SPG Combat Defence System – Close Quarters Combat (CDS-CQC) Training Course

The Combat Defence System – Close Quarters Combat (CDS-CQC) Course consists of the following subjects:

• Mindset & Preparedness
• Foundations of Close Quarters Combat (CQC)
• Close Range striking Techniques
• Clinch Control & Takedowns
• Joint Manipulation & Submissions
• Weapon Defence & Retention
• Tactical Movement in Confined Environments

The Learning Objectives associated with the CDS-CQC Course are as follows:

LO1: Mindset & Preparedness

• Demonstrate mental readiness and composure under high-stress and high-threat situations.
• Recognise and manage physiological stress responses such as adrenaline spikes and tunnel vision.
• Apply principles of situational awareness and threat assessment in dynamic environments.

LO2: Foundations of Close Quarters Combat (CQC)

• Explain the key principles of CQC, including economy of motion, aggression control, and force escalation.
• Identify and operate effectively within the three combat ranges: striking, clinch, and ground.
• Apply appropriate use-of-force responses based on situational, legal, and ethical considerations.

LO3: Close Range Striking Techniques

• Execute effective close-range strikes using elbows, knees, palm strikes, and headbutts in confined spaces.
• Target anatomical weak points with precision to disrupt, disable, or create space for escape.
• Integrate striking techniques into defensive and offensive sequences under pressure.

LO4: Clinch Control & Takedowns

• Establish dominant clinch positions to control, neutralise, or off-balance an opponent.
• Perform basic to intermediate takedowns from the clinch while maintaining positional control.
• Transition fluidly between striking and clinch positions based on threat behaviour.

LO5: Joint Manipulation & Submissions

• Apply joint locks and manipulations to control or incapacitate a resisting opponent.
• Execute submission techniques with an understanding of force limits and injury risk.
• Flow between joint control positions under resistance and time pressure.

LO6: Weapon Defence & Retention

• Defend against edged and blunt weapon attacks at close range using control and redirection principles.
• Execute disarm techniques against firearm threats within CQC range.
• Demonstrate weapon retention strategies under grappling or struggle scenarios.

LO7: Tactical Movement in Confined Environments

• Navigate and fight effectively within confined environments such as hallways, stairwells, and vehicles.
• Use walls, doorways, and environmental features strategically to gain control or escape.
• Maintain tactical positioning and movement to minimize exposure and maximise advantage in restricted spaces.

This course is perfectly suited to members of the Military, Law Enforcement, Prison Service Officer, and Private Security Company (PSC) & Private Military Company (PMC) Operators. Please note that these courses are not available to members of the public, and any courses run must be through a registered company, organisation, Department of Defence, or Law Enforcement Agency.

The CDS-CQC Course is instructed by former UK Military (Royal Marines Commandos) personnel. Instructors are schooled in various forms of Martial Arts and Unarmed Combat.

Special Projects Group also provide the following CDS Courses:

• Combat Defence System – Defensive Measures (Foundations-Level) Course
• Combat Defence System – Defensive Measures (Intermediate-Level) Course
• Combat Defence System – Defensive Measures (Advanced-Level) Course
• Combat Defence System – Physical Restraint Techniques (CDS-PRT) Course

Upon successful completion of this course, Learners will be awarded the Combat Defence System – Close Quarter Combat (CDS-CQC) Course Certificate by Special Projects Group.

At this time, Special Projects Group is only providing private courses for companies, organisations, Military Units and Law Enforcement Agencies. To make an enquiry, please email us at the following email address: [email protected] outlining who you are (company/organisation/other), your requirement, and contact details. Please note that we do not share this information (under Data Protection Act / GDPR) with any third-party sources, unless required under UK Law to do so.