View source for RMAF Special Forces

{{Short description|Special forces of the Royal Malaysian Air Force}}
{{EngvarB|date=March 2015}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2015}}
{{Infobox military unit
| unit_name                     = RMAF Special Forces
| native_name                   = {{lang|zsm|Pasukan Khas TUDM}} <br> {{lang|ar-ms|ڤاسوكن خاص تنترا اودارا}}
| image                         = Crest of the Special Air Service of Air Force.svg
| image_size                    = 
| caption                       = Official RMAF Special Forces crest
| start_date                    = {{Start date and age|2002|04|01|df=yes}}
| country                       = {{flag|Malaysia}}
| branch                        = {{Air force|Malaysia}}
| allegiance                    = 
| command_structure             = [[RMAF Regiment]]
| type                          = [[Elite Forces of Malaysia|Special forces]]
| size                          = 5 [[Squadron_(aviation)|squadrons]]
| anniversaries                 = 1 April
| garrison                      = [[RMAF Jugra Air Base]], [[Selangor]]
| commander1                    = [[Colonel]] [[Mustafa Omar|Muhammad Mustafa Omar]] {{post-nominals|list= RMAF}}
| commander1_label              = 
| garrison_label                = Headquarters
| nickname                      = "PASKAU", "RMAF PASKAU", "Komando Tentera Udara" ('Air force's commando')
| motto                         = {{lang|zsm|Cepat, Senyap, Pasti}} ('Swift, Stealth, Definite')
| colours                       = {{legend2|#87CEEB|[[Blue beret|Sky Blue]]|border=1px solid #AAAAAA}}
| colours_label                 = Beret
| identification_symbol         = [[File:RMAF Regiment Crest.svg|center|120px]]
| identification_symbol_label   = RMAF Special Forces Insignia
| identification_symbol_2       = [[File:Malaysian Armed Forces Basic Parachutist Badge.svg|center|200px]]
| identification_symbol_2_label = [[Parachutist badge]]
| march                         = 
| mascot                        = 
| battles                       = {{Collapsible list
 | expand = 
 | titlestyle = background:transparent;text-align:left;font-weight:normal;
 | title = List 
  |1=Gunung Gerah incident
  |2=Bukit Galla incident
  |3=PASKAU Boat Capsizing
  |4=Piper 28 crash
  |5=Brinchang incident
  |6=Bukit Batu Tiban incident
  |7=Hawk 208 crash
  |8=Genting Sempah Incident
  |9=[[United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon|MALCON – UNIFIL]]
  |10=[[Operation Enduring Freedom – Horn of Africa|Operation Enduring Freedom]]
  |11=[[International Security Assistance Force|MALCON-ISAF]]
  |12=[[Operation Daulat]]
 }}
| notable_commanders            = Major Hj [[Mior Rosli]] {{post-nominals|list= RMAF}}
| decorations                   = 
}}
The '''RMAF Special Forces''' ({{Lang-ms|'''Pasukan Khas TUDM'''}}, [[Jawi script|Jawi]]: ڤاسوكن خاص تنترا اودارا), better known as '''PASKAU''', is the special forces of the [[Royal Malaysian Air Force]] (RMAF; {{Lang-ms|Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia — TUDM}}). 

Its main functions are to carry out high-value target protection, [[forward air control|ground forward air controller]], [[combat search and rescue]] and [[Personnel recovery|rescuing downed aircrew]] assignments. RMAF Special Forces is also tasked as the principal anti-hijack response force for military and civil aircraft in Malaysia. This task was taken over from [[21st Special Service Group]]. All RMAF Special Forces members are [[Airborne forces|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.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=http://www.airforce.mil.my/berita/acara-rasmi/565-sejarah-ringkas-rejimen-tudm|title=Sejarah Ringkas Rejimen TUDM|date=25 February 2016|website=RMAF Official Portal|language=ms}}</ref>

RMAF Special Forces is one of the two combat units comprising the [[RMAF Regiment]] ({{Lang-ms|Rejimen TUDM}}).<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Kpl U. (W) Nur Nasuha Muhammad Nazim |title=LAWATAN KERJA PANGLIMA OPERASI UDARA KE PANGKALAN UDARA JUGRA |url=https://www.airforce.mil.my/index.php/en/information/news2/main-news2/lawatan-kerja-panglima-operasi-udara-ke-pangkalan-udara-jugra-2 |access-date=2023-05-24 |website=Portal Rasmi TUDM |language=ms}}</ref>

== History ==
[[File:60th Merdeka Day Picture 13.jpg|thumb|300px|RMAF Special Forces detachments dressed in the No.4 Digital Camouflage [[combat uniform]], tactical gear and [[Ghillie suit|ghillie suits]] parading during the 60th [[Independence Day (Malaysia)|Merdeka Day]] Parade at Sultan Abdul Samad Street in [[Kuala Lumpur]].]]The RMAF Special Forces were officially established on 1 April 2002, but their lineage traces back to the RMAF Air and Ground Defence Force, better known as HANDAU (an abbreviation of its Malay name), which was an infantry unit of the RMAF.<ref name=":5">{{Cite book |last=Major General Mohd Muslim Ayob (Ret'd) |title=Born In Hard Times - A Collection of Stories By Retired RMAF Officers |year=2020 |pages=317–335 |language=en |chapter=From Handau to Paskau}}</ref>

=== Origin: RMAF Air and Ground Defence Force (HANDAU) ===

The RMAF Special Forces traces its lineage back to 1974, following a [[Mortar (weapon)|mortar]] attack by [[Malayan Communist Party]] members outside [[RMAF Kuala Lumpur Air Base]]. Another mortar attack in 1979 damaged an RMAF [[De Havilland Canada DHC-4 Caribou|DHC-4 Caribou]] transport aircraft. These incidents prompted a specific directive from the [[Air Force Command (Malaysia)|Air Force Command]] to form a new [[security forces]] to take over the security of RMAF [[Air base|air bases]] from the [[Malaysian Army]]'s Malaysian Military Police Corps (now known as the [[Royal Military Police Corps (Malaysia)|Royal Military Police Corps]]).<ref>{{cite news |date=16 March 2018 |title=Teringat pangkalan 'dihujani' mortar 1974 |url=https://www.pressreader.com/malaysia/harian-metro/20180316/281874413931418 |work=[[Harian Metro]] |language=ms}}</ref><ref name=":5" />

