VEHICLE COUNTER AMBUSH TACTICS
Overview of VCAT
VCAT 1
To survive a vehicle ambush you must immediately change the dynamic by establishing dominance over the adversary. Students will learn to use the handgun to counter “near ambushes” (distances under 25 meters). The class will cover the following topics:
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Demonstration of cover/concealment options around vehicles
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Counter-surveillance and pre-attack indicators
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Strategies to overcome near ambushes
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Live-fire shooting while seated in the vehicle - solo and pairs
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Exiting the vehicle under fire
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Engaging targets while outside of the vehicle
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Force-on-force scenarios to validate training
Prerequisite: Intermediate-level firearms skills and legally allowed to possess a firearm.
Handgun with 2+ magazines and 300 rounds of ammunition
VCAT 2
This is a continuation of VCAT 1 where students will learn to use a carbine to counter “far ambushes” (distances over 25 meters). The class will cover the following topics:
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Strategies to overcome far ambushes
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Live-fire shooting while seated in the vehicle - solo and pairs
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Deploying a carbine from the vehicle
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Engaging targets using conventional and unconventional shooting positions
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Use of “Fire-and-Maneuver” to conduct a counter-assault
Prerequisite: VCAT 1 and legally allowed to possess a firearm.
Handgun and 50 rounds of ammunition
Carbine with 3+ magazines and 400 rounds of ammunition
VCAT 3
In this advanced class, students will apply VCAT 1 principles to multiple realistic scenarios. Instead of shooting paper and steel, students will have to address hostile role players who actively move and shoot. Students evolve from performing rote "scripts" to a "problem solving" mindset in VCAT 3. The class will cover the following topics:
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Force-on-force VCAT 1 drills
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Disarming threats at extremely close quarters
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Dealing with mob violence while inside a vehicle
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Legal issues for use of force
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Scenario-driven exercises to test tactics and decision-making
Prerequisite: VCAT 1
No Live Fire; AirSoft pistols provided
This class takes VCAT to the next level. Drawing on skills from VCAT 1 & 2, students will fight under adverse conditions such as induced weapon stoppages and simulated injuries. The class will pressure-test the students in a safe training environment in order to help them maintain composure and prevail in a gunfight. The following topics will be covered:
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Modified VCAT 1 & 2 drills
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Clearance of stoppages: both one-handed and two-handed
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One-handed reloading
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Basic casualty care skills
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Stay in the fight while injured and dealing with injured teammates
Prerequisite: VCAT 1, VCAT 2, and legally allowed to possess a firearm.
Handgun with 2+ magazines and 150 rounds of ammunition
Carbine with 3+ magazines and 250 rounds of ammunition
VCAT 4
VCAT INSTRUCTOR
Those completing this capstone class will be recognized as VCAT instructors. Anyone who wishes to teach VCAT material should take this class as it demonstrates how to set up the drills in a safe and effective manner. Many lessons have been learned along the way while teaching this material; learn how to avoid pitfalls and maintain safety. Topics include:
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Classroom presentation on safety
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Running drills under evaluation by instructors and their peers
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Completion of a written exam is required
Prerequisite: VCAT 1 - 4
Handgun with 2+ magazines and 150 rounds of ammunition
Carbine with 3+ magazines and 200 rounds of ammunition
