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Swedish Air Force RangersAs a result of a new Swedish defense strategy, the Swedish Air Force developed a new defense plan. Under the this new plan, termed Bas-90, airfields, aircraft, and supplies would be dispersed at various locations though out the Swedish countryside. Although this plan gives the aircraft a greater chance of survival during air attacks, it also makes them harder to defend on the ground. The Swedish Air Force high command has determined that the greatest potential threat during the event of hostilities would come from enemy special operations forces (SOF). To counter this threat and any other that may develop, the Swedish Air Force formed a new counter SOF unit.
The new unit, known as Flygbasjagarna (Fbj), or Swedish Air Force (Air Base) Rangers (SAFRs), was formed in 1983. This highly trained unit is tasked with countering incursions by enemy SOFs. Unit members are trained to track, locate, and eliminate an enemy unit before it can strike. To accomplish this mission the unit uses specially trained dogs and dog handlers.
SAFRs are organized into platoons of five squads; one HQ squad, and four Ranger squads. The HQ consists of 8 men while the Ranger squads are made up of 8 men and two dogs. Within each squad each man will have a specialty; Squad leader, Assistant Squad Leader, dog handler, anti-tank/machine gunner, or medic. Squads can be subdivided into two groups of four men each, allowing them to cover larger areas. Ranger squads patrol outside of the base perimeter at distances up to 15 KM, security inside the base perimeter is provided by Close Protection Platoons (similar to USAF SF). Patrols can last up three weeks in duration. During this time a great deal of physical stress is placed on troops. SAFRs use all standard Swedish small arms, heavy weapon, and vehicles.
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