The unit was drafted at the end of 1976 by [[Group captain|Group Captain]] Abdul Kadir Abu Bakar, [[Squadron leader|Squadron Leader]] Lai Kiat Meng, and [[Flight lieutenant|Flight Lieutenant]] [[Mior Rosli]]. Flight Lieutenant Mior Rosli was later selected as the unit's first commanding officer. [[Corporal]] Mahazir became the first airman to receive [[commando]] training at the [[Special Warfare Training Centre (Malaysia)|Special Warfare Training Centre]] in [[Malacca]]. Subsequently, more officers and airmen were trained, leading to the establishment of the '''''Pasukan Pertahanan Darat dan Udara''''' (the "'''Air and Ground Defence Force'''"), abbreviated as '''HANDAU''', on 1 April 1980. This new force was tasked with the security of RMAF air bases, and the first HANDAU squadron was named 102nd HANDAU Squadron. A small number of Malaysian Army [[Gerak Khas (Malaysian Army unit)|''Gerak Khas'']] commandos were attached to HANDAU as the RMAF Air Rescue Team.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":5" /><ref name="PASKAU">{{cite web |author=Ifwan Tun Tuah |title=''Latihan lasak jana komando elit'' |url=http://www.bharian.com.my/Current_News/BH/Friday/Skuad/20090130091040/Article/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091005135726/http://www.bharian.com.my/Current_News/BH/Friday/Skuad/20090130091040/Article/ |archive-date=5 October 2009 |access-date=3 December 2009 |publisher=Skuad}}In Bahasa Malaysia</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.facebook.com/1466708140021264/photos/a.1466711980020880.1073741826.1466708140021264/1860980387260702/?type=3|title=Air Rescue Team|date=1 May 2017|work=Malaysia special forces|format=Facebook pages}}</ref>

The HANDAU was reactivated on 1 June 2020, by the Air Force Command. Existing [[RMAF Provost]] Squadrons were restructured, with half of them being designated as HANDAU squadrons. This restructuring expanded their responsibilities beyond military police duties to include roles as air force ground forces and security forces.<ref name=":2" />

=== RMAF Security Regiment ===
On 1 April 1980, the 102nd HANDAU Squadron became the first unit to assume security duties from the Malaysian Military Police Corps at RMAF Kuala Lumpur Air Base. The '''RMAF Security Regiment''' ({{Lang-ms|Markas Rejimen Keselamatan TUDM — MAREJ}}) was established as the [[Command (military formation)|command]] headquarters for HANDAU squadrons. From the regiment's establishment until 1 March 1987, ten additional HANDAU squadrons were established.

{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ List of RMAF HANDAU Squadrons
|-
!Name
!Garrison
!{{Abbr|EST.|Established}}
|-
|102nd HANDAU Squadron||[[RMAF Kuala Lumpur Air Base]]||1980-04-01
|-
|103rd HANDAU Squadron||[[RMAF Kuantan Air Base]]||1980-11-18
|-
|104th HANDAU Squadron||[[RMAF Butterworth Air Base]]||1981-01-10
|-
|202nd HANDAU Squadron||[[RMAF Ipoh Air Base]]||1981-02-09
|-
|105th HANDAU Squadron||[[RMAF Kuching Air Base]]||1981-04-07
|-
|107th HANDAU Squadron||[[RMAF Alor Setar Air Base]]||1981-07-07
|-
|109th HANDAU Squadron||RMAF Aircraft Overhaul Depot (DEBKAT), Subang||1981-08-06
|-
|204th HANDAU Squadron||[[Kluang Army Air Base|RMAF Kluang Air Base]]||1981-08-19
|-
|201st HANDAU Squadron||[[RMAF Jugra Air Base]]||1987-08-27
|-
|208th HANDAU Squadron||[[RMAF Subang Air Base]]||1987-09-01
|-
|106th HANDAU Squadron||[[RMAF Labuan Air Base]]||1987-03-01
|-
|Combat Air Rescue Team
|[[RMAF Kuala Lumpur Air Base]]
|1983
|-
|Rapid Deployment Force
|[[RMAF Kuala Lumpur Air Base]]
|1983
|}

=== RMAF Regiment ===
Since its establishment in 1980, MAREJ has reported directly to the [[Air Force Command (Malaysia)|Air Force Command]] ({{Lang-ms|Markas Tentera Udara — MTU}}) for all operations involving the HANDAU squadrons. As part of the June 1983 reorganisation of the RMAF, MAREJ was transferred under the RMAF Air Operations High Command ({{Lang-ms|Markas Besar Operasi Udara — MABES}}, now known as the [[RMAF Air Operations Command]]) and was also renamed the '''[[RMAF Regiment]]'''. Additionally, as part of the same reorganisation, two [[special operations]] elements were introduced to the RMAF Regiment: the Combat Air Rescue Team (CART; {{Lang-ms|Tim Penyelamat Tempur Udara}}) and the Rapid Deployment Force (RDF; {{Lang-ms|Pasukan Gerak Cepat}}).<ref name=":1" />

In 1993, the HANDAU squadrons were renamed the [[RMAF Provost]] Squadrons. These squadrons were tasked with [[military police]] duties while also providing [[security forces]] for RMAF's air bases.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|url=http://malaysiatransformasi.blogspot.com/2016/04/hut-paskau-pasukan-khas-udara.html|title=HUT PASKAU: Pasukan Khas Udara|date=1 April 2016|website=Malaysia Transformasi|language=ms|type=Blog}}</ref>

=== PKU and PASKAU ===

In 1996, the special operations elements were merged and given a new name: '''''Pasukan Khas Udara''''' ([[Abbreviation|Abbr.]]: '''PKU'''; 'RMAF Special Air Service'). PKU's strength increased, and its role expanded to include [[Counterterrorism|counter-terrorism]], [[unconventional warfare]], and [[search and rescue]] missions. The unit also received training from the British [[Special Air Service]] and the [[United States special operations forces|United States Special Operations Forces]] for their new roles.<ref name="PASKAU" />

On 17 March 1999, PKU was relocated from RMAF Kuala Lumpur Air Base to [[RMAF Jugra Air Base]]. The RMAF Provost Squadrons were separated from the RMAF Regiment and placed under a new air force [[law enforcement]] department, the [[RMAF Provost Marshal Department]]. On 1 April 2002, 22 years after HANDAU's establishment, PKU officially changed its name to '''''Pasukan Khas TUDM''''' ({{Abbr|Abbr.|Abbreviation}}: '''PASKAU'''; 'RMAF Special Forces').<ref name=":1" />

On 24 January 2008, [[Ahmad Shah of Pahang|Sultan Ahmad Shah of Pahang]], was appointed as [[colonel-in-chief]] of the [[RMAF Regiment]]. This honour was bestowed during a ceremony at RMAF Jugra Air Base in [[Banting]], [[Selangor]], where the [[Chief of Air Force (Malaysia)|Chief of Air Force]], [[General]] [[Azizan Ariffin]] {{post-nominals|list=RMAF}} (later promoted to [[Chief of Defence Forces (Malaysia)|Chief of Defence Force]] in 2009), presented the [[Blue beret|Blue Beret]] of RMAF Special Forces to Sultan Ahmad Shah.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2008&dt=0125&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_07.htm|title=''Sultan of Pahang honored the Honor Beret''|date=25 January 2008|work=[[Utusan Malaysia]]|access-date=3 December 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080602072118/http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2008&dt=0125&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Dalam_Negeri&pg=dn_07.htm|archive-date=2 June 2008|url-status=dead}}In Bahasa Malaysia</ref>

== Structures ==
[[File:PASKAU Thunderbirds 02.JPG|thumb|right|220px|RMAF Special Forces commandos from the Field Protection Squadron were armed with [[M4 carbine|Colt M4A1]] assault rifles, providing security coverage for the USAF [[Boeing C-17 Globemaster III|C-17 Globemaster III]] transport aircraft during the 2009 [[United States Air Force Thunderbirds|USAF Thunderbirds]] air show at [[RMAF Subang Air Base]].]]
=== 1980–1993 ===
{{Tree list}}RMAF Security Regiment
**Air and Ground Defence Force (HANDAU)
***Combat Air Rescue Team
***Rapid Deployment Force
{{Tree list/end}}

=== 1993–2002 ===
{{Tree list}}RMAF Regiment
**RMAF Provost Squadrons
**'''RMAF Special Air Service'''
***Combat Air Rescue Team
***Rapid Deployment Force
{{Tree list/end}}

=== 2002–2020 ===
{{Tree list}}RMAF Regiment
**'''RMAF Special Forces'''
***Combat Wing Squadron
***Combat Air Rescue Squadron
***Field Protection Squadron
{{Tree list/end}}

=== 2020–2023 ===
{{Tree list}}RMAF Regiment
**'''RMAF Special Forces'''
***Combat Wing Squadron
***Combat Air Rescue Squadron
***Field Protection Squadron
**RMAF Ground Defence Force{{Tree list/end}}

=== Current structures ===
Today, the RMAF Regiment operates directly under the [[RMAF Air Operations Command]] and is based at [[RMAF Jugra Air Base]] in [[Banting]]. Here are the five main squadrons of RMAF Special Forces:

{| class="wikitable"
|+ RMAF Special Forces squadrons, responsibility and roles
|-
! style="text-align: center;" |Squadron
! style="text-align: center;" |Responsibility
! style="text-align: center;" |Roles
|-
|'''Special Air Combat Assault Squadron'''
|Pathfinders and forward air controllers
|The Special Air Combat Assault Squadron (SACA) provides the RMAF and Malaysian Armed Forces with pathfinders and forward air controllers. This unit, also known as '''RMAF FAC''' (Royal Malaysian Air Force Forward Air Controllers), can be deployed behind enemy lines via helicopter or parachute. They use AN/PEQ-1 SOFLAM Ground Laser Target Designation (GLTD) teams for forward target acquisition and tracking for attacking aircraft. Each mission involves six personnel with various specialisations, including cross-trained signallers, medics, weapons specialists, [[Bomb disposal|demolition experts]], [[Sniper|snipers]], and boatmen. This squadron was officially created in 2021.<ref name=":3">{{Citation |title=CARA NAK JOIN PASKAU {{!}} PASUKAN KHAS UDARA {{!}} SPECIAL FORCE TUDM |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5eSj3lMeq8 |access-date=2023-05-24 |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":6">{{Cite web |title=Pasukan Khas Udara TUDM mempunyai pelbagai skuadron penyelamat dan penggempur . Special Air Combat Assault adalah salah satu skuadron di dalam cawang... {{!}} By SFootageCrew {{!}} Facebook |url=https://www.facebook.com/SfootageCrew/videos/pasukan-khas-udara-tudm-mempunyai-pelbagai-skuadron-penyelamat-dan-penggempur-sp/624321472284500/ |access-date=2023-05-24 |website=www.facebook.com |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":7" />
Despite being a newly established squadron, it has a long track record as the '''Ground Forward Air Controller''' (GFAC), which was previously part of the Combat Wing Squadron. The Combat Wing Squadron was officially disbanded in 2021.<ref name=":3" /><ref name=":6" /><ref name=":7" />

This squadron functions similarly to both [[United States Air Force Combat Control Team|U.S. Air Force Combat Control Team]] and [[United States Air Force Tactical Air Control Party#Special Operations Force TACP|U.S. Air Force Special Operations Force Tactical Air Control Party]] within the [[Air Force Special Operations Command]].
|-
| '''Combat Air Rescue Squadron'''
| Land-based combat search and rescue
| The Combat Air Rescue Squadron (CARS; {{lang-ms|Skuadron Penyelamat Tempur Udara — SPTU}}) is capable of conducting [[combat search and rescue]] operations behind enemy lines. It consists of six [[Flight (military unit)|flights]] operating from air bases with Rescue Sub-Centres (RSC) located at [[RMAF Subang Air Base]], [[RMAF Kuantan Air Base]], [[RMAF Butterworth Air Base]], [[RMAF Gong Kedak Air Base]], [[RMAF Kuching Air Base]], and [[RMAF Labuan Air Base]].<ref name="PASKAU" />
CARS is equivalent to the [[United States Air Force Pararescue|U.S. Air Force Pararescue]] in terms of its capabilities and functions.
|-
| '''Force Protection Squadron'''
| Special protections, security force and counter-terrorism
| The Force Protection Squadron (FPS; {{lang-ms|Skuadron Kawalan Medan — SKM}}) provides security for high-value military assets such as [[Hangar|hangars]], [[Anti-aircraft warfare|air defence]] [[Radar|radars]], and [[Fire support base|fire support bases]]. Their responsibilities include protecting infrastructure and performing close or [[Bodyguard|special escort]] duties. For area protection, this squadron is equipped with the Field Intrusion Detection System (FIDS). Before 2021, this unit was known as the '''Field Protection Squadron'''.<ref name="PASKAU" /><ref name=":7">{{Cite web |date=2022-04-03 |title=PASKAU: TUDM’s elite special forces |url=https://mysinchew.sinchew.com.my/news/20220403/mysinchew/3680405 |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=[[Sin Chew Daily]] |language=en}}</ref>
Under the [[Capability Development 55]] (CAP55) plan, the RMAF Regiment was restructured in 2021. With the reactivation of the [[RMAF Ground Defence Force]] (RMAF HANDAU) in 2020, the responsibility for [[Security forces|securing]] air force bases was shared between RMAF HANDAU's squadrons and the Force Protection Squadron. While the FPS continues to handle security roles, its focus has shifted to sensitive areas and behind enemy lines bases. Additionally, the '''Hostage Rescue Team''', the RMAF Special Forces' counter-terrorist unit previously under the Combat Wing Squadron, was transferred to the FPS.<ref name=":7" />

The FPS is equivalent to the [[24th Special Tactics Squadron]] and [[United States Air Force Deployed Aircraft Ground Response Element|U.S. Air Force DAGRE]] in terms of its capabilities and functions.
|-
|'''Maritime Para Rescue Squadron'''
|Maritime-based combat search and rescue
|The Maritime Para Rescue Squadron is a [[combat search and rescue]] squadron specialising in search and rescue operations at [[sea]]. They operate from air bases near the ocean. Before 2021, they were known as the '''Maritime Pararescue Team''' and were part of the Combat Air Rescue Squadron. Following the reorganisation, the Combat Air Rescue Squadron now focuses on combat search and rescue operations on land and in the jungle.<ref name=":3" />
|-
|'''Special Operations Support Squadron'''
|Combat support
|The Special Operations Support Squadron provides all RMAF Special Forces squadrons with [[combat support]].<ref name=":3" />
|}

