EZAPAC participates in high-level rescue training exercises
The Spanish Air Force Sappers Parachute Squadron participated in the Air Centric Personnel Recovery Operatives Course 2016.
The Spanish Air Force Sappers Parachute Squadron (EZAPAC) participated in the Air Centric Personnel Recovery Operatives Course 2016 (APROC 16) held at Lechfeld air base, Germany from the 25 September to 13 October.
This course is ‘the most advanced training available’ in the field of personnel recovery, according to EZAPAC, and saw the squadron members improving their techniques, tactics and procedures when performing rescues. The course is organised by the European Personnel Recovery Centre (EPRC).
EZAPAC fielded a squad of eight pararescuers, along with two survival, evasion, resistance and escape (SERE) specialist during exercises and a ‘mission monitor’ official. The squadron was also able to participate in air support drills, with a Super Puma helicopter having been provided by the Spanish Air Force 48th Wing. Also present were a German CH-53, Italian HH212 and HH139, a Polish Mi24 and a French AS555 Fennec.
During APROC 16, the squadron completed seven scenarios, with each mission increasing in difficulty. The scenarios involved the rescue of both military and civilian casualties. EZAPAC said that it ‘proved once again its high level of preparation’ whilst also being able to improve ‘its ability to operate with other countries’.