UNIT 669
ISRAELI AIR FORCE | COMBAT SEARCH AND RESCUE
“Leave No One Behind”
Unit Overview
Unit 669 is the Israel Defense Forces’ elite combat search and rescue (CSAR) and tactical evacuation (TACEVAC) unit, operating under the Israeli Air Force. It is one of Israel’s most secretive and highly trained special forces units.
The unit specializes in rescuing downed pilots and soldiers from behind enemy lines, often under fire. Unlike most CSAR units worldwide, 669 operators are both elite combat soldiers and highly trained paramedics capable of performing advanced medical procedures in combat zones.
Rescue Equipment
- M4 Carbine Assault Rifle
- Sikorsky CH-53 Heavy Lift Helicopter
- Advanced Medical Kits Field Surgery Equipment
- Night Vision Goggles AN/AVS-9
Notable Rescues
Multiple successful extractions of downed pilots from hostile territory, establishing the unit’s reputation for daring rescues.
Rescue operations under heavy fire, including the extraction of wounded soldiers from Bint Jbeil and Maroun al-Ras.
Continuous CSAR operations in Gaza, including the rescue of soldiers during the Battle of Shuja’iyya.
CLASSIFIED: Training & Capabilities
Unit 669’s 24-month training pipeline includes: 4 months of basic infantry, 2 months of advanced infantry, 5 months of paramedic training (equivalent to civilian paramedic certification), 3 weeks of parachute school, and specialized training in helicopter operations, combat diving, and mountain rescue.
Operators are trained to perform emergency surgical procedures in the field, including chest decompressions, tracheotomies, and administering blood products. The unit maintains a 24/7 readiness posture, with teams capable of launching within minutes of receiving a distress call.
