17 November 2009
The name of the Counter Terrorist Tactical Assault Group (CTTAG) is to be changed to ‘Commando’ on 5 December to better reflect the nature of the tasks the group’s operators undertake and as part of the development of their own tri-Service or ‘purple’ trade model.
The original CTTAG concept was introduced in mid 2005 to augment the Counter Terrorist (CT) role that is maintained by the 1st New Zealand Special Air Service Group (1 NZSAS GP). The name change to Commando will be made on
5 December.
This date is significant because it is the anniversary of when CTTAG first became operational. At that time they were issued the coveted sand beret but retained their parent corps or service badges. In 2008 their own badge ‘Trinity’ was adopted.
The ‘trinity’ badge, which represents tri-service capability, was designed by Corporal Rob Taylor RNZAF to give the operators a sense of identity within the 1 NZSAS GP and New Zealand Special Operations Forces (NZSOF). The badge contains two Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knives (commando daggers) in the on-guard position and a taiaha in the popotahi position (ready to strike). Taken together the three weapons represent all three Services of the NZDF from which the Commandos draw their applicants and readiness for action that they are expected to maintain.
The Commandos’ regimental belt originated from Cpl Taylor’s design and was first worn by CTTAG operators in 2008. The distinctive colour of the belt is a reflection of the CT or black role. The original CTTAG belt will also be adopted by the Commando Squadron, albeit with a round belt buckle.