RESCORT stands for Rescue Escort, the escort protecting a recovery mission. It protects the forces tasked to reach and pick up isolated personnel. Within the NATO PR framework, this includes reconnaissance and fire support; the escort may also support communications, locating and authentication.
Reconnaissance and protection of recovery forces
The escort helps the Personnel Recovery Task Force (PRTF) carry out its mission despite a hostile threat. Reconnaissance provides information on the situation for the forces involved. Fire support may suppress hostile action and thereby protect recovery forces. RESCORT denotes this protective function, rather than the actual pickup of isolated personnel.
The escort may consist of fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, ground forces or maritime assets. The French PR model also includes moyens d’escorte, under the abbreviation RESCORT, as a possible source of support for recovery forces.
Communication, locating and command
Where their capabilities allow, escort forces may act as a radio relay, linking participants who cannot establish an adequate direct radio connection. They may also help locate isolated personnel and confirm their identity.
The escort commander may also serve as Rescue Mission Commander (RMC) when designated. In that role, the commander assumes planning and command of the PR mission and tactical control over the forces assigned to pickup.
Difference from RESCAP and the Recovery Vehicle
The Rescue Combat Air Patrol (RESCAP) has a particular focus: it establishes a favourable air situation or local air superiority and protects recovery forces against airborne threats. Rescue Escort covers escort protection through reconnaissance and fire support, with possible additional communications tasks.
A Recovery Vehicle is the platform that actually picks up and transports isolated personnel. The escort protects the forces, while the recovery platform and, where used, a ground team establish direct contact and conduct pickup.
Historical context: Sandy
In the history of US air rescue, RESCORT is closely associated with the A-1 Skyraiders known as Sandy. In the historical procedure, Sandy Low located and identified downed aircrew by radio and provided close air support when needed. Sandy High met the rescue helicopters and escorted them to the pickup site. The escort aircraft protected the pickup and then the helicopters' return flight.