The Pasukan Khas TUDM (RMAF Special Force, Jawi: ڤاسوكن خاص تنترا اودارا) – it is better known as PASKAU – is the special operations force of the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF; Malay: Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia — TUDM). Its main functions are to carry out high-value target protection, ground forward air controller, combat search and rescue and rescuing downed aircrew assignments. PASKAU is also tasked as the principal anti-hijack response force for military and civil aircraft in Malaysia. This task was taken over from Grup Gerak Khas. All PASKAU members are airborne and commando-trained and can be deployed behind enemy lines via air, land and sea to assist in target designation for the Malaysian Armed Forces and RMAF missions.[1]
PASKAU is one of the two units comprising the RMAF Regiment (Malay: Rejimen TUDM).[2]
History
PASKAU detachments dressed in the No.4 Digital Camouflage, tactical gear and ghillie suits parading during the 60th National Day Parade of Malaysia at Sultan Abdul Samad Street, Kuala Lumpur.
HANDAU
PASKAU can trace its origins back to 1974. A mortar attack by Malayan Communist Party agents from outside of Kuala Lumpur RMAF Airbase, and in 1979, another mortar attack resulted in damage to an RMAF DHC-4 Caribou transport aircraft.[3] Due to these incidents, a specific directive from the RMAF led to the formation of a new security force which would take over security of RMAF airbases from the Malaysian ArmyRoyal Military Police Corps (RMPC). The unit was drafted at the end of 1976 by Group Captain Abdul Kadir Abu Bakar, Squadron Leader Lai Kiat Meng, and Flight Lieutenant Mior Rosli. Later, Fight Lieutenant Mior Rosli was selected as the unit's first commanding officer. Corporal Mahazir is the first airman to receive commando training at the Special Warfare Training Centre in Malacca.[4] Later, more officers and airmen were sent, resulting in the establishment of a force known as Pasukan Pertahanan Darat dan Udara (the "Air and Ground Defence Force'), or by its abbreviation, HANDAU, on 1 April 1980. The new force was tasked as the security force for RMAF airbases.[1][5] The first HANDAU squadron was named 102 HANDAU Squadron. A small number of Malaysian Army Gerak Khas commandos were attached to HANDAU as RMAF Air Rescue Team.[6]
The HANDAU was reactivated on 1 June 2020, by the RMAF. Existing RMAF Provost Squadrons are now referred to as "HANDAU". Their responsibilities no longer focus solely on their role as military police squadrons but also as air force ground forces and security forces. They are now a part of the RMAF Regiment and wear the beret backing of the RMAF Regiment on their navy blue beret.[2]
RMAF Security Regiment Headquarters
The 102 Squadron was the first unit to take over security duties from the RMPC at Kuala Lumpur RMAF Airbase, on 1 April 1980. RMAF Security Regiment Headquarters (Malay: Markas Rejimen Keselamatan TUDM — MAREJ) was established as HQ for HANDAU, and since the HQ establishment up to 1 March 1987, ten more HANDAU squadrons were established.
