SPAG Manned with selected members of staff from the submarine escape training tank (SETT). These personnel are trained water descent parachutists on call - at 6 hours notice - 365 days a year for any submarine or major accident at sea. They are able to provide various types of rescue expertise and first aid. Their equipment consists of various types of inflatable boats, liferafts, hot and cold rations, first aid equipment, surface oxygen therapy equipment, submarine compatible underwater communications, aircraft communications, global positioning system equipment, ship to shore communications, fuel and fresh water.

Utilising an 'on call' RAF C130 Hercules based at RAF Lyneham, they can be in the air and on the scene of any accident, possibly before other shipping. This method of deployment allows the SPAG to act as a self contained unit until other major rescue / recovery units arrive.