[1][2] It primarily assists injured or stranded migrants who enter the United States illegally from Mexico at remote desert locations.

The BORSTAR Headquarters is located in El Paso, Texas, and units are stationed in each southwest Border Patrol sector.

[3][4] Officials in the Border Patrol's San Diego Sector asked for permission to start a rescue team to help agents and civilians who needed assistance.

[3][4] In 2007, BORSTAR was placed under the command of the newly formed Special Operations Group (SOG) together with the Border Patrol Tactical Unit BORTAC.

[3] In addition to assisting migrants, BORSTAR units have helped hikers, motorists, and other Border Patrol agents in need of rescue.