List of RMAF HANDAU Squadrons
Branch
Base
Year Formed
102 HANDAU Squadron
Kuala Lumpur RMAF Airbase
1 April 1980
103 HANDAU Squadron
Kuantan RMAF Airbase
18 November 1980
104 HANDAU Squadron
Butterworth RMAF Airbase
10 January 1981
202 HANDAU Squadron
Ipoh RMAF Airbase
9 February 1981
105 HANDAU Squadron
Kuching RMAF Airbase
7 April 1981
107 HANDAU Squadron
Alor Setar RMAF Airbase
7 July 1981
109 HANDAU Squadron
DEBKAT Subang
6 August 1981
204 HANDAU Squadron
Kluang RMAF Airbase
19 August 1981
201 HANDAU Squadron
Bukit Jugra RMAF Airbase
27 August 1987
208 HANDAU Squadron
Subang RMAF Airbase
1 September 1987
106 HANDAU Squadron
Labuan RMAF Airbase
1 March 1987
RMAF Regiment
Since MAREJ's establishment in 1980, MAREJ reported directly to the Air Force Command (Malay: Markas Tentera Udara — MTU) for all operations involving the HANDAU squadrons. As part of the June 1983 reorganization of the RMAF, MAREJ was moved under the RMAF High Command (Malay: Markas Besar Udara — MABES) and was also renamed as the RMAF Regiment. At the same time, the HANDAU squadrons were renamed to the RMAF Provost Squadrons. The RMAF Provost Squadrons was given with the task of providing security for RMAF Forward Operation Bases (FOB). As part of the same reorganization, two special operations (Spec Ops) elements also introduced to the RMAF Regiment. The special operations elements are Combat Air Rescue Team (CART; Malay: Tim Penyelamat Tempur Udara) and Rapid Deployment Force (RDF; Malay: Pasukan Gerak Cepat).[7]
On 17 March 1999, PKU was moved from Kuala Lumpur RMAF Air Base to Jugra RMAF Air Base. The RMAF Provost Squadrons was separated from RMAF Regiment and made into a single department – RMAF Provost Marshal Department. On 1 April 2002, 22 years after HANDAU establishment, PKU now officially known as Pasukan Khas TUDM (Abbr.: PASKAU; 'RMAF Special Forces').[7]
Today, RMAF Regiment operates directly under RMAF Air Operations Headquarters and is located at Bukit Jugra RMAF Air Base, Banting. Below are the six main squadrons of PASKAU under the Operations Branch of the RMAF Regiment, the branch that responsible for special operations.
PASKAU branches, responsibility and roles
Squadron
Responsibility
Roles
Combat Wing Squadron
Special operations and counter-terrorism
Combat Wing Squadron (CWS; Malay: Skuadron Sayap Tempur — SST) is the combat arm of PASKAU. Located at Jugra RMAF Airbase, this squadron is trained in counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, infiltration and sabotage, and can work behind enemy lines to destroy or disable high-value targets. PASKAU's counter-terrorist team, the Flight Hostage Rescue Team (FHRT), that specialises in aircraft hostage rescue operations is attached to this squadron.[5]
Combat Air Rescue Squadron (CARS; Malay: Skuadron Penyelamat Tempur Udara — SPTU), is capable of mounting a rescue operation behind enemy lines. It consist of six detachments operating from air bases with a Rescue Sub-Centre (RSC) at Kuala Lumpur, Kuantan, Butterworth, Gong Kedak, Kuching and Labuan AFBs.[5]
The Force Protection Squadron (FPS; Malay: Skuadron Kawalan Medan — SKM) provides special protection for high-value military assets such as air defence radar and forward operating bases (FOB). Protection of high-value targets includes not only infrastructure but also close or special escort duty. For zone protection, this team is equipped with the Field Intrusion Detection System (FIDS). Before 2021, this unit was known as the Field Protection Squadron.[5]
The Special Air Combat Assault Squadron provides the RMAF and Malaysian Armed Forces with Pathfinders and Forward Air Controllers. This unit, also known as RMAF FAC, which is an abbreviation for Royal Malaysian Air Force Forward Air Controllers, can be deployed behind enemy lines via helicopter or parachute. They have AN/PEQ-1 SOFLAM Ground Laser Target Designation (GLTD) teams to provide forward target acquisition and tracking for attacking aircraft. Every mission involves six personnel with different specialisations, such as cross-trained signalers, medics, weapons specialists, demolition experts, snipers, and boatmen. In 2021, this squadron was created. Even though this unit is new as a squadron, it has a long track record and was previously known as Ground Forward Air Controller, or GFAC, and was attached to Combat Wing Squadron. Due to the fact that Combat Wing Squadron will focus solely on counter-terrorism and hostage rescue roles, GFAC was separated as a new squadron.[9][10]
Maritime Para Rescue Squadron
Maritime-based combat search and rescue
The Maritime Para Rescue Squadron is a combat search and rescue squadron that specialises in search and rescue operations at sea. They will operate from air bases near the ocean. Prior to 2021, they were known as the Maritime Pararescue Team and were part of the Combat Air Rescue Squadron. After the reorganisation, the Combat Air Rescue Squadron will specialise in combat search and rescue operations on land and in the jungle.[9]
Special Operations Support Squadron
Combat support
The Special Operations Support Squadron provides all PASKAU squadrons with combat support.[9]
National Special Operations Force
In 2016, the main counter-terrorism operators in Malaysia were formed into a single special operation task force.[11] Several operators from FHRT of PASKAU were selected to be part of the National Special Operations Force. The National Special Operations Force was disbanded in July 2018.
