Jagdkommando is the special forces unit that is exclusive to Austria. It has been active in Austria since 1962 and is set up to combat Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Insurgency. The soldiers who are part of Jagkommando, which means “Hunting Command” are specially trained professionals who endure tremendous physical and psychological training in order to make this special type of team.

History Of The Austrian Special Forces

The history of the Austrian Commando Units originally started in 1961 at which time Austrian officers trained at the US Army Ranger School in an effort to set up this special Austrian branch of special forces. Since then, the Jagdkommando has turned into one of the most respected special forces teams in the world. They specialize in classified missions and incorporated their own military tactics and knowledge into the forces. The Jagdkommando is located in Wiener Neustadt.

How To Become A Member Of The Jagdkommando

Those who join this Austrian special forces team are members of the Austrian Army.  Both officers and enlisted men can try out to train for this special branch of the Austrian armed forces.  Only 6 percent of those who actually try out for the Jagdkommando actually make it into this special forces unit.

In order to train to be a member of this elite squad, soldiers need not have no criminal record, have completed a preparation course if they are enlisted soldiers and have exceptional mental as well as physical fitness.

Jagdkommando Training

Training for the Jagdkommando is rigorous at best. It includes alpine training as well as parachuting, swimming, combat training, medical training, survival skills, hand to hand combat and close quarter combat and blast training. There are only a small number of soldiers who pass the course and are awarded the insignia that sets them apart as a member of this elite special forces team.

What Are They Best At?

The basic tasks of this Austrian special forces unit include gathering of high level military intelligence, higher than ordinary intelligence that is acquired by special forces. Personal security, the rescuing of hostages, evacuation and counter terrorism are all part of the tasks that this special forces team undertakes.

As is the case with other special forces teams, this Austrian special forces team is sent in on dangerous assignments to assist soldiers in times of battle.  Unlike some other special forces units, they do employ direct hand to hand combat with the enemy and have Swat team capabilities for removing hostages from dangerous situations. They are considered to be the fittest of all of the armed forces in Austria and enter the program from the Austrian Army. experts in the field of combat, anti-terrorism and intelligence gathering.

Weapons Of The Jagdkommando

The weapons used by the Jagdkommando forces include the FN Herstal P90, the Glock 17, 18, 21 and 26, A Barrett M95, a Steyr AUG and the Steyr SSG.

Known Missions

Although their missions are classified, this special forces team will also operate in places where regular Austrian troops are also located, examples being the Balkins as well as Afghanistan. Recently, the Jagdkommando troops are in the midst of protecting Dufur refugee camps.

Are They Professional Soldiers?

The Jagdkommando forces consist of professional soldiers and are not volunteers.  Most of those who make this elite force continue a career in the Austrian armed forces.

Resources

www.wikipedia.org

This Article is written by James Kara Murat, contributor of US Navy SEAL Information Portal.