Over its ten-year existence, Koevoet was widely considered the most successful "insurgent-killing" unit in the conflict, though it paid a significant price in blood. Recorded Total (1979–1989) 1,615 engagements Insurgents Killed or Captured Koevoet Personnel Killed (KIA) Koevoet Personnel Wounded Controversy and Disbandment Remembering "Koevoet" Peter Vale - Digital Georgetown

: Upon picking up tracks, the unit engaged in high-speed pursuits. Once contact was made, they utilized overwhelming firepower, including white phosphorus grenades and vehicle-mounted machine guns.

: The force consisted of roughly 1,000 personnel, including approximately 900 local Ovambo trackers and about 300 white officers and NCOs.

Initially modeled after elite units like the of Rhodesia and the Portuguese Flechas , Koevoet operated as a paramilitary security police force rather than a standard military unit.

: The unit established its headquarters in Oshakati , with primary operational bases in Kaokoland, Kavango, and Ovamboland. Tactical Innovation: The "Crowbar" Method

Koevoet's name reflected its intent to "pry" insurgents out of the local population. The unit utilized specialized equipment and aggressive tracking methods that set it apart from conventional South African Defence Force (SADF) units:

: Unlike the Army, Koevoet maintained a close and effective relationship with the Air Force, frequently scrambling helicopters for casualty evacuation or additional vision during contacts. Combat Record and Casualties