KAMPFSCHWIMMER
GERMAN NAVY SPECIAL FORCES | COMBAT SWIMMERS
“Vom Wasser aus ans Land” (From Water to Land)
Unit Overview
The Kampfschwimmer (Combat Swimmers) are the German Navy’s special forces unit, specializing in maritime counter-terrorism, underwater demolitions, reconnaissance, and direct action missions from the sea.
With roots dating back to World War II frogmen units, the modern Kampfschwimmer were established during the Cold War to conduct sabotage and reconnaissance missions against Warsaw Pact forces. Today, they are Germany’s primary maritime special operations force.
Maritime Equipment
- HK G36K Assault Rifle
- HK P11 Underwater Pistol
- SEAL Delivery Vehicle Mini-Submarine
- Dräger LAR V Rebreather System
Major Operations
Deployment to the Adriatic Sea during the Yugoslav Wars, conducting maritime interdiction and reconnaissance operations.
Maritime security operations in the Horn of Africa and Indian Ocean as part of counter-piracy and counter-terrorism efforts.
NATO maritime security operations in the Mediterranean, including counter-terrorism and migrant smuggling interdiction.
CLASSIFIED: Training & Capabilities
Kampfschwimmer training lasts approximately 2 years and is considered one of the most demanding military courses in the world. It includes combat diving (both open and closed circuit), underwater demolitions, small boat handling, parachuting (including HALO/HAHO), and Arctic warfare training.
The unit is organized into 3 operational companies, each with specialized capabilities: 1st Company (Diving/Underwater Operations), 2nd Company (Boat/Surface Operations), and 3rd Company (Airborne/Parachute Operations). All operators are cross-trained in multiple disciplines. The Kampfschwimmer maintain close ties with other NATO naval special forces, particularly the U.S. Navy SEALs and British SBS.