=== Deactivated squadron ===

==== Combat Wing Squadron ====
Originally established as the '''Combat Wing Squadron''' (CWS; {{lang-ms|Skuadron Sayap Tempur — SST}}), this squadron served as the primary combat arm of RMAF Special Forces, with other squadrons focusing on search and rescue and security duties. Based at RMAF Jugra Air Base, this squadron specialises in [[Counterterrorism|counter-terrorism]], [[Hostage|hostage rescue]], [[Infiltration tactics|infiltration]], [[sabotage]], and [[Covert operation|covert operations]] targeting high-value objectives. RMAF Special Forces's counter-terrorist unit, the '''Flight Hostage Rescue Team''' ('''FHRT'''), specialised in aircraft hostage rescue operations, is part of this squadron.<ref name="PASKAU" />

Under the [[Capability Development 55]] plan, the Combat Wing Squadron was disbanded in 2021, and the responsibilities of this squadron were shared between the Force Protection Squadron and the Special Air Combat Assault Squadron.<ref name=":7" />

== National special operations force ==
{{Main|National Special Operations Force (Malaysia)}}
In 2016, the main counter-terrorism operators in Malaysia were consolidated into a single [[special operations]] [[task force]]. Several commandos from the Flight Hostage Rescue Team (FHRT) of RMAF Special Forces were selected to be part of this National Special Operations Force. However, the National Special Operations Force was disbanded in July 2018.<ref>{{Citation |last=[[Hishammuddin Hussein]] |title=Majlis Pelancaran National Special Operation Force (NSOF) - 27 Oktober 2016 |date=2016-10-28 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlDBw_9L1ik |access-date=2018-02-28 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/zlDBw_9L1ik |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

==Selection, training and expertise==
{{multiple image
| align             = right
| direction         = vertical
| width             = 220
| image1            = PASKAU underwater training (090528-F-3695C-121).jpg
| width1            = 
| caption1          = A RMAF Special Forces trainee in the Diving Phase being supervised by a USAF [[320th Special Tactics Squadron]]'s instructor.
| image2            = USAF STS-RMAF PASKAU.jpg
| width2            = 
| caption2          = RMAF Special Forces and USAF 320th Special Tactics personnel firing the [[Barrett M82|Barret M82A1 (M107)]] sniper rifles during a tactical long range course as a part of Teak Mint 09-1.
}}

{{Main|Malaysian Special Forces Selection}}
It is not obligatory for all HANDAU officers and airmen to pass the [[Malaysian Special Forces Selection#Commando schools|commando school]]; however, it is compulsory for those in HANDAU [[special operations]] units. Since 1996, completing the [[Malaysian Special Forces Selection#Basic Commando Course (Military)|basic commando course]] has been mandatory for any RMAF personnel wishing to join the PKU (the former name for PASKAU). In 1993, the RMAF established their own commando course, the '''RMAF Commando Course''' ({{Lang-ms|Kursus Komando TUDM}}). Before this, commando-trained RMAF Regiment airmen were required to pass the [[Malaysian Army]] Basic Commando Course at the [[Special Warfare Training Centre (Malaysia)|Special Warfare Training Centre]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=13 March 2018 |title=Majlis Hi Tea Bersama MB Perak 2018 |url=https://www.facebook.com/wratacticalist/photos/a.275019182912761.1073741828.275000772914602/473553633059314/?type=3 |website=Wra-Tacticalist |language=ms |type=Facebook Page}}</ref>

The RMAF Special Forces selection process and training pipeline take place at the [[RMAF Combat Training School]], located at [[RMAF Bukit Ibam Air Force Base]] in Pahang. Established in 2018, the school assumed responsibility for the RMAF basic commando course from the [[RMAF Regiment]] at [[RMAF Jugra Air Base]] since 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Abd Aziz |first=Mohamad Azim Fitri |date=2019-04-30 |title='Selamat datang komando' |url=https://www.hmetro.com.my/mutakhir/2019/04/450388/selamat-datang-komando |access-date=2024-05-14 |website=Harian Metro |language=ms}}</ref>

Upon graduating the RMAF Commando Course, all participants receive a [[Blue beret|sky blue beret]], [[light blue]] [[lanyard]], and [[Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife|Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife]]. However, achieving operational status requires completing additional special operations courses.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |date=2021-09-08 |title=30 PENUNTUT KURSUS KOMANDO TUDM SIRI 28/21 MENERIMA PENGANUGERAHAN BERET BIRU PASUKAN KHAS TUDM (PASKAU) |url=https://www.airforce.mil.my/index.php/bm/informasi/berita/berita-utama2/30-penuntut-kursus-komando-tudm-siri-28-21-menerima-penganugerahan-beret-biru-pasukan-khas-tudm-paskau |access-date=2024-05-14 |website=airforce.mil.my |language=ms}}</ref>

On 6 May 2004, only 81 of 198 personnel who started the three month series 07/2004 Basic Commando training program received their blue berets, including the best trainee Laskar Udara Meor Mohd Nazri Othman, 23. Similarly, in October 2007, only 20 of the 54 trainees successfully completed the three-month training programme.<ref>{{cite web |date=7 May 2004 |title=''81 air force personnel complete basic commando training'' |url=http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2004&dt=0507&pub=Utusan_Express&sec=Front_Page&pg=fp_10.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110617080604/http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2004&dt=0507&pub=Utusan_Express&sec=Front_Page&pg=fp_10.htm |archive-date=17 June 2011 |access-date=2 December 2009 |work=[[Utusan Malaysia]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2007/10/4/central/18842884&sec=central|title=''54 sign up for training but only 20 make it''|date=4 October 2007|access-date=14 August 2009|work=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]]|author=Christina Tan}}</ref>

=== 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.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://airforce.mil.my/berita/acara-rasmi/1910-majlis-penganugerahan-beret-paskau-dan-penutup-kursus-komando-tudm-siri-24-2017|title=Majlis Penganugerahan Beret PASKAU dan Penutup Kursus Komando Tudm Siri 24/2017|last=Shahrizal|website=airforce.mil.my|language=ms-my|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170519234454/http://airforce.mil.my/berita/acara-rasmi/1910-majlis-penganugerahan-beret-paskau-dan-penutup-kursus-komando-tudm-siri-24-2017|archive-date=2017-05-19|url-status=dead|access-date=2017-05-17}}</ref>

# Camp Module
#{{Convert|160|km|mi}} Long-distance march<ref name="PASKAU" />
# Jungle Training Module
# Water Training Module
#{{Convert|120|km|mi}} Dark Water Module
# Survival, Escape, Resistance, Evasion (SERE) Module

