As part of personnel recovery Kampfretter units are tasked with the recovery of air crews and personnel in hazardous regions or behind enemy lines.

[1] Candidates for serving as part of the Kampfretter units are recruited from the German Air Force Regiment.

In order to increase the number of candidates, recruitment is being opened for every active duty member of the german armed forces.

The completion of basic infantry training and an enlistment of 20 years is required for prospective members.

[2] Since their establishment Kampfretter personnel have been deployed as part of the NATO-led Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan.