5 Ways Special Forces Qualify

Introduction to Special Forces Qualification

Special Forces, also known as the Green Berets, are a highly specialized and elite unit of the US Army. They are trained to conduct a wide range of missions, from counterterrorism and direct action to unconventional warfare and foreign internal defense. To become a member of the Special Forces, one must undergo a rigorous selection and training process. In this article, we will explore the 5 ways Special Forces qualify, including the initial selection process, language training, advanced skills training, survival and escape training, and final certification.

Initial Selection Process

The initial selection process for Special Forces is known as Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS). This 24-day course is designed to test a candidate’s physical and mental toughness, as well as their ability to work well in a team. Candidates must meet certain basic requirements, such as being a US citizen, being between the ages of 20 and 35, and having a minimum score of 110 on the general technical section of the Army aptitude test. During SFAS, candidates are evaluated on their leadership skills, physical fitness, and ability to think critically. Those who pass SFAS are then invited to attend the Special Forces Qualification Course.

Language Training

Language training is a critical component of Special Forces qualification. Special Forces operators are expected to be proficient in a foreign language, