Rapid Intervention

T A C R 2

TACR2 historical information

The Range Rover TACR2 (Tactical Airfield Crash Rescue 2) was a specialized fire engine developed for the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Royal Navy in the 1970s. Its primary purpose was to provide rapid-response fire and rescue services on airfields, particularly for incidents involving aircraft. Based on the Range Rover Classic, the TACR2 was designed for speed and mobility, allowing it to quickly reach the scene of an accident or fire on airfields, where larger, slower fire trucks might struggle to respond in time.

The TACR2 was equipped with various firefighting tools, including water tanks, foam-making equipment, and hoses, tailored to handle aircraft fuel fires. Its compact size, combined with its off-road capabilities, made it ideal for the rough and often unpredictable terrain of military airfields. Unlike many larger fire engines, the TACR2 could easily navigate across grass, sand, or uneven surfaces, ensuring that it could get close to the site of an emergency quickly, even if the area was difficult to access.

The Range Rover TACR2 saw widespread use in the RAF during the 1970s and 1980s, particularly at smaller airbases where its speed and versatility were highly valued. It was a vital part of the airfield’s crash rescue teams, complementing larger fire trucks by providing initial fire suppression and rescue capabilities until heavier equipment could arrive. Its ability to carry both crew and firefighting equipment allowed it to perform a dual role, offering both fire suppression and rescue support during emergencies. The vehicle’s design was well-regarded for its robustness and adaptability, proving itself a reliable asset in many emergency situations across RAF and Navy airfields.

Though eventually phased out in favor of more modern firefighting vehicles, the TACR2 left a lasting impression on military fire and rescue teams. Its service during this period highlights the importance of having versatile, mobile fire suppression capabilities, especially in high-risk environments like airfields where seconds could make the difference between life and death.