Training and expertise
A PASKAU trainee in the Diving Phase being supervised by a USAF 320th Special Tactics Squadrons instructor.
PASKAU and USAF 320th Special Tactics personnel firing the Barret M82A1 (M107) sniper rifles during a tactical long range course as a part of Teak Mint 09-1.
It is not obligatory for HANDAU airmen to pass the commando school, it is however compulsory for Special Operations airmen. Since 1996, it is becoming compulsory for any airmen wishing to join the PKU (the then name for the PASKAU) to complete the basic commando course.[12] In 1993, the RMAF established their own commando course – the RMAF Commando Course (Malay: Kursus Komando TUDM). Prior to that, commando-trained RMAF Regiment airmen were required to pass the Malaysian Army Basic Commando Course offered at the PULPAK.
Currently, every officer and enlisted personnel are presented with a light blue beret and light blue lanyard once they pass the RMAF Commando Course, and a tactical knife after they pass the PASKAU expert course. They can then continue to complete further advanced training which allow them to take part in all operations.
On 6 May 2004, only 81 of 198 personnel who started the three month training program received their blue berets, including the best trainee Laskar Udara Meor Mohd Nazri Othman, 23, having survived the challenging three-month series 07/2004 Basic Commando Training[13] while in October 2007, only 20 of the 54 trainees successfully completed the three-month training program.[14]
RMAF Commando Course
The course lasts for 12 weeks and has six modules. In this course, trainees will learn land, sea and air insertion, jungle warfare tactics, sabotage and hostage rescue.[15]
Laser-designation – Using AN/PEQ-1 SOFLAM GLTD II, the units 'paint' hostile targets, marking them for attack by air-dropped laser-guided munitions such as the Paveway II LGB (laser-guided bomb)
PASKAU's establishment has increased the RMAF capability in special air operations such as Combat Search And Rescue (CSAR). It must also be capable of securing forward RMAF bases and be able to assist in the execution of airstrikes using specialist weapons. PASKAU consists of specially selected and trained RMAF regiment personnel. The role of this unit is very different from army Gerak Khas; or the navy PASKAL.
Identities
Sky blue beret
PASKAU operators armed with Colt M4A1 assault rifle providing security coverage for the USAF C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft during the Thunderbirds 2009 air show at RMAF Airbase, Subang, Malaysia.
The Sky blue beret is worn by all HANDAU airmen and later by all units in the RMAF Regiment, including the RMAF special operations teams and RMAF Provost squadrons. Initially, commando-trained HANDAU unit members wore the green beret with GGK's cap badge similar to the GGK but with HANDAU cap badge backing.[19] After RMAF Provost unit was separated from the RMAF Regiment, they were no longer permitted to wear the sky blue beret. Instead the RMAF Provost wear navy blue beret similar to other conventional RMAF units. All commando-trained RMAF Provost members are given a choice, either join the PASKAU and moved to RMAF Jugra Airbase or stay with the provost and their original bases.[20]
The sky blue beret is now only allowed to be worn by the PASKAU team members.
The cap badge position is worn facing left between the end of the eyebrow and above the ear – similar to all other Malaysian commandos trained elite units.
