MISSIONS -URBAN

Direct action conducted against enemy situated in an urban environment. In the South African Special Forces context these urban environments include built-up metropolitan areas with their network of water, sewerage and electricity reticulation, but it also incorporates informal settlements built of wood, corrugated iron and cardboard.

The focus of South African Special Forces operations conducted in urban areas is hostage release and limited offensive tasks with the purpose of eliminating pockets of armed resistance. The term therefore also extends to specific operations conducted on aircraft, trains, ships and buses, mostly for the purpose of releasing hostages and eliminating the armed hostage-takers.