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			{{Short description\|Israeli Air Force Combat Search and Rescue Unit}}
	]
			{{Infobox military unit
	'''Unit 669''' is an Airborne Rescue And Evacuation Unit ({{lang-he\|יחידת החילוץ והפינוי בהיטס}}, ''"Yechidat Hilu'z Vehat'zala Behethes"''), which is the name of the ] ] heliborne ] extraction unit.<ref>{{cite press release \|publisher = Asia Times \|date=2004-12-10 \|title = Israeli Air Force Special Units \|url = http://forum.atimes.com/topic.asp?ARCHIVE=true&TOPIC_ID=69}}</ref>
			\| unit_name = Special Tactics Rescue Unit 669
			\| image = IAF 669 Unit Patch.png
			\| caption = Unit 669 badge
			\| dates = 1974-Present
			\| country = {{flagcountry\|Israel}}
			\| branch = {{air force\|Israel}}
			\| type = ]
			\| role = ] <br> ] <br> ] <br>]
			\| command_structure = 7th Special Forces of Air Forces Wing
			\| motto = בצרה קראת ואחלצך{{Break}}Call upon me in times of trouble, I will be there for you and rescue you ]
			\| battles = ] ]<br />] ]<br />                ]<br />] ]<br />]
			}}

			]
			The '''Unit 669''' ({{langx\|he\|יחידה טקטית לחילוץ מיוחד 669}}, ]: ''Yechida Tactit LeHilu'tz Meyuchad 669,'' ] 'Tactical unit for special rescue') is a ] ] extraction unit, subordinate to ] of the ].

			It is based at ] with ] ''Yas'ur'' helicopters and ] with ] ''Yanshuf'' helicopters.

	==History==		==History==

	]
			]
	Unit 669 was founded in 1974, based on lessons learned from the 1973 ], when an ad-hoc medevac unit made some 5000 extractions. Its initial mandate was to extract and provide initial medical treatment to downed (and possibly injured) pilots beyond enemy lines. However, in later years the unit also participated in extraction of soldiers of other arms of the ], especially ] (]) fighters in operations beyond enemy lines and seamen in distress.
			Unit 669 was founded in 1974 by Yoram Shachar and Avner Ilnai, in the aftermath of the 1973 ], when an ad hoc medevac unit made some 5000 extractions. Its initial mandate was to extract and provide initial medical treatment to downed (and possibly injured) pilots beyond lines. However, in later years the unit also participated in extraction of soldiers of other arms of the ], especially ] (Special Forces) fighters in operations beyond enemy lines and seamen in distress.

			Unit 669 operated in the ], according to the Israeli Air Force.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Upon receiving the report of wounded following the infiltration of terrorists in Zikim, the soldiers of Unit 669 were rushed to the field. The forces worked to rescue the wounded under fire and mortar fire. Since the beginning of the fighting, Unit 669 rescued about 200 wounded in about 45 rescues \|url=https://twitter.com/IAFsite/status/1713164895586242859 \|access-date=2023-10-14 \|website=twitter.com \|language=}}</ref> During the war, the unit has carried out medical evacuations for wounded soldiers, and carried out 200 other operations since the beginning of the war.<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2023-10-15 \|title=Meet the Israeli Air Force's Elite Rescue Unit 669 \|url=https://www.israeldefense.co.il/en/node/59933 \|access-date=2024-03-17 \|website=Israel Defense \|language=en}}</ref>

			On 6 December 2023, two female soldiers passed the selection process for the elite Unit 669. They will be the first women to start their journey in the unit.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=In first, IDF to open elite search and rescue unit to women \|url=https://www.israelhayom.com/2022/05/30/in-first-idf-to-open-elite-search-and-rescue-unit-to-women/ \|access-date=2024-06-25 \|website=www.israelhayom.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news \|last=זיתון \|first=יואב \|date=2023-12-06 \|title=בצל המלחמה: 2 נשים ראשונות יתחילו מסלול ב-669, הגיוס לתפקידי לוחמות גבוה מהיעדים \|url=https://www.ynet.co.il/news/article/by1y7yar6 \|access-date=2024-06-25 \|work=Ynet \|language=he}}</ref>

			== Symbol ==
			The Unit's logo is a slinking and green-eyed black cat. The emblem has also wings. The Unit's warriors are subsequently sometimes referred to as "Cats" or "Flying Cats".<ref>{{cite web\|title=Unit 669 (Hebrew)\|url=http://www.yehida.co.il/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=19&Itemid=51\|website=Yehida\|access-date=11 July 2015}}</ref>

			==Recruitment and training==

			In order to be considered for service in the unit, candidates must have a medical profile between 82-97. Candidates who pass the initial commando units day selection, undergo a 5-day commando selection trial for ] / ] / Unit 669. Candidates who are accepted are enlisted in the November draft.

			Due to the possibility of having to fight their way to casualties beyond enemy lines, unit soldiers are highly trained in ] tactics and become highly efficient ground soldiers in addition to their high level of medical training. Their training and selection lasts 18 months and is considered to be among the most physically and psychologically demanding of the IDF. Courses that candidates must pass include:<ref>{{cite web \| url=https://www.iaf.org.il/4460-49224-en/IAF.aspx \| title=The Israeli Air Force : A Rare Peek into SAR Unit 669 }}</ref>

			*Basic training with the ]
			*Special operations combat training
			*Special operations combat medics' course (select soldiers continue on to paramedics' course)
			*Advanced land warfare including ], ], and ]
			*Counter-terrorism course in the IDF Counter-Terror Warfare School
			*Scuba Diving course and Rescue Diver course
			*Rappelling and ] course
			*Advanced helicopter ] and ] tactics
			*Rescue under harsh conditions
			*Parachuting course in the IDF Parachuting School
			*Advanced solo navigation
			*Commanders' course

			Upon completion of their training, unit soldiers are expected to sign on for an extra 18 months of service in addition to the standard three-year mandatory service. Cost of training is estimated to be 1 million ] per individual.<ref>{{cite news\|url=https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/humanitarians-in-uniform-603977\|title = Unit 669 alum Bar Reuven spent years training to save lives, not take them\| newspaper=The Jerusalem Post \| Jpost.com }}</ref>

	==Component==		==Component==
			]
	The unit is composed of three ]s:

	*extraction, which has a ] of ].
			A typical rescue team from 669 consists of a mix of 669 specialized warfighters and doctors. The unit itself is composed of five branches:
	*evacuation, which has a company of airborne doctors, paramedics and nurses.<ref>{{cite press release \|publisher = Jewish Virtual Library \|date=2008-05-26 \|title = Woman & Special Forces \|url = http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Society_&_Culture/womidf.html}}</ref>

	*technical support group.
			'''"Extraction".''' The "extraction" branch (]: חילוץ, ''Hiluz'') has a ] of advanced and specialized ]. These soldiers have passed the 18 month 669 training regimen, and have a fundamental medical background as well as the tools to execute complicated rescues on land or at sea, in peacetime or under fire.

			'''"Evacuation".''' The "evacuation" branch (]: פינוי, ''Pinu'i'') has a company of airborne doctors, paramedics, and nurses.<ref>{{cite press release\|publisher=Jewish Virtual Library\|date=2008-05-26\|title=Woman & Special Forces\|url=http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Society_&_Culture/womidf.html}}</ref> These medical personnel are critical to the mission by bringing advanced and specialized medical knowledge and experience to the injured, both in the field and in the air on the way to the hospital.

			'''"Training School"'''. Combat Search and Rescue and Air Crew Survival School

			'''"MIA"'''. Locating Missing In Action Combatants. Includes skilled field personnel.

			'''Technical support group.''' The largest branch, the technical support group is composed of non-combat soldiers who assist in logistics for the unit.

			==Operational activity==
			669 is the IDF's primary rescue unit. The mandate of the unit is to rescue downed pilots and execute airborne ] of critical casualties. Due to the unique specialties and high proficiency of 669, the unit may also accept various other ] missions depending on the needs of the Air Force and IDF.

			===Selected engagements===
			Unit 669 has been credited with hundreds of rescues. Some of the more high-profile missions are listed below.

