Overview

This course features Coursera Coach! A smarter way to learn with interactive, real-time conversations that help you test your knowledge, challenge assumptions, and deepen your understanding as you progress through the course. Discover the art and science of physical red teaming—an elite cybersecurity discipline. By course end, you’ll know how to conduct recon operations, create operational plans, apply covert tactics, and execute secure exfiltration using the REDTEAMOPSEC© methodology. You’ll gain skills to plan, execute, and assess physical penetration tests that evaluate real-world security. The course follows a structured path, starting with key terminology and the ethical rules of engagement. You'll progress through mission planning, recon tactics, team deployment, and target engagement—emphasizing safety and coordination in every phase. Later modules focus on staging, acclimation, environmental maneuvering, and executing advanced strike and penetration strategies. The course wraps with guidance on reporting, evacuation, and safe exfiltration. Ideal for cybersecurity professionals and red teamers, this intermediate course assumes basic security knowledge, a tactical mindset, and problem-solving ability.

Syllabus

Welcome!

In this module, we will welcome you to the Physical Red Teaming course and provide an overview of what you can expect throughout your learning journey. We'll set the tone for the training, introduce the purpose and scope, and prepare you for the structured, mission-driven content that follows.

Introduction

In this module, we will lay the foundation for your understanding of physical red teaming by exploring core terminology and introducing the REDTEAMOPSEC© methodology. You'll gain clarity on key concepts and how they support ethical and effective red team operations.

Rules of Engagement

In this module, we will define the Rules of Engagement and explain how they guide conduct throughout red team operations. You'll learn how to operate within established ethical frameworks while maintaining mission effectiveness.

Engage In Recon

In this module, we will dive deep into reconnaissance operations—from initial planning to capturing intelligence. You’ll explore methods for both short- and long-range recon, the Recon C³ model, and the strategic use of rally points and team deployment.

Direct Preparation

In this module, we will guide you through the direct preparation phase, where reconnaissance results are transformed into actionable plans. You’ll review intelligence, identify weaknesses, allocate resources, and draft a comprehensive operation blueprint.

Trigger Mobilization

In this module, we will transition from planning to action by preparing the mobilization framework. You’ll learn how to set up staging and deployment sites and use rally points as strategic hubs for operational execution.

Execute Staging

In this module, we will focus on the practical preparations leading up to deployment. You’ll gear up, test your tools, finalize communications, and ensure that all mission elements align with your operational objectives.

Assess & Acclimate

In this module, we will emphasize situational awareness and adaptation. You'll evaluate the surroundings, make necessary tactical adjustments, and ensure the team is mentally and physically acclimated for successful execution.

Maneuver Operations

In this module, we will focus on movement and positioning within the operational area. You’ll learn techniques for observation, signaling, and maneuvering while remaining concealed and responsive to dynamic environmental conditions.

Offensive Strike

In this module, we will explore physical infrastructure used during offensive or security-focused phases. You’ll learn how to place and use sensors, reinforce perimeters, and control physical access to secure operational spaces.

Penetrate & Control

In this module, we will train you in advanced penetration and control tactics. You'll practice persona adoption, establish your position in hostile environments, and learn to move with purpose while minimizing detection risk.

Secure OPORD

In this module, we will focus on execution and ongoing mission management. You’ll deliver operational results, report via SITREPs, and assess mission standing to ensure alignment with objectives and adjust as necessary.

Evacuate, Evade & Cover

In this module, we will prepare you for the exit phase of an operation. You’ll learn how to evacuate safely, evade detection, and provide cover to ensure team safety and mission deniability.

Collect & Exfiltrate

In this module, we will walk you through the final steps of a red team operation—collecting data and exfiltrating the team and assets. You’ll ensure nothing is left behind, and the exit is executed cleanly and securely.