Traditionally utilized for highly specialized action, such as barricaded suspects and hostage situations, the teams are increasingly engaged in traditional police work, especially work related to anti-drug efforts. The research shows that between 1990 and 1995 SWAT units were employed in their traditional roles for only a small number of occasions. He added that such units are now being deployed as full-time roaming patrols. Kraska's survey shows that the SWAT teams receive training by active and retired military experts in special operations. Heckler and Koch, makers of the MP5 submachine gun used by the Navy Seals, also provide training to the SWAT teams.
Some units also have helicopters and armored personnel carriers at their disposal.
Fresno Police Chief Ed Winchester said a highly armed, more violent class of criminals requires the use of SWAT teams. Winchester said that because of the extreme response tactics used by SWAT teams, they actually fire fewer shots. They don't need to shoot. It's fun to fire these weapons. It's exciting to train.