Tactical Unit

The Ottawa Police Tactical Unit responds to calls related to disturbed persons, explosives as well as executing warrants for specialty units such as the Drug Unit, Guns & Gangs Section, Internet Child Exploitation Unit, and more etc…)

Becoming a Tactical Unit member isn’t easy. It is a physically demanding job, which requires dedication, teamwork and a strong work ethic. Our Tactical members have very specialized skills such as sniper training, rappelling and explosives. To join the Tactical Unit, internal applicants must achieve a score of 90% in the Ontario Police Fitness test. They must then pass a “job specific” physical test which incorporates a lot of the activities in which a tactical member is expected to perform on a daily basis. Candidates who successfully complete the physical tests then proceed to an interview and those who successfully complete these three phases, attend a very demanding process known as ‘Selection Week’. Tactical Unit applicants who pass Selection Week must then also endure and pass a physically and mentally challenging 12-week Tactical Hostage Rescue Course.

We’re often asked ‘What’s the difference between Tactical and SWAT?’ For the Ottawa Police, the preferred terminology is ‘Tactical Unit’, however, SWAT (an American term which stands for Special Weapons And Tactics) is the same thing.

The Robot in this picture is the Remotec Andros F6A and its main function is for explosive disposal however it is also capable of delivering various items required in tactical operations such as negotiator throw phone, food and beverage and has a remote surveillance capability.

 

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