Combat Search And Rescue (CSAR)

Overview

This SOP outlines the guidelines for 40 Commando's involvement in Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) missions. CSAR missions will be undertaken only when feasible within the scope of 40 Commando’s current taskings. Missions will be limited to pilot recovery and airframe destruction/asset denial, as specified below. Recovery of the airframe itself will not be pursued unless explicitly instructed by Strategic Command HQ (Callsign: Checkmate).

Authorisation and Tasking

- Authorisation Requirement: All CSAR taskings must be authorised by Sterling Zero-Alpha, 40 Commando’s Commanding Officer (CO). Authorization will only be granted following a comprehensive briefing on the situation.
- Primary Mission Scope:
  - Pilot Recovery: To recover downed pilots when possible.
  - Airframe Destruction/Asset Denial: Destruction of sensitive airframe assets may be authorised to prevent enemy exploitation.
  - Airframe Recovery: Airframe recovery will only be conducted if directly instructed by Strategic Command HQ (Checkmate).

Pilot Recovery Protocol

Recovery of downed pilots can be carried out through:
1. Dispatch of a Recovery Team: A team will be sent to the pilot's crash site to retrieve and secure them.
2. Guided Self-Recovery: Communication will be established with the pilot to guide them along a secure route to either friendly lines or a designated regrouping point (Re-Group).

Communication Protocol with Downed Pilots

Communication with downed pilots will utilise the following methods:
- Radio Communication: Frequency 50
- Visual Signals:
  - IR Strobe: For night-time position indication under Infra-Red.
  - Green Smoke: For daytime position indication.
  - Red Handheld Flare: For emergency signalling.

Recovery teams should remain vigilant for these signals as they move to locate and recover the pilot.

On-Site Procedures

- Unconscious Pilots: If a pilot is found unconscious at or near the crash site, immediate first aid will be administered. The pilot will then be moved to the Casualty Collection Point (CCP), where Starlight Zero (40 CDO medical command) will coordinate a medical evacuation (med-evac).
  
- Deceased Pilots: If a pilot is confirmed deceased, this must be communicated on frequency 50. If possible, the pilot’s body and any sensitive items or information should be recovered. If recovery is not feasible, sensitive items, including the airframe, are to be denied to prevent enemy use.

Accountability of Crew Members

When conducting a CSAR mission, all crew members from the downed aircraft must be accounted for. Coordination for an accurate headcount is to be arranged with Joint Air Command HQ (Callsign: Skybridge) via frequency 50. This ensures a complete understanding of the situation and confirmation that no personnel remain unaccounted for.

Summary

This SOP ensures 40 Commando’s involvement in CSAR missions is clear, targeted, and aligned with operational constraints. By adhering to these guidelines, 40 Commando can effectively execute CSAR missions when necessary, safeguarding personnel and critical assets while minimising risk and exposure.

Created By:

Lt. W. Scott 
CO, BCOY, 40CDO