MEU(SOC) - CH-46E Fast-rope

Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU(SOC)) and Israelie Defense Force (IDF) soldiers fastrope from a CH-46E helicopter.

Fast-roping is a technique developed by the British SBS (Special Boat Service) and was first used in combat during the Falklands conflict in 1982.

The skill was quickly aquired by US Special Operations Forces.

A MEU(SOC) is a MEU that has been trained and operationally qualified to perform special operational duties.

In more recent times, an MEU's small scale special mission role has been assigned to its Maritime Raid Force (MRF), a formation of Force Recon, Division Recon and other diverse elements.

Larger-scale / sustained special operations will be undertaken by the attached Marine Special Operations Comany (MSOC).