildings, raids, etc. The second encompasses operations which take place in nonbuilt up areas, i.e., parks, woods, recreational areas. An example of this type operation is an escaped criminal located and contained in a wooded area. The criminal is armed and has taken a defensive position. The third situation will often occur concurrently with with either of the above. This is a hostage situation. In addition to these three primary areas, SWAT can be effectively employed in the security of dignitaries or VIPs, training of non-SWAT personnel, conducting countersniper operations in a Civil Disturbance Environment, and the apprehension (serving warrant and subsequent arrest) of criminals with backgrounds of violent action. Depending on departmental policy, a SWAT Team may be mobilized for other additional operations. Whether the team is employed or not, is of no importance initially. That the team responds rapidly, with proper equipment, is. Opportunities to employ the team in diversified situations should not be overlooked.	"The most important things about a special ops team are the ways people are selected and trained for these missions. Experience and training are essential. If something can go wrong, it will. Any one person on the team can defeat the effort of the rest - as happens all too often" - SWAT Officer
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