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 Israel's Operational Security (IOS) Academy
provides professional counter-terror training based on unique
know-how and tactics developed and practiced by Israel's special
operations forces, Mossad and the Israeli Security
Authority ISA (formerly Shin Bet or Shabak). Courses that include theoretical and
tactical lessons, unarmed combat techniques, simulated and live
combat firing practice in security and anti-terror scenarios, and
driving techniques are provided for government agency’s special
security units, and VIP bodyguards. Training courses can be
conducted in host countries in Europe, Africa and China as well as
at I.O.S.'s 4,000 square meter facility in central Israel. The IOS
facility has 24 shooting ranges, including a secure open range
where students can practice day and night 360° firing at distances
up to 200m. Counter-Terror Training
The I.O.S. academy offers professional
military counter-terror courses tailored for training of both
takeover and engagement units. Training methodology for the two
courses is common, enabling units to cooperate for large-scale
operations during crises where involvement of more than one type
of unit is required.
“Our comprehensive CT course covers extensive individual combat
training for use in counter-terror situations, including combat
shooting when innocent civilians are in the area, unarmed combat
and sniper techniques," says Gil Chayoun, general manager of the
academy. "As well as brushing up individual skills, we provide the
foundations for team actions by practicing realistic, complex
maneuvers by day and night, involving critical situations such as
takeovers of complex objects such as aircraft, schools or
embassies, etc. Real buses, train-cars, and various types of
buildings are used to provide training in realistic environments,"
says Chayoun.
Techniques taught range from situational assessment using visual
simulators, to commando style takeovers using techniques for
rappelling from tall buildings or roofs. Other phases of the
course include training in theoretical and practical skills such
as introduction to negotiation techniques, which teaching basic
techniques for negotiating with terrorists. Counter-terror
operations planning and equipment and personal gear
recommendations are included in the theoretical aspect for the
training schemes. Other focus includes the employment of bomb
disposal squad
techniques for handling bombs and Improvised Explosive Devices, (IED)
as well as the use of Explosives Ordnance Disposal (EOD)
equipment.
Bodyguard Training
The I.O.S. academy also trains
bodyguards for government, commercial and elite V.I.P. security
functions, such as the protection of diplomats, embassies,
businessmen, civil contractors operating in high risk areas, etc.
The course combines all the theoretical and practical knowledge
required for these activities. All instructors are former
commanders of Israeli Army elite forces, or intelligence agency
operatives, who can providing insight into the latest security
methods and techniques combined with safety techniques and risk
reduction.
Students taking part in the V.I.P. protection course practice with all
types of weapons ranging from 7.65 and 9 mm pistols such as the Jericho
and Beretta, up to semi-automatic weapons including the Galil,
Uzi, M-16 and other models, in a comprehensive range of situations
that can be encountered during both day and night operations. They also
practice defending VIPs at home, with or without family members present,
in cars, offices, and other common situations. Other training
elements cover unarmed contact combat, driving techniques,
shooting techniques, evacuation, day and night convoy movement,
and related activities. An extensive theoretical section covers
all aspects of security planning.
Unarmed Close Combat
"Our Krav Maga (contact combat) system
is unique among techniques used for counter terror," says Master
Avi Avisidon, the chief instructor of unarmed combat at I.O.S., an
Dan 8 who has professionally practiced Krav Maga methods for
more than 30 years. "We teach how to handle weapons and all types
of terror situations." According to Avisidon, the Krav Maga system
is based on natural body movements and is exceptional in being
simple, fast and efficient. "The first part of the system,
self-defense, develops the ability to defend against violent
attacks, and is designed for men, women, children or the elderly.
The second part, Krav Magen (defensive combat) is designed for
people who may be forced to engage in armed or unarmed combat in
their line of duty." Says Avisidon. The Krav Maga system has been
adopted by the Israeli commando units, the Israeli Army, police
units and Special Forces units all over the world. The I.O.S.
academy is pre-eminent today in both types of martial arts.
If you would like more information about the academy, or are
interested in participating in these courses, please
click here
for more information. |
