The Philippine National Police (PNP) Special Action Force’s Rapid Deployment Battalion showcased their exceptional skills at the fifth annual UAE SWAT Challenge held in Dubai, UAE. This prestigious event, which ran from the start of February and concluded on February 7, 2024, is known for drawing elite SWAT teams from around the globe to participate in a series of grueling challenges designed to test their tactical techniques, mental acuity, and physical endurance.
Under the leadership of PLT Gerald Gamboa, the 10-member Philippine delegation went head-to-head against some of the world’s most skilled units. The UAE SWAT Challenge, hosted by the Dubai Police, serves as a platform not just for competition but also for fostering exchanges of skills and building cooperation among international SWAT teams.
The Challenge concluded with Dubai Police securing the top two spots, underscoring their high level of preparation and skill. The event featured various tests, with the final day, the Obstacle Challenge, seeing the RNP SWAT Team from Rwanda, Department of Special Force KALKAN from Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan Police achieving top places.
Overall, the competition was fierce, with Team B clinching the first place with an impressive score across categories such as hostage rescue, tactical shooting, and obstacle navigation. Dubai Police Team A and Team SARDAR from Kazakhstan followed closely in second and third places, respectively. The achievements of the winners were celebrated in a grand ceremony attended by His Excellency Major General Abdullah Ali Al Ghaithi, senior officers, and representatives from various countries.
