EGB Forces


EGB Forces (German Spezialisierte Kräfte des Heeres mit Erweiterter Grundbefähigung für Spezielle Operationen is a special operations force of the German Bundeswehr, organized under the Rapid Forces Division.

Background

In 2007 EGB Forces were established as a light infantry unit to close the gap between conventional infantry units and the elite special forces.
Therefore, each of the four paratrooper battalions established one specialized company to serve as an enhanced-skilled company. This battailions 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 comapanies.

Selection and training

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

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