Beginning a special-operations mission unobserved is often crucial to its
success. The end of a mission can require a rescue effort if the team
encounters superior numbers of the enemy. With good reason, special-ops
forces have devised a variety of specialized insertion and extraction procedures.
Some, such as the High Altitude Low Opening parachute insertion are routine.
Others, such as the airplane-rescue technique called Skyhook are so risky
that no one relishes having to use them.
All insertion and extraction methods must be workable at night. Starlight
television cameras and infrared viewing systems help aircrews see what they
are doing. Nightvision goggles are nearly indispensable both aloft and on the
ground. Dim lights are sometimes used to mark parachute drop zones, the path
of a rope, or the position of an individual to be retrieved.
There is no fixed way of performing any of the techniques that are explained
in this handbook. Airborne and waterborne methods are frequently combined,
and equipment can be substituted or modified. As in so many other aspects
of special operations, flexibility is the key requirement.
Insertions
Extractions
Other Stuff
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The Chart Just how fast *do* you go in freefall?
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The GM Section
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