Joining requirements, roles of GSU Recce Squad vs Kenya Defence Forces

Just like the saying heroes come in all shapes and sizes, the famed Commandos we hear about in movies wear different hats for this country.

The GSU’s Reconnaissance Service, Reece Squad, and the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) are among the best-trained units in the country for handling tactical operations and terrorist embattlements.

On paper, the GSU Reece Squad and KDF are Kenya’s most elite security units, specially trained and equipped to protect the country from internal and external threats.

GSU Reece Squad Joining Requirements, Roles

In essence, the Reece Squad is a branch within the GSU, operating from its headquarters in Ruiru. Noteworthy, the GSU are a part of the National Police Service formations.

The Reece Squad is the most discreet branch of the National Police Service, hence why the exact tally of soldiers is unknown.

Young citizens wishing to join must participate in the nationwide Kenya Police Service recruitment exercise once the government announces it.

Successfully enlisted candidates will begin their training at Embakasi which could take up to 7 months. If they excel and show great talent, they advance to further training at Magadi Field Training Center, Solio Ranch or Ruiru College.

Afterwards, they are deployed abroad to countries like Israel, the USA, and the UK for advanced paramilitary training.

Their officers handle perilous and sensitive missions, with the Westgate, Garissa, and Dusit attacks being among the most memorable Kenyans have witnessed Reece Squad officers in action.

When it comes to dealing with highly specialized and technical weapons and tactics, the best police unit for the job is the Reece Squad. They are renowned in Kenya for swiftly neutralizing terrorists, often more quickly than regular police or military units.

These officers receive training in operations involving explosive handling, VIP protection, security gadget installation, and more.

The Reece Squad is divided into 3 cohorts;

• Sky Marshal Unit – Trained to deal with terrorists on a mission to hijack an aircraft in the air
• Crisis Response Team – Their most flexible unit, always on 24/7 standby to react to situations at any corner of the country
• Rendition Operation Team – Tasked to handle all top-level security matters that may arise in the country

Recruitment Eligibility Criteria

1. Must be a Kenyan citizen
2. Must be young, aged between 18-30
3. Must be fit and healthy
4. Must be a high school graduate
5. Must have no history of criminal offences
6. Minimum of D+ in KCSE, with a minimum of D+ in Kiswahili or English

Additionally, those who dream of joining the Reece Squad rescue teams must have excellent leadership and training records with extraordinary skills, surpassing the ‘average man’, in their duty as soldiers.

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Roles

1. Providing security to the president and statehouse
2. Offering protection to select foreign airlines
3. Giving security to strategic points and vital
4. Regulating rioting mobs and civil disturbances
5. Countering all forms of terrorism acts and insurgencies.

Allowances for such duties assigned to Reece Squad Commandos can add Sh. 25,000 extra to their basic pay, depending on the duties assigned.

KDF Joining Requirements, Roles

On the other hand, being named a KDF officer is more than just a title; it is a status signifying the role of protectors of Kenya’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. It is a difficult but rewarding career.

The KDF system is divided into three main groups:

• Kenya Army
• Kenya Air Force
• Kenya Navy

These cohorts undergo rigorous training during recruitment drives to ensure only the most capable individuals join the forces. Recruitment for the Kenyan forces happens annually.

Recruitment Eligibility Criteria

1. Candidates must be between 18 and 26 years
2. Candidates must be in excellent physical health
3. Must be medically fit
4. Must have healthy skin without tattoos or deep scars.
5. A minimum grade of D+ in KCSE
6. Have no previous criminal record
7. Possess a valid Kenyan National ID

Minimum weight – Men 54.55 kg, Women 50 kg

Minimum height – Men 1.60 (5ft 3in), Women 1.52 (5ft)

Roles

1. Protect the territorial integrity of Kenya by repelling external attacks
2. Provide aid during emergencies such as floods, fires and earthquakes
3. Assist and participate in nation-building activities
4. Being deployed to peace-keeping missions in foreign countries experiencing war
5. Perform during national holidays.

Both Reece Squad and KDF jobs are well-paying, with salaries varying based on experience, duties, work risk, and additional allowances. The Salaries and Remuneration Commission of Kenya (SRC) is mandated to determine the salary for both the KDF and GSU Reece Squad.

Disclaimer: Details provided are for informational purposes and thorough background fact-checking has been conducted.