What is the TCCC Protocol in AFU: Tactical Medicine by MARCH
Tactical Medicine TCCC in AFU. Updated: October 2026.
TCCC (Tactical Combat Casualty Care) is an international standard for tactical combat casualty care, which AFU is implemented in the training of all specialties. Assistance is provided in three phases — under fire, in the field, and during evacuation — and according to the MARCH algorithm: from stopping bleeding to protecting against hypothermia. Details below.
Three phases of care according to the TCCC protocol
- Help under fire — first of all, stop massive bleeding with a tourniquet just in the affected area;
- Tactical field assistance — work in the shelter according to the MARCH algorithm;
- Assistance during evacuation — maintenance of the victim's condition before transfer to medical personnel.
MARCH algorithm: procedure
- M — Massive bleeding: massive bleeding, tourniquet or pressure bandage;
- A — Airway: respiratory tract;
- R — Respirations: breathing, chest examination, occlusion stickers;
- C — Circulation: blood circulation, search for other bleedings;
- H — Head/Hypothermia: head and hypothermia — protection of the wounded from hypothermia.
The order is not random: unstoppable massive bleeding kills in minutes, hypothermia later, but seriously worsens the condition.
Who takes an advanced course
Basic skills according to the protocol are mastered by everyone in training. Combat medics take an advanced course: details of the role — what does a combat medic do in AFU.
Mandatory medical minimum for everyone: first aid in AFU.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TCCC a substitute for regular first aid?
No, it is an extension of normal skills for combat conditions: taking into account fire contact and limited time.
Why is hypothermia so important?
Injuries and blood loss quickly lead to hypothermia even in summer, and hypothermia impairs blood circulation and blood coagulation.
Is a medical degree required for TCCC?
The basic elements of the protocol are mastered by every serviceman AFU. Advanced course for combat medics.
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