			On September 15, 1997, the ] Naval Commandos sent an assault team to conduct a raid in Lebanon. The team encountered an ] and was ambushed by ] in what has subsequently been called the Ansariya Ambush. 13 of the naval commandos were killed and 3 were injured. Unit 669 responded by sending a team to evacuate the injured commando team, while taking heavy enemy fire. For bravery and performance under fire the 669 team received a formal citation.<ref name="autogenerated1">{{cite book\|last1=Zidon\|first1=Ofer\|title=The Israeli Air Force: An Inside Look at IAF Structure and Operations\|date=2014\|publisher=Fisher Institute and Israel Defense}}</ref>

			In 2003, 669 rescued ten Turkish seamen when they were caught in a heavy storm in the Mediterranean Sea. Under these severe weather and sea conditions, the 669 soldiers rescued and evacuated the sailors from their ship at sea.<ref name="autogenerated1"/>

			During the ] and ], Unit 669 made dozens of high-profile rescues of injured soldiers under enemy fire.

			During the 2014 military campaign ], 669 evacuated hundreds of casualties. These rescues, often under fire, earned the unit a formal ] from the Chief of Staff of the IDF.<ref>{{cite web\|title=Unit Citation, Unit 669 – Air Force\|url=http://www.gvura.org/a345619-%D7%A6%D7%9C-%D7%A9-%D7%99%D7%97%D7%99%D7%93%D7%AA%D7%99-%D7%99%D7%97%D7%99%D7%93%D7%94-669-%D7%97%D7%99%D7%9C-%D7%94%D7%90%D7%95%D7%95%D7%99%D7%A8\|publisher=Gvura (Heroism)\|access-date=28 June 2015\|language=he}}</ref>

			===669 Special Operators===

			The defining factor for an operator in Unit 669 is the ability to make difficult decisions under pressure. Due to the small-team nature of the unit, every soldier is expected to be a leader. All unit combat soldiers must pass a commander's course during their training. This is unlike typical IDF infantry units, where only a minority of the soldiers are recommended for the commander's course. After the 18-month training pipeline in 669 and once the soldier has collected combat experience, an additional advanced commander's course is required.<ref>{{cite web \| url=https://www.iaf.org.il/4460-49224-en/IAF.aspx \| title=The Israeli Air Force : A Rare Peek into SAR Unit 669 }}</ref> This intensive course is entirely mission-based, and instructs advanced ] methods and leadership. The advanced commander's course also functions as a selection process: the soldiers with the highest scores are chosen to be the next generation of small-team rescue commanders of the unit.

			The demands on these small-team commanders are great, including the ability to manage radio communications and issue orders simultaneously to pilots, ground forces, doctors, and their subordinate rescue soldiers. This must be done from inside the helicopter on the way to the target and on the ground after landing. Difficult decisions that can mean the difference between life and death must be made under fire and under severe time pressure, with imperfect information and no pre-mission preparation. Due to the emergency responder nature of the unit, the type of mission, time of day, and location cannot be anticipated. Therefore, these commanders and their soldiers must know all specialties from their training perfectly (diving, rappelling, etc.), because there is no time to review them when the mission siren goes off.<ref>{{cite web\| url=https://www.idf.il/en/minisites/unit-669/ \| title=Unit 669 \| date=2021-12-27}}</ref>
	==Operations==
	Due to the possibility of having to fight their way to casualties beyond enemy lines, unit soldiers are highly trained in special forces tactics, and become highly efficient ground soldiers in addition to their high level of ] training. Typically, their training lasts 18 months and are expected to sign on to an extra 16 months of service following their three-year mandatory service.

			==Non-military activity==
	In peacetime, Unit 669 serves as civilian medevac for hikers who have gotten lost or stuck and need extraction from Israel's deserts or canyons. These civilian operations, while expensive, help train the unit fighters for their battle-time roles. There is an ongoing debate whether extracted hikers should be forced to pay at least part of the extraction cost, especially in cases of hiker negligence or improper call for extraction. However, as of 2005 no such measures have been taken.
			]

	==~~Achievements~~==		===Domestic===
			During peacetime, the unit often helps rescue civilians injured during various catastrophic incidents. The unit has also served as a civilian medevac for hikers who have gotten lost or stuck and need extraction from Israel's deserts or canyons. These civilian operations, while expensive, help train the unit fighters for their wartime roles. There is an ongoing debate whether extracted hikers should be forced to pay at least part of the extraction cost, especially in cases of hiker negligence or improper call for extraction. In the past, the unit's recruits had also patrolled agricultural areas for illegal animal traps.<ref>{{cite journal\|title=The Cat goes for a Hunt\|author1=Sarusi, Neta \|author2=Vinter, Yarden \|journal=]\|date=July 24, 2009\|issue= 2998\|language=he}}</ref>
	Although not extracted by unit 669 a notable extraction is that of Ron Arad's pilot who was extracted by a random ] (combat helicopter). An unconventional extraction, to say the least, the Cobra helicopter flew to a hover just feets above the ground which allowed the downed pilot to grab and hold on to its landing skid whilst transporting him back over the border to safety.

			===Foreign===
	One of the unit commanders (1978-1980), Dr. ], later became a ], a ] member and Minister (Health; Transportation; deputy Defense Minister).
			Unit 669 soldiers, including reservists, were among the IDF personnel sent to ] in late April 2015 to take part in search and rescue efforts in the aftermath of the ].<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.matzav.com/200-israeli-soldiers-dispatched-to-nepal\|title=200 Israeli soldiers dispatched to Nepal\|date=26 April 2015\|work=The Matzav Network (matzav.com)\|access-date=27 April 2015}}</ref>

			In 2012, 669 sent soldiers to Bulgaria following the ] which targeted Israeli tourists.<ref>{{cite news\|title=Burgas attack: Israel mounts rescue mission\|url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4257661,00.html\|newspaper=Ynetnews\|date=19 July 2012\|access-date=29 June 2015\|last1=Reuven\|first1=Carmit}}</ref> In a matter of hours after the attack, the 669 soldiers were already en route to Israel with 32 of the wounded for treatment in Israel.
	==Note==
	Recently, an administrative error led to the first-ever female Muslim Israeli-Arab soldier joining one of the Israeli Air Force elite units - Unit 669. She had just graduated from her paramedic training course with top honors in the IDF, and was immediately placed with Unit 669. Subsequent investigation later revealed that an administrative error had been made, but due to her exceptional skills her commander was impressed with the woman's ability and achievements that he decided to allow her to stay, breaking all the rules.<ref>{{cite press release \|publisher = Middle East Times \|date=2008-04-11 \|title = First Muslim woman joins Israeli Air Force \|url = http://www.metimes.com/International/2008/04/11/first_muslim_woman_joins_israeli_air_force/7528/}}</ref>

			==Notable figures==
	Due to the sensitivity of the unit, Muslims and Arabs were prevented by IDF from joining as it fears a conflict of loyalties should Israeli-Arabs serve in Palestinian areas or fight Muslim states. But this case was clearly an exception on the grounds of the achievements and merits of the the Israeli-Arab servicewomen.
			*Former unit commander (1978-1980) Dr. ], rose to become a ], a ] member and government minister (Health; Transportation; deputy Defense Minister).

	==See also==		==See also==
	*]		*]
			*] – IDF Home Front Search & Rescue Unit
	*]
			*]
			*] – Brazilian equivalent

	==References==		==References==
	{{~~reflist~~}}		{{Reflist}}

	==External links==		==External links==
			{{commons category\|Unit 669}}
	*
			*
			*
			*{{subscription required}}
			*

	~~===~~Video ~~clips===~~		;Video links
			* {{youTube\|6-2rhlu6Fvg\|Get to Know the IAF's Special Forces Unit 669}}
	<!-- Please don't remove this as it is very rare to have any television footage of any IAF units. -->
			* {{youTube\|ySs8qfWOa68\|Israeli Special Forces – Unit 669}}
	*{{YouTube\|5929NBzRTN8\|Part 1: Blackhawks of IAF Unit 669 Airborne Combat Search And Rescue Squadron}}
	*{{YouTube\|2WgKm1hXkcc\|Part 2}}
	*{{YouTube\|qrTxsgEEJPw\|Part 3}}
	*{{YouTube\|UjHRtlohx08\|Part 4}}
	*{{YouTube\|UvhAEeCtFRk\|Part 5}}

			==Books==
	{{Israel-mil-stub}}
			* Itay Ilnai, (in Hebrew), Kinneret, Zmora-Bitan, Dvir Publishing, 2014
	]
			{{Israeli Air Force}}
	]
			{{Air force infantry}}
	]

			]
	]
			]
			]
			]
			]
			]

Latest revision as of 13:39, 25 October 2024

Israeli Air Force Combat Search and Rescue Unit

Special Tactics Rescue Unit 669
Unit 669 badge
Active	1974-Present
Country	Israel
Branch	Israeli Air Force
Type	Special forces
Role	Combat Search and Rescue MEDEVAC Direct action Counter-terrorism
Part of	7th Special Forces of Air Forces Wing
Motto(s)	בצרה קראת ואחלצך Call upon me in times of trouble, I will be there for you and rescue you Psalm 50
Engagements	1982 Lebanon War 2006 Lebanon War Operation Cast Lead Operation Protective Edge 2023 Israel–Hamas war

Military unit

The Unit 669 (Hebrew: יחידה טקטית לחילוץ מיוחד 669, romanized: Yechida Tactit LeHilu'tz Meyuchad 669, lit. 'Tactical unit for special rescue') is a heliborne combat search and rescue extraction unit, subordinate to 7 Wing of the Israeli Air Force.

It is based at Tel Nof Airbase with CH-53D Sea Stallion Yas'ur helicopters and Palmachim Airbase with UH-60 Black Hawk Yanshuf helicopters.

History

Unit 669 was founded in 1974 by Yoram Shachar and Avner Ilnai, in the aftermath of the 1973 Yom Kippur War, when an ad hoc medevac unit made some 5000 extractions. Its initial mandate was to extract and provide initial medical treatment to downed (and possibly injured) pilots beyond lines. However, in later years the unit also participated in extraction of soldiers of other arms of the Israeli Defense Forces, especially Sayeret (Special Forces) fighters in operations beyond enemy lines and seamen in distress.

Unit 669 operated in the 2023 Israel–Hamas war, according to the Israeli Air Force. During the war, the unit has carried out medical evacuations for wounded soldiers, and carried out 200 other operations since the beginning of the war.

On 6 December 2023, two female soldiers passed the selection process for the elite Unit 669. They will be the first women to start their journey in the unit.

Symbol

The Unit's logo is a slinking and green-eyed black cat. The emblem has also wings. The Unit's warriors are subsequently sometimes referred to as "Cats" or "Flying Cats".

Recruitment and training

In order to be considered for service in the unit, candidates must have a medical profile between 82-97. Candidates who pass the initial commando units day selection, undergo a 5-day commando selection trial for Sayeret Matkal / Shaldag / Unit 669. Candidates who are accepted are enlisted in the November draft.

Due to the possibility of having to fight their way to casualties beyond enemy lines, unit soldiers are highly trained in special forces tactics and become highly efficient ground soldiers in addition to their high level of medical training. Their training and selection lasts 18 months and is considered to be among the most physically and psychologically demanding of the IDF. Courses that candidates must pass include:

Basic training with the IDF Paratroopers
Special operations combat training
Special operations combat medics' course (select soldiers continue on to paramedics' course)
Advanced land warfare including jungle warfare, desert warfare, and urban warfare
Counter-terrorism course in the IDF Counter-Terror Warfare School
Scuba Diving course and Rescue Diver course
Rappelling and high angle rescue course
Advanced helicopter infiltration and exfiltration tactics
Rescue under harsh conditions
Parachuting course in the IDF Parachuting School
Advanced solo navigation
Commanders' course

Upon completion of their training, unit soldiers are expected to sign on for an extra 18 months of service in addition to the standard three-year mandatory service. Cost of training is estimated to be 1 million Israeli new shekel per individual.

Component

A typical rescue team from 669 consists of a mix of 669 specialized warfighters and doctors. The unit itself is composed of five branches:

"Extraction". The "extraction" branch (Hebrew: חילוץ, Hiluz) has a company of advanced and specialized infantrymen. These soldiers have passed the 18 month 669 training regimen, and have a fundamental medical background as well as the tools to execute complicated rescues on land or at sea, in peacetime or under fire.