=== RMAF Special Forces Expert Course ===
RMAF Special Forces operatives are capable of conducting operations using:
;Tactical
* [[Close combat|Close quarters combat]] – CQC
* [[Combat diving]]
* [[Counter-insurgency]]
* [[Counter-terrorism]]
* [[Counter-sniper tactics]]
* 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]])
* [[Marksmanship]]
* [[Sabotage]]
* Sang Moo Doo (multi-technique martial arts including [[Aikido]], [[Judo]], [[Karate]] and [[Taekwondo]])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2008&dt=1126&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Polis_%26_Tentera&pg=te_02.htm&arc=hive|title=''Sang Moo Doo defeating an enemy without weapon''|date=26 November 2008|access-date=28 August 2009|work=[[Utusan Malaysia]]|author=Zabry Mohamad Madzlan|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110617080259/http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2008&dt=1126&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Polis_&_Tentera&pg=te_02.htm&arc=hive|archive-date=17 June 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>
* [[Sniper]]s
* [[Unconventional warfare]]

;Insertion Techniques
* [[High-altitude military parachuting]] – high altitude low opening/high altitude high opening of parachutes
* Single occupant delivery operation module<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://malaysiamilitarypower.blogspot.com/2011/11/rmaf-deploying-single-occupant-delivery.html|title=RMAF deploying Single Occupant Delivery Operation Modul for its special forces unit PASKAU|date=30 November 2011|website=Malaysia Military Power}}</ref> – insertion via fighter jet
* Hover jump
* [[Rappelling]]
* [[Special Patrol Insertion/Extraction|Special patrol insertion/extraction]] – SPIE rig

; [[Intelligence gathering|Intelligence Gathering]]

* [[Special reconnaissance]]
* [[Counterintelligence]]
* [[Signal intelligence]] – SIGINT
* [[Long-range reconnaissance patrol]]
* Providing base security to [[Royal Malaysian Air Force|RMAF]] installations

; Expertise Oriented

* [[Combat search and rescue]] (The recovery of friendly units from behind enemy lines)
* [[Urban warfare|Operations in built up areas]] – OBUA
* [[Urban warfare|Fighting in built-up areas]] – FIBUA
* [[Urban warfare|Military operations on urbanized terrain]] – MOUT
* [[Hostage rescue]]
* Special demolitions
* [[Explosive ordnance disposal]] – EOD

During May 2009, RMAF Special Forces participated with the [[United States Air Force]] [[320th Special Tactics Squadron]] in an underwater search and recovery course as part of a joint training exercise code-named ''Teak Mint 09-1''. The USAF presented [[Barret M82|Barret M107]] [[anti-material rifle]]s for use by the RMAF Special Forces team.<ref name="PASKAU#Training">{{cite web|url=http://www.afsoc.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123151871|title=''Air Commandos Provide Underwater Training To RMAF PASKAU''|date=29 July 2009|access-date=14 August 2009|publisher=[[Air Force Special Operations Command|United States Air Force Special Operations Command]] (USAFSOC)|author=[[Technical Sergeant]] Aaron Cram}}</ref> Teak Mint 09-1 is a joint training exchange designed to enhance [[Malaysia – United States relations|United States – Malaysian]] military training and capabilities.<ref name="PASKAU#Training"/>

==Role==
[[File:2015 National Day Parade, Kuala Lumpur AB23.JPG|thumb|A [[sniper]] from the RMAF Special Forces is equipped with an [[Accuracy International AWM|Accuracy International Arctic Warfare]] sniper rifle fitted with a silencer.]]
The establishment of RMAF Special Forces has significantly enhanced the RMAF's capabilities in special air operations, including combat search and rescue (CSAR). RMAF Special Forces is also responsible for securing forward RMAF bases and assisting in the execution of airstrikes using specialist weapons. This unit consists of specially selected and trained RMAF Regiment personnel, and its role is distinct from that of the army's ''[[Gerak Khas (Malaysian Army unit)|Gerak Khas]]'' and the navy's [[PASKAL]].

'''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 RMAF Special Forces. A wide variety of circumstances are usually encountered. For instance, when a [[Sikorsky S-61A-4 Nuri|Sikorsky S61 "Nuri"]] helicopter crashed on the slopes of Gunung Gerah in November 1989, reaching the wreckage required abseiling into the jungle.

'''Counter-terrorism'''

:Incidents involving hijacked aircraft and terrorists throughout Malaysia come under the remit of RMAF Special Forces. The unit is trained to solve the problem with the least effect on the passengers and aircraft.

== Identities ==
[[File:65th Merdeka Day 2022 Picture 18.jpg|thumb|During the 65th [[Independence Day (Malaysia)|Merdeka Day]] celebration in [[Kuala Lumpur]], a RMAF Special Forces commando armed with a [[M4 carbine|Colt M4A1 SOPMOD]] passed the [[Flag of Malaysia|Malaysian Stripes of Glory]] to another individual. He was wearing a sky [[blue beret]] with the RMAF [[Non-commissioned officer|NCO]]'s beret insignia on top of a red [[RMAF Regiment]] beret backing, along with a tiger-stripe green [[combat uniform]].]]

=== Sky Blue Beret ===
All HANDAU personnel (officers and airmen) originally wore the [[Blue beret|sky blue beret]], and all units within the RMAF Regiment, including special operations teams and provost squadrons, later adopted it. Initially, commando-trained members of HANDAU wore the green beret with the [[Gerak Khas (Malaysian Army unit)|''Gerak Khas'']] cap badge, mirroring the [[21st Special Service Group]] but with a HANDAU [[Beret flash|badge backing]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pinterest.com/pin/345721708880191346/|title=Special Forces (HANDAU) (80's) Royal Malaysian Air Force|last=Paliousis|first=Nikolaos|website=Pinterest|type=Image}}</ref>

Following their separation from the RMAF Regiment, the RMAF Provost unit transitioned to a navy blue beret, aligning with other conventional RMAF units. The RMAF Provost personnel who were commando-trained then faced a choice: they could either join RMAF Special Forces and relocate to RMAF Jugra Air Base or remain with the Provost unit at their original bases.<ref>{{cite web |title=106 Skuadron Provos TUDM Labuan |url=https://www.facebook.com/1466708140021264/photos/a.1482992815059463.1073741830.1466708140021264/2078855395473199/?type=3 |website=Malaysia special forces |language=ms |format=Facebook pages |date=26 September 2017}}</ref>

RMAF Special Forces team members now solely wear the sky blue beret. Like other Malaysian commando units, they wear the cap badge on the left side, positioned between the eyebrow and ear.<ref name=":4" />

=== Light Blue Lanyard ===

Every commando-trained member of HANDAU received a light blue [[lanyard]], a [[green beret]], and a [[Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife|Fairbairn-Sykes commando dagger]] upon completing their commando training at the [[Special Warfare Training Centre (Malaysia)|Special Warfare Training Centre]]. The tradition of awarding the light blue lanyard was inherited from the [[Gerak Khas (Malaysian Army unit)#Malaysian Special Service Unit|Malaysian Special Service Unit]] (MSSU, now known as the [[21st Special Service Group]]), which originally adopted it from the [[40 Commando|40 Commando, Royal Marines]]. This tradition was maintained by HANDAU and later by RMAF Special Forces, even after the RMAF began conducting their own commando course in 1993.<ref name=":5" />

=== Commando Dagger ===

Since 2018, the [[RMAF Combat Training School]] has been issuing the [[Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife|Fairbairn-Sykes commando dagger]] to all its graduates, replacing the previous practice of awarding a [[Glock knife]] to RMAF Special Forces commandos who completed advanced courses. The Fairbairn-Sykes dagger is considered a prestigious symbol of belonging to an elite [[Commandos (United Kingdom)|commando]] unit.<ref name="Utusan311007">{{cite news |title=Azizul jalan kaki 3 hari 2 malam |url=http://ww1.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2007&dt=1031&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Polis_%26_Tentera&pg=te_02.htm |work=[[Utusan Malaysia]] |date=31 October 2007 |language=ms |access-date=18 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180718174633/http://ww1.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2007&dt=1031&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Polis_%26_Tentera&pg=te_02.htm |archive-date=18 July 2018 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2018-11-17 |title=4 pegawai, 53 anggota TLDM tamat Kursus Asas Komando PASKAL |url=https://www.airtimes.my/2018/11/17/4-pegawai-53-anggota-tldm-tamat-kursus-asas-komando-paskal/ |access-date=2023-05-24 |website=Air Times News Network |language=ms}}</ref>

=== ''PASKAU'' Shoulder Tab ===

RMAF Special Forces commandos wear a shoulder tab embroidered with "PASKAU" on the right shoulder sleeve. Shoulder tabs are synonymous with elite forces in the Malaysian Armed Forces. Prior to the unit's name change in 2002, all RMAF commandos wore a "HANDAU" shoulder tab, as the units that are now part of RMAF Special Forces were previously part of the RMAF Air and Ground Defence Force (HANDAU).<ref name=":5" />

=== Tiger-stripes Green Combat Uniform ===
The RMAF Special Forces, as a ground-based unit within the air force, wear tiger-stripe green combat uniforms as their official attire. This tiger-stripe camouflage pattern was previously used by the Malaysian Army until they transitioned to a digital pattern in 2013. Today, the tiger-stripes pattern is still utilised by the RMAF Special Forces and [[RMAF Ground Base Air Defence]] to showcase their ground-based combat capabilities.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2013-04-22 |title=Uniform Wajah Baru ATM Akan Diperkenalkan - Zahid |url=https://www.mstar.com.my/lokal/semasa/2013/04/22/uniform-wajah-baru-atm-akan-diperkenalkan--zahid |access-date=2024-06-18 |website=mstar.com.my |language=ms}}</ref>
and RMAF Ground Base Air Defence as a identity of their ground base capRMAF Ground Base Air Defence 
==Equipment==

{|class="wikitable" ; text-align:center;"
|- 
! Name
! Type
! Origin
! Notes
|-
| [[Glock|Glock 18C/19/34]]
| [[Semi-automatic pistol]]
| {{flagicon|Austria}}
| <ref name="PASKAU#Weapon">{{cite web |url=http://www.tactical-life.com/online/special-weapons/malaysian-special-forces |title=Malaysian Special Forces |author=Thompson, Leroy |date=December 2008 |publisher=Special Weapons |access-date=23 November 2009}}</ref>
|-
| [[Sphinx Systems|Sphinx S3000]]
| Semi-automatic pistol
| {{flagicon|Switzerland}}
|
|-
| [[SIG Sauer P226]]
| Semi-automatic pistol
| {{flagicon|Switzerland}}
|
|-

| [[Benelli M4|Benelli M1014]]
| [[Shotgun]]
| {{flagicon|Italy}}
|
|-
| [[Mossberg 500|Mossberg 590A1]]
| Shotgun
| {{flagicon|United States}}
|
|-
| [[Remington 870|Remington 870 Express / MCS]]
| Shotgun
| {{flagicon|United States}}
|
|-
| [[Brügger & Thomet MP9]]
| [[personal defense weapon|PDW]]
| {{flagicon|Switzerland}}
| 
|-
| [[Colt 9 mm SMG]]
| [[submachine gun|SMG]]
| {{flagicon|United States}}
| style="text-align:left;" | May be fitted with various different optics.
|-
| [[Heckler & Koch MP5|Heckler & Koch MP5A5 / MP5-K / MP5SD6]]
| SMG
| {{flagicon|Germany}}
| style="text-align:left;" | Fitted with various different optics and accessories.<ref name="PASKAU#Weapon"/>
|-
| [[M4 carbine|Colt M4A1 Carbine]]
| Assault-rifle
| {{flagicon|United States}}
| style="text-align:left;" | 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.
|-
| [[SIG SG 550|SIG SG 553LB / SB]]
| Assault-rifle
| {{flagicon|Switzerland}}
| style="text-align:left;" | Fitted with the [[SIG GL 5040]] grenade launcher, Brügger & Thomet suppressor, the EOTech G33 3X Magnifier and EOTech 553 [[holographic weapon sight]] optics.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2008&dt=1210&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Polis_%26_Tentera&pg=te_01.htm&arc=hive|title=''Sig SG 553 is a new rifle for PASKAU''|date=10 December 2008|access-date=17 August 2009|work=[[Utusan Malaysia]]|author=Zabry Mohamad Madzlan|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090603211834/http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2008&dt=1210&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=Polis_%26_Tentera&pg=te_01.htm&arc=hive|archive-date=3 June 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|-
| [[Accuracy International Arctic Warfare]]
| [[sniper rifle|Sniper-rifle]]
| {{flagicon|United Kingdom}}
| 
|-
| [[AMP Technical Services DSR-1]]
| Sniper-rifle
| {{flagicon|Germany}}
| 
|-
| [[Barrett M82#M82 to M107|Barrett M107A1]]
| [[Anti-material]] sniper-rifle
| {{flagicon|United States}}
| 
|-
| [[Blaser 93 Tactical]]
| Sniper-rifle
| {{flagicon|Germany}}
| 
|-
| [[Heckler & Koch PSG-1|Heckler & Koch PSG-1A1]]
| [[Designated marksman rifle|DMR]]
| {{flagicon|Germany}}
|
|-
| [[M249 light machine gun|M249 Squad Automatic Weapon]]
| [[Light machine gun|LMG]]
| {{flagicon|United States}}
|
|-
| [[FN Minimi|FN Minimi Mk.III]]
| [[general purpose machine gun|GPMG]]
| {{flagicon|Belgium}}
|
|-
| [[Milkor MGL|Milkor M32 MSGL]]
| [[Grenade launcher|Revolver grenade-launcher]]
| {{flagicon|South Africa}}
|
|-
| [[M203|M203A1/A2 Grenade Launcher]]
| [[Grenade launcher|Grenade-launcher]]
| {{flagicon|United States}}
|
|-
| [[SIG GL 5040]]
| Grenade launcher
| {{flagicon|Switzerland}}
| 
|-
|}
Retired weapons