Light blue lanyard
Every member of commando-trained HANDAU was given with light blue lanyard together with green beret and Fairbairn–Sykes commando dagger once they completed their commando training at the PLPK (now PULPAK). The tradition of giving the light blue lanyard was inherited from the Malaysian Special Service Unit (MSSU; now known as 21 Grup Gerak Khas) which was originally from the 40 Commando, Royal Marines. The tradition was continued by HANDAU and later by PASKAU even after the RMAF established their own commando school in 1993.
Commando dagger
Since 2018, PASKAU has reissued the Fairbairn-Sykes commando dagger to its members. Every RMAF Commando School graduate is issued a commando dagger. Prior to 2018, PASKAU commandos who completed an advanced course received a tactical weapon instead of a commando dagger. The tactical dagger is a symbol of survival in the jungle.[21] Each graduate of a commando school in the Malaysian Armed Forces will receive a Fairbairn-Sykes commando dagger beginning in 2018.[22]
PASKAU shoulder tab
PASKAU operators wear shoulder tab embroidered with "PASKAU" on the right shoulder sleeve. Shoulder tabs are synonymous with elite forces in Malaysian Armed Force.
Fitted with the M203 grenade launcher, Brügger & Thomet Rotex V suppressor, FAB NFR EX rails, Steiner OTAL-A laser designators, MARS sight and various European-made accessories, similar to SOPMOD accessories.
PASKAU arms with Colt M4A1 SOPMOD passing the Malaysian Stripes of Glory to another men during the 65th Merdeka Day in Kuala Lumpur.
PASKAU sniper operator arms with Accuracy International Arctic Warfare fitted with silencer.
Target marking
To mark a target for an airstrike, such as radar or surface-to-air-missile (SAM) sites, sub-units must be able to infiltrate behind enemy lines. The target can then be 'painted' using GLTD II.
Security of important assets
The unit must secure critical RMAF areas from enemy ground attack. The task is made harder in forwarding locations and other hostile environments where the threat level is higher.
Search and rescue
Search and rescue missions, on land (on both sides of the lines) and at sea, are the responsibility of PASKAU. A wide variety of circumstances are usually encountered. For instance, when a Sikorsky S61 "Nuri" helicopter crashed on the slopes of Gunung Gerah in November 1989, reaching the wreckage required abseiling into the jungle. Other SAR missions are shown in the 'Recent Operations' section further down this page.
Counter-terrorism
Incidents involving hijacked aircraft and terrorists throughout Malaysia come under the remit of PASKAU. The unit is trained to solve the problem with the least effect on the passengers and aircraft.
Capabilities
Mobility
PASKAU is able to be rapidly inserted into an operational area by land, air or sea.
Flexibility
The group is capable of being deployed independently or as part of a joint task force with other special operations groups.
Sustainability
The unit is able to operate independently and conduct special operations for sustained periods without external assistance.
Technology
The group has access to high-tech equipment and weaponry to improve its ability to execute complex and demanding special operations.
Special training
The group employs specialised physical training that exceeds that of conventional forces. This is to ensure that operators are well-prepared to execute highly demanding Spec Ops-type missions. They are especially suited to classified missions involving small sub-units.
Mission and the future
The future direction for PASKAU includes the continuous expansion of the team expertise and roles as well as enhancing the team's effectiveness with newer and more capable equipment.