"Evacuation". The "evacuation" branch (Hebrew: פינוי, Pinu'i) has a company of airborne doctors, paramedics, and nurses. These medical personnel are critical to the mission by bringing advanced and specialized medical knowledge and experience to the injured, both in the field and in the air on the way to the hospital.

"Training School". Combat Search and Rescue and Air Crew Survival School

"MIA". Locating Missing In Action Combatants. Includes skilled field personnel.

Technical support group. The largest branch, the technical support group is composed of non-combat soldiers who assist in logistics for the unit.

Operational activity

669 is the IDF's primary rescue unit. The mandate of the unit is to rescue downed pilots and execute airborne medical evacuation of critical casualties. Due to the unique specialties and high proficiency of 669, the unit may also accept various other special operations missions depending on the needs of the Air Force and IDF.

Selected engagements

Unit 669 has been credited with hundreds of rescues. Some of the more high-profile missions are listed below.

On September 15, 1997, the Shayetet 13 Naval Commandos sent an assault team to conduct a raid in Lebanon. The team encountered an improvised explosive device (IED) and was ambushed by Hezbollah in what has subsequently been called the Ansariya Ambush. 13 of the naval commandos were killed and 3 were injured. Unit 669 responded by sending a team to evacuate the injured commando team, while taking heavy enemy fire. For bravery and performance under fire the 669 team received a formal citation.

In 2003, 669 rescued ten Turkish seamen when they were caught in a heavy storm in the Mediterranean Sea. Under these severe weather and sea conditions, the 669 soldiers rescued and evacuated the sailors from their ship at sea.

During the Second Lebanon War (2006) and Operation Cast Lead (2008), Unit 669 made dozens of high-profile rescues of injured soldiers under enemy fire.

During the 2014 military campaign Protective Edge, 669 evacuated hundreds of casualties. These rescues, often under fire, earned the unit a formal citation award from the Chief of Staff of the IDF.

669 Special Operators

The defining factor for an operator in Unit 669 is the ability to make difficult decisions under pressure. Due to the small-team nature of the unit, every soldier is expected to be a leader. All unit combat soldiers must pass a commander's course during their training. This is unlike typical IDF infantry units, where only a minority of the soldiers are recommended for the commander's course. After the 18-month training pipeline in 669 and once the soldier has collected combat experience, an additional advanced commander's course is required. This intensive course is entirely mission-based, and instructs advanced command and control methods and leadership. The advanced commander's course also functions as a selection process: the soldiers with the highest scores are chosen to be the next generation of small-team rescue commanders of the unit.

The demands on these small-team commanders are great, including the ability to manage radio communications and issue orders simultaneously to pilots, ground forces, doctors, and their subordinate rescue soldiers. This must be done from inside the helicopter on the way to the target and on the ground after landing. Difficult decisions that can mean the difference between life and death must be made under fire and under severe time pressure, with imperfect information and no pre-mission preparation. Due to the emergency responder nature of the unit, the type of mission, time of day, and location cannot be anticipated. Therefore, these commanders and their soldiers must know all specialties from their training perfectly (diving, rappelling, etc.), because there is no time to review them when the mission siren goes off.

Non-military activity

Domestic

During peacetime, the unit often helps rescue civilians injured during various catastrophic incidents. The unit has also served as a civilian medevac for hikers who have gotten lost or stuck and need extraction from Israel's deserts or canyons. These civilian operations, while expensive, help train the unit fighters for their wartime roles. There is an ongoing debate whether extracted hikers should be forced to pay at least part of the extraction cost, especially in cases of hiker negligence or improper call for extraction. In the past, the unit's recruits had also patrolled agricultural areas for illegal animal traps.

Foreign

Unit 669 soldiers, including reservists, were among the IDF personnel sent to Nepal in late April 2015 to take part in search and rescue efforts in the aftermath of the earthquake and subsequent avalanches.

In 2012, 669 sent soldiers to Bulgaria following the Burgas bus bombing which targeted Israeli tourists. In a matter of hours after the attack, the 669 soldiers were already en route to Israel with 32 of the wounded for treatment in Israel.

