EGB Forces

The EGB Forces (Specialized Army Forces with Expanded Capabilities) (German: Spezialisierte Kräfte des Heeres mit Erweiterter Grundbefähigung) is a specialized operations force of the German Bundeswehr, organized under the Rapid Forces Division.

EGB Forces
Spezialisierte Kräfte des Heeres mit Erweiterter Grundbefähigung (EGB)
EGB unit badge
Active	2007–present
Country	Germany
Branch	German Army
Type	Special forces
Role	Airborne operations Counterinsurgency Direct Action Intelligence Operations QRF capabilities
Part of	Rapid Forces Division
Garrison/HQ	Seedorf Zweibrücken
Mottos	Speed, surprise & violence of action

Background

In 2007 EGB Forces were established as a light infantry unit to close the gap between conventional infantry units and the Kommando Spezialkräfte.^[1] Therefore, each of the four paratrooper battalions established one specialized company to serve as an enhanced-skilled company. These battalions are now two regiments with companies.

In 2015 the specialized reconnaissance unit Fernspählehrkompanie 200 was merged with parts of the reconnaissance platoons of the brigade's recce companies.

Selection and training

Personnel of all branches of the Bundeswehr may apply for the EGB Forces.

Prerequisites

• Minimum of four years of enlistment
• Completion of basic training and occupational specific training
• Completed security clearance
• Excellent physical fitness

Selection process

EGB Forces qualification badge

Completion of several tests which include an obstacle course, ruck march, swimming tests and numerous tests of physical or mental stamina. Successful completion of the selection process is followed by training for the occupation in the EGB Forces in the special operations school in Pfullendorf.^[2]

Training Before serving in the EGB Forces, soldiers attend a six-month training cycle which includes

• Advanced training in firearms
• Specialized infantry tactics
• Combatives
• Medical training
• SERE training

Upon completion of the training cycle, soldiers are awarded with the EGB Forces qualification badge and receive the Combat-Ready-status. Afterwards they are assigned to an EGB company.

During their career, soldiers of EGB Forces may receive advanced training in communications, weapons training, demolitions, advanced medical training, mountain training or training in amphibious operations.

Mission and deployments

Tasks of EGB forces may include

• Personnel recovery
• Quick reaction force
• Direct action
• Assistance of national or international special operations forces^[3]

Since their establishment EGB Forces were involved in Afghanistan as part of the International Security Assistance Force, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali and as part of a capacity building mission in northern Iraq.

See also

• 75th Ranger Regiment