•[[M16 rifle]] variant A1 & M653 Carbine - now use for training and ceremony

•[[Vektor SP1]] semi automatic pistol

•[[Heckler & Koch P9]] semi automatic pistol

•[[Heckler & Koch PSG1]] semi automatic rifle 

==Capabilities==
'''Mobility'''

:RMAF Special Forces 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 commandos 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 RMAF Special Forces 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, RMAF Special Forces commandos played a key role in Operation Daulat, a joint operation involving all branches of the Malaysian Armed Forces, [[Royal Malaysia Police]], and [[Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency|Malaysia Coast Guard]] special forces. RMAF Special Forces commandos conducted psychological operations by dropping leaflets urging [[Sulu]] terrorists to surrender. Additionally, they employed Ground Laser Target Designators (GLTD) to mark enemy targets for airstrikes with laser-guided bombs against terrorist camps in Kampung Tanduo, [[Lahad Datu District|Lahad Datu]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://malaysiaflyingherald.wordpress.com/2013/03/14/ops-daulat-putd-helicopters-have-arrived/ |title=Ops Daulat: PUTD Helicopters Have Arrived |author=Hafizuddin Sulaiman  |date=March 2013 |publisher=Malaysia Flying Herald |access-date=16 March 2013}}</ref>

===MALCON-ISAF===
Malaysia sent troops, including RMAF Special Forces, [[10th Parachute Brigade (Malaysia)|10th Parachute Brigade]], [[21st Special Service Group]] and [[PASKAL]] to Afghanistan as part of the [[International Security Assistance Force]] (ISAF) in [[Afghanistan]]. The team which consisted of 40 soldiers was deployed to assist [[Military of New Zealand|New Zealand Armed Forces]] in the peacekeeping missions and [[humanitarian aid]] in the [[Bamyan District|Bamiyan District]], Afghanistan.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bharian.com.my/bharian/articles/Misikemanusiaanberisikotinggi/Article |title=High risk of humanitarian aid |author=Hardi Effendi Yaacob |date=November 2010 |publisher=Berita Harian online |access-date=30 December 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110928061324/http://www.bharian.com.my/bharian/articles/Misikemanusiaanberisikotinggi/Article |archive-date=28 September 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

===Genting Sempah incident===
In July 2007, RMAF Special Forces, with the 10th Parachute Brigade, [[22nd Commando Regiment (Malaysia)|22nd Commando Regiment]] and the ''[[Pasukan Gerakan Khas]]'', supported by the [[United States Navy Air Corps|United States Navy Air Fleet]] (from [[USS Jarrett (FFG-33)]]), Police [[General Operations Force]] [[Senoi Praaq]], [[Royal Malaysian Police Air Wing Unit|Police Air Wing]], [[Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department|Fire and Rescue Department]], Forestry Department Rangers, [[Malaysia Civil Defence Force]] and local villagers, were deployed in a search and rescue operation after a RMAF [[Sikorsky S-61|Sikorsky S61]] 'Nuri' helicopter went down with a crew of six near Genting Sempah, in the [[Genting Highlands]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/printable.php?id=273594|title=''Mist, Rain Hamper Search For Missing Copter''|date=16 July 2007|access-date=2 December 2009|publisher=[[Bernama]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110604045025/http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/printable.php?id=273594|archive-date=4 June 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/printable.php?id=273438|title=''Search For Missing Nuri Enters Fourth Day''|date=16 July 2007|access-date=2 December 2009|publisher=[[Bernama]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110604045125/http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/printable.php?id=273438|archive-date=4 June 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> The SAR team located the wreckage on 17 July at 1324 hrs with its rotor blades detached. The bodies of all crew members were found in the cabin of the stricken aircraft.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2007/7/16/nation/18316892&sec=nation|title=''Villagers help in ground search''|date=16 July 2007|access-date=14 August 2009|work=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]]|author=Roslina Mohamad|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070909062202/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2007%2F7%2F16%2Fnation%2F18316892&sec=nation|archive-date=9 September 2007|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

===MALCON-UNIFIL 2007===
RMAF Special Forces was part of a contingent which also included the 10th Parachute Brigade, 21st Special Service Group 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 [[Rapid reaction force|Quick Reaction Team]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2007/4/18/nation/17471544&sec=nation|title=''Malaysia wants longer peacekeeping tenure''|date=18 April 2007|access-date=14 August 2009|work=[[The Star (Malaysia)|The Star]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090603163217/http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=%2F2007%2F4%2F18%2Fnation%2F17471544&sec=nation|archive-date=3 June 2009|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/printable.php?id=220972|title=''200 Soldiers To Play Role As UNIFIL Administrators''|date=20 September 2006|access-date=2 December 2009|publisher=[[Bernama]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110604045136/http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/printable.php?id=220972|archive-date=4 June 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Hawk 208 crash===
On 27 June 2006, RMAF Special Forces was involved in the search for Major Muhammad Rohaizan Abdul Rahman {{Post-nominals|list=RMAF}} after his [[British Aerospace Hawk 200|Hawk 208 fighter]] crashed into the sea off [[Rompin District|Rompin]], [[Pahang]] on 31 May 2006. The remains of the pilot were found on the seabed 28 days after the crash, {{Convert|150|m|nmi}} off the coast of Pantai Lanjut, [[Rompin District|Rompin]], Pahang.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/arkib.asp?y=2006&dt=0628&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=dalam%5Fnegeri&pg=dn_02.htm&arc=hive|title=''Mayat juruterbang Hawk 208 ditemui di dasar laut''|date=28 June 2006|access-date=14 August 2009|work=[[Utusan Malaysia]]|author=Ghazali Basri|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090603234326/http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/arkib.asp?y=2006&dt=0628&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=dalam%5Fnegeri&pg=dn_02.htm&arc=hive|archive-date=3 June 2009|url-status=dead}} In Bahasa Malaysia</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/printable.php?id=205469|title=''Body Of Missing RMAF Pilot Found''|date=27 June 2006|access-date=2 December 2009|publisher=[[Bernama]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110604045143/http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/printable.php?id=205469|archive-date=4 June 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Bukit Batu Tiban incident===
RMAF Special Forces was involved in rescue operations on 28 July 2005, after a Hornbill Skyway [[Bell 206|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.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/printable.php?id=147145|title=''Helicopter Crash: SAR Team Spots Signs Of Survivors''|date=26 July 2005|access-date=2 December 2009|publisher=[[Bernama]]|author=Edward Subeng Stephen|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110604045154/http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/printable.php?id=147145|archive-date=4 June 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/arkib.asp?y=2005&dt=0729&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=muka%5Fhadapan&pg=mh_01.htm&arc=hive|title=''Satu mangsa dikesan selamat – Laungan minta tolong 3 lagi penumpang nahas helikopter turut didengar''|date=29 July 2005|access-date=14 August 2009|work=[[Utusan Malaysia]]|author=Borhan Abu Samah and Izwar Abdul Wahid|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090603234321/http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/arkib.asp?y=2005&dt=0729&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=muka%5Fhadapan&pg=mh_01.htm&arc=hive|archive-date=3 June 2009|url-status=dead}} In Bahasa Malaysia</ref>

===Brinchang incident===
On 7 June 2005, 21 RMAF Special Forces and 35 [[VAT 69 Commando|VAT 69]] of the ''[[Pasukan Gerakan Khas]]'' commandos 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 [[Mount Batu Brinchang|Gunung Brinchang]] in the [[Cameron Highlands]]. They were all found three days later.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/arkib.asp?y=2005&dt=0609&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=muka%5Fhadapan&pg=mh_02.htm&arc=hive|title=''2 lagi hilang di Brinchang, 4 belum ditemui di Bukit Fraser''|date=29 June 2005|access-date=14 August 2009|work=[[Utusan Malaysia]]|author=Razak Din, Aizawati Ahmad and Sopi Samaile|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090603233846/http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/arkib.asp?y=2005&dt=0609&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=muka%5Fhadapan&pg=mh_02.htm&arc=hive|archive-date=3 June 2009|url-status=dead}} In Bahasa Malaysia</ref>

===Piper 28 crash===
RMAF Special Forces, together with the [[Department of Civil Aviation Malaysia|Department of Civil Aviation]] (DCA) and the 10th Parachute Brigade, were involved on 14 March 2004, in the search and rescue of the occupants of a civilian [[Piper J-3 Cub|Piper 28]] aircraft which had crashed. The aircraft went down in a heavily forested area {{Convert|3.2|km|mi}} southwest of the Langat Dam, [[Selangor]]. The pilot, Captain Nasir Ma Lee Abdullah, was killed while the passenger, Nazarullah Mohd Sultan, was found alive.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/arkib.asp?y=2004&dt=0318&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=dalam%5Fnegeri&pg=dn_01.htm&arc=hive|title=''Mangsa nahas Piper minum air jeram tanpa makanan tiga hari''|date=18 March 2004|access-date=14 August 2009|work=[[Utusan Malaysia]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090603234417/http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/arkib.asp?y=2004&dt=0318&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=dalam%5Fnegeri&pg=dn_01.htm&arc=hive|archive-date=3 June 2009|url-status=dead}} In Bahasa Malaysia</ref>

===PASKAU boat capsizing===
On 19 January 2003, a fibreglass boat carrying two senior officers and four servicemen from RMAF Special Forces capsized after encountering large waves in stormy conditions. This occurred during reconnaissance operations in the vicinity of [[Pulau Sibu|Sibu Island]], Johor at around 10:30 am. Major Audrey Smith {{Post-nominals|list=RMAF}} and Major Damian Sebastian {{Post-nominals|list=RMAF}}, Sergeant Radzi Abdul Majid and Sergeant Saad Che Omar were safely recovered while Corporal Hasnul Abdul Rahman and Corporal Ayub Sidek perished.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/arkib.asp?y=2003&dt=0122&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=muka%5Fhadapan&pg=mh_02.htm&arc=hive|title=''Two bodies of air force commando be found, one still alive''|date=22 January 2003|access-date=14 August 2009|work=[[Utusan Malaysia]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090603234016/http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/arkib.asp?y=2003&dt=0122&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=muka%5Fhadapan&pg=mh_02.htm&arc=hive|archive-date=3 June 2009|url-status=dead}} In Bahasa Malaysia</ref>

===Bukit Galla incident===
RMAF Special Forces with RMP [[General Operations Force]], the State Forestry Department, the [[Malaysia Civil Defence Force]], the [[Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia|Department of Civil Aviation]] and the [[Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia|Fire and Rescue Department]], were involved on 20 February 1999, in search and rescue operations after a civilian [[Beechcraft Bonanza|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.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/arkib.asp?y=1999&dt=0221&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=muka%5Fhadapan&pg=fp_02.htm&arc=hive|title=''Mayat juruterbang pesawat terhempas berjaya dikeluarkan''|date=21 February 1999|access-date=14 August 2009|work=[[Utusan Malaysia]]|author=Herman Shakri|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090603234316/http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/arkib.asp?y=1999&dt=0221&pub=utusan_malaysia&sec=muka%5Fhadapan&pg=fp_02.htm&arc=hive|archive-date=3 June 2009|url-status=dead}} In Bahasa Malaysia</ref>

===Gunung Gerah incident===
On 14 November 1989, RMAF Special Forces was involved in rescue operations after a RMAF 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]].

=== MH 17 ===
In 18th July 2014, following the tragic downing of [[Malaysia Airlines Flight 17]] over [[Donetsk]], [[Ukraine]], RMAF Special Forces deployed a team with Major [[Mustafa Omar|Muhammad Mustafa Omar]] {{Post-nominals|list=RMAF}} (known as Lieutenant Colonel), leading it to participate in a special recovery operation with [[SMART (Malaysia)]], [[Sapura Group]] (communication expert), medical team of Kor Kesihatan Diraja and forensics of [[Ministry of Health (Malaysia)]] also involve from management body muslim [[Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia]] 

The team, along with a group of specialists known as "The Dozen Persons", had the critical mission of repatriating the remains of Malaysian citizens, including crew and passengers, to their families in Malaysia. Additionally, they aimed to recover the [[Flight recorder|flight recorders]], crucial for the crash investigation.

==See also==
*[[Elite Forces of Malaysia]]
**Malaysian Army [[21st Special Service Group]]
**Malaysian Army [[10th Parachute Brigade (Malaysia)|10th Parachute Brigade]]
** Royal Malaysian Navy [[PASKAL]]
** Malaysia Coast Guard [[Special Task and Rescue]]
** Royal Malaysia Police ''[[Pasukan Gerakan Khas]]''

== References ==
{{Reflist|2}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category|PASKAU}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20141222223957/http://www.airforce.gov.my/organisasi/paskau/ Pasukan Khas Udara] [[Royal Malaysian Air Force]]

{{Military of Malaysia}}
{{Air force infantry}}
{{Terrorism in Malaysia}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:PASKAU}}
[[Category:Airborne units and formations]]
[[Category:Military counterterrorist organizations]]
[[Category:Military units and formations established in 1980]]
[[Category:Special forces of Malaysia]]
[[Category:Counterterrorism in Malaysia]]
[[Category:Air force special forces units]]
[[Category:Royal Malaysian Air Force]]