Notable figures

Former unit commander (1978-1980) Dr. Efraim Sneh, rose to become a Brigadier General, a Knesset member and government minister (Health; Transportation; deputy Defense Minister).

References

"Upon receiving the report of wounded following the infiltration of terrorists in Zikim, the soldiers of Unit 669 were rushed to the field. The forces worked to rescue the wounded under fire and mortar fire. Since the beginning of the fighting, Unit 669 rescued about 200 wounded in about 45 rescues". twitter.com. Retrieved 2023-10-14.
"Meet the Israeli Air Force's Elite Rescue Unit 669". Israel Defense. 2023-10-15. Retrieved 2024-03-17.
"In first, IDF to open elite search and rescue unit to women". www.israelhayom.com. Retrieved 2024-06-25.
זיתון, יואב (2023-12-06). "בצל המלחמה: 2 נשים ראשונות יתחילו מסלול ב-669, הגיוס לתפקידי לוחמות גבוה מהיעדים". Ynet (in Hebrew). Retrieved 2024-06-25.
"Unit 669 (Hebrew)". Yehida. Retrieved 11 July 2015.
"The Israeli Air Force : A Rare Peek into SAR Unit 669".
"Unit 669 alum Bar Reuven spent years training to save lives, not take them". The Jerusalem Post | Jpost.com.
"Woman & Special Forces" (Press release). Jewish Virtual Library. 2008-05-26.
^ Zidon, Ofer (2014). The Israeli Air Force: An Inside Look at IAF Structure and Operations. Fisher Institute and Israel Defense.
"Unit Citation, Unit 669 – Air Force" (in Hebrew). Gvura (Heroism). Retrieved 28 June 2015.
"The Israeli Air Force : A Rare Peek into SAR Unit 669".
"Unit 669". 2021-12-27.
Sarusi, Neta; Vinter, Yarden (July 24, 2009). "The Cat goes for a Hunt". Bamahane (in Hebrew) (2998).
"200 Israeli soldiers dispatched to Nepal". The Matzav Network (matzav.com). 26 April 2015. Retrieved 27 April 2015.
Reuven, Carmit (19 July 2012). "Burgas attack: Israel mounts rescue mission". Ynetnews. Retrieved 29 June 2015.

External links

Video links

Books

Itay Ilnai, 669 – A Tale of a Special Unit (in Hebrew), Kinneret, Zmora-Bitan, Dvir Publishing, 2014

v t e Israeli Air Force
History	History of the Israeli Air Force List of Israeli flying aces Sherut Avir Israeli Air Force Museum
Prominent operations	Focus Gift Many Ways Opera Outside the Box Rooster Wooden Leg
Branches and components	Air Intelligence Group Air Defense Command
Air bases (N to S)	Ramat David Ein Shemer Palmachim Tel Nof Hatzor Sdot Micha Hatzerim Nevatim Ramon Ovda
Formations and units	Aircraft squadrons Flight academy Shaldag 669 Ofek
Equipment	Aircraft Munitions

v t e Air force ground forces and special forces
Current	Special Operations Group Airfield Defence Guards B Flight Combat Control Team (CCT), No. 4 Squadron RAAF Para-SAR Agrupación Antisecuestros Aéreos Comandos de Aviación PLAAF Airborne Corps Fusiliers Commandos de l'Air German Air Force Regiment 31st Search and Rescue Operations Squadron Hellenic Air Force Police Garud Commando Force Bravo Detachment 90 Kopasgat Yehidat Shaldag Unit 669 17º Stormo Incursori RMAF Regiment RNZAF Security Forces Special Service Wing 710th Special Operations Wing Polícia Aérea Sri Lanka Air Force Regiment Swedish Air Force Rangers Parachute Reconnaissance Company 17 RTAF Security Force Command Special Operations Regiment Combat Search and Rescue RAF Regiment USAF Security Forces USAF Air Support Operations Squadrons USAF Special Tactics Squadrons
Defunct	Fallschirmjäger Luftwaffe Field Divisions Royal Air Force Commandos Unit 684

Air force ground forces and special forces

Current