The Close Protection Officer (CPO) course is designed to provide a holistic and pragmatic understanding of close protection operations on a global scale. The teaching methodology minimizes traditional classroom lectures in favor of intensive hands-on training and realistic field simulations. The program integrates proven protocols in both “Executive/Business” and “Dignitary Protection” sectors, preparing the operator to manage high-criticality scenarios with professionalism and discretion.
Professional Profile & Objectives
This premier qualification is aimed at security professionals seeking to specialize in high-profile protection. The program certifies that the candidate possesses the tactical knowledge and operational skills necessary to operate in High-Risk/Hostile Environments and contexts requiring the deployment of armed personnel.
In addition to technical mastery of weapon systems, the course develops:
- Analytical Skills: Threat assessment, risk analysis, and route planning.
- Soft Skills: Professional ethics, stress management, and interpersonal attitudes essential for diplomatic and corporate environments.
- Operational Excellence: Active and passive security protocols for safe functioning in any operational theater.
Certifications & Accreditations
Successful completion of the training program ensures the issuance of internationally recognized titles, essential for a career in the private and government security sectors.
Training Methodology
The course utilizes a hybrid and experiential approach, balancing academic theory with intensive field-based practical training across four key environments:
- Classroom Sessions: Doctrinal in-depth study and strategic mission planning.
- Urban Environment: Real-world simulations of reconnaissance, surveillance, and movement management in civilian settings.
- Firing Range: Advanced tactical firearms training.
- Final Field Exercise (FMP): A comprehensive Full Mission Profile conducted in an urban setting to validate operational readiness.
- Location: OSA Training Center, utilizing exclusively certified equipment and facilities.
Mandatory Prerequisites
- Language Proficiency: Fluent communication skills (written and oral) in English.
- Licensing: Possession of a valid Personal Firearms License.
- Vetting: Background checks are mandatory (waived for sworn Law Enforcement, Corrections, Licensed Private Security, or Military personnel).
Required Equipment & Technical Gear
- Authorized Weapon Systems
• Type: Reliable, high-quality centerfire semi-automatic pistols only.
• Frame Size: Full-size or Compact.
• Permitted Calibers: .380 ACP, 9mm, .357 SIG, .40 S&W, or .45 ACP.
• Strict Exclusions: Revolvers, .22 caliber platforms, and “Micro-pistols” (e.g., P365, G42/43, Shield). - Carry Systems & Duty Gear
• Holster: Rigid Outside-the-Waistband (OWB), strong-side mount. Must enclose the trigger guard and allow one-handed operation. No Serpa-style systems.
• Accessories: At least one belt-mounted magazine pouch. - PPE & Apparel
• Executive Attire: Full business suit (jacket, tie, trousers, formal shoes).
• Operational Attire: Tactical trousers, 1.5″ (3.8 cm) rigid belt, casual wear (no jeans), and technical weather gear.
• Protection: Certified ballistic eyewear and dual hearing protection.
• Digital Tools: Laptop and smartphone for reconnaissance and planning.
Ammunition Specifications
- Estimated Round Count: 100 rounds.
- Mandatory Type: Only FRANGIBLE, lead-core (for steel), non-toxic ammunition.
- Prohibitions: Green Tip, Brown Tip, Armor Piercing (AP), or surrogate rounds.
- Absolutely no reloaded or remanufactured ammunition.
- Procurement: Must be purchased exclusively from OS ACADEMY.
Detailed Syllabus
Module 1: International CPO Operations
- Strategic analysis, intelligence techniques, and reconnaissance.
- Site Security and search/sweeping protocols.
- Pedestrian Tactics: Walking drills and escort formations (e.g., Diamond, Box).
- Unarmed Combat and incident management.
Module 2: Conflict Management
- De-escalation and non-violent communication.
- Risk mitigation and post-conflict debriefing.
Module 3: Armed Escort & Firearms Training
- Pistol mechanics and shooting postures.
- Armed pedestrian escort in crowded environments.
- Dynamic and reactive live-fire protocols.
Course Details
- Student Limit: 8 participants
- Price: € 1500.00