Recent operations
Operation Daulat
In March 2013, PASKAU commandos were deployed on a joint operation with all branches of the Malaysian Armed Forces, Royal Malaysia Police and Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency special forces to execute Operation Daulat. They conducted psychological operations against the Sulu terrorists by dropping leaflets to urge them to lay down their weapon and surrender to the authorities. The PASKAU commandos were used to paint enemies' target via GLTD for strikes by laser-guided bombs against terrorist camps at Kampung Tanduo, Lahad Datu.[25]
In July 2007, PASKAU, with the 10th Parachute Brigade, 22nd Commando Regiment of 21 Grup Gerak Khas and the Pasukan Gerakan Khas, supported by the United States Navy Air Fleet (from USS Jarrett (FFG-33)), Police General Operations ForceSenoi Praaq, Police Air Wing, Fire and Rescue Department, Forestry Department Rangers, Civil Defence Department (JPA3) and local villagers, were deployed in a search and rescue operation after a RMAF Sikorsky S61 'Nuri' helicopter went down with a crew of six near Genting Sempah, in the Genting Highlands.[27][28] The SAR team located the wreckage on 17 July at 1324hrs with its rotor blades detached. The bodies of all crew members were found in the cabin of the stricken aircraft.[29]
MALCON-UNIFIL 2007
PASKAU was part of a contingent which also included the 10th Parachute Brigade, Grup Gerak Khas and PASKAL which were deployed to assist the administrative workload at the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) headquarters in Lebanon which 160 soldiers including 3 Malaysian special forces as the Quick Reaction Team.[30][31]
Hawk 208 crash
On 27 June 2006, PASKAU was involved in the search for Major Muhammad Rohaizan Abdul Rahman RMAF after his Hawk 208 fighter crashed into the sea off Rompin, Pahang on 31 May 2006. The remains of the pilot were found on the seabed 28 days after the crash, 150 meters off the coast of Pantai Lanjut, Rompin, Pahang.[32][33]
Bukit Batu Tiban incident
PASKAU was involved in rescue operations on 28 July 2005, after a Hornbill Skyway Bell 206 Jet Ranger helicopter crashed in Bukit Batu Tiban, Ulu Baleh, Kapit, near the Sarawak-West Kalimantan border. Three passengers and the pilot died, one passenger survived.[34][35]
Brinchang incident
On 7 June 2005, 21 PASKAU and 35 VAT 69 of the Pasukan Gerakan Khas operators were involved in the search for four children who were reported to be missing on Fraser's Hill as well as another two persons who were lost on Gunung Brinchang in the Cameron Highlands. They were all found three days later.[36]
Piper 28 crash
PASKAU, together with the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) and the 10th Parachute Brigade of the Malaysian Army, were involved on 14 March 2004, in the search and rescue of the occupants of a civilian Piper 28 aircraft which had crashed. The aircraft went down in a heavily forested area 3.2 kilometres south-west of the Langat Dam, Selangor. The pilot, Captain Nasir Ma Lee Abdullah, was killed while the passenger, Nazarullah Mohd Sultan, was found alive.[37]
PASKAU boat capsizing
On 19 January 2003, a fibreglass boat carrying two senior officers and four servicemen from PASKAU capsized after encountering large waves in stormy conditions. This occurred during reconnaissance operations in the vicinity of Sibu Island, Johor at around 10:30 am. RMAF Majors Audrey Smith and Damian Sebastian, Sergeants Radzi Abdul Majid and Saad Che Omar were safely recovered while Corporals Hasnul Abdul Rahman and Ayub Sidek perished.[38]
Bukit Galla incident
PASKAU with RMP General Operations Force, the State Forestry Department, the Civil Defence Department (JPA 3), the Department of Civil Aviation and the Negeri Sembilan Fire and Rescue Department, were involved on 20 February 1999, in search and rescue operations after a civilian Beechcraft BE-36 aircraft crashed into the slopes of Bukit Galla, Mantin, Negeri Sembilan. The pilot and his passenger, Patrick Dutrey and Natalie Marie Chappate, were killed.[39]
Gunung Gerah incident
On 14 November 1989, PASKAU was involved in rescue operations after a TUDM Sikorsky S61 'Nuri' helicopter went down on the slopes of Gunung Gerah and Gunung Bilah near the Kelantan-Perak border. 21 passengers were killed, including 15 policemen from the General Operations Force of the Royal Malaysia Police.
^Major General Mohd Muslim Ayob (Ret'd) (2020). "From Handau to Paskau". Born In Hard Times - A Collection of Stories By Retired RMAF Officers. pp. 317–335.
Malaysia
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