Air Force Special Forces Training

Introduction to Air Force Special Forces Training

The Air Force Special Forces, also known as Air Force Special Operations, are a group of highly trained and skilled airmen who undertake critical missions that require a high level of proficiency and expertise. These missions can range from conducting combat operations to providing humanitarian assistance. To become a member of the Air Force Special Forces, one must undergo a rigorous and challenging training program that pushes individuals to their limits. In this article, we will delve into the world of Air Force Special Forces training and explore the various stages and aspects of this intense program.

Basic Requirements and Eligibility

Before we dive into the training process, it’s essential to understand the basic requirements and eligibility criteria for joining the Air Force Special Forces. To be considered, individuals must meet specific qualifications, including: * Being a U.S. citizen * Holding a high school diploma or equivalent * Scoring well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test * Passing a physical fitness test * Meeting specific vision and hearing requirements * Obtaining a security clearance * Being between the ages of 17 and 39 * Having a willingness to serve in a hazardous duty environment

👊 Note: Meeting these requirements does not guarantee selection into the Air Force Special Forces training program. The selection process is highly competitive, and only a small number of candidates are chosen each year.

Stage 1: Basic Military Training (BMT)

The first stage of Air Force Special Forces training is Basic Military Training (BMT), which is a 7-week program designed to transform civilians into airmen. During BMT, trainees learn the fundamentals of military life, including: * Military protocol and procedures * Physical fitness and conditioning * First aid and emergency response * Teamwork and leadership skills * Core values and the Air Force code of conduct

Stage 2: Special Operations Prep Course

After completing BMT, candidates who are selected for the Air Force Special Forces training program attend the Special Operations Prep Course. This 9-week course is designed to prepare trainees for the physical and mental demands of special operations training. The course includes: * Advanced physical fitness training * Swim training and water survival * Rappelling and rope climbing * Land navigation and orienteering * Survival, evasion, resistance, and escape (SERE) training

Stage 3: Combat Control Team (CCT) Training

The next stage of training is the Combat Control Team (CCT) training program, which is 15 weeks long. During this phase, trainees learn advanced skills, including: * Advanced first aid and medical training * Communications and radio operations * Explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) training * Advanced land navigation and route planning * Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations

Stage 4: Pararescue Recovery Specialist Training

For those who are selected to become Pararescue Recovery Specialists, the next stage of training is the Pararescue Recovery Specialist Course. This 20-week course includes: * Advanced medical training, including emergency medical technician (EMT) certification * Survival, evasion, resistance, and escape (SERE) training * Advanced parachute training, including high-altitude and halo jumps * Advanced rope and climbing techniques * Combat tactics and operations

Stage 5: Advanced Training and Qualification

The final stage of Air Force Special Forces training is advanced training and qualification. During this phase, trainees attend specialized courses to learn advanced skills, such as: * Advanced sniper training * Close quarters combat (CQC) training * Advanced demolitions and explosives training * Advanced language training * Cultural and regional studies

Maintaining Readiness and Proficiency

After completing the training program, Air Force Special Forces operators must maintain their readiness and proficiency through regular training and exercise. This includes: * Regular physical fitness training and conditioning * Advanced skills training and recertification * Mission rehearsal and simulation training * Language and cultural training * Equipment and technology updates

Stage	Duration	Training Focus
Basic Military Training (BMT)	7 weeks	Military fundamentals and basic skills
Special Operations Prep Course	9 weeks	Physical and mental preparation for special operations
Combat Control Team (CCT) Training	15 weeks	Advanced skills training, including communications and EOD
Pararescue Recovery Specialist Training	20 weeks	Advanced medical and parachute training
Advanced Training and Qualification	Variable	Specialized skills training and qualification

In summary, the Air Force Special Forces training program is a challenging and intense process that pushes individuals to their limits. From Basic Military Training to advanced skills training, each stage is designed to prepare operators for the physical and mental demands of special operations. By maintaining their readiness and proficiency, Air Force Special Forces operators are able to conduct critical missions and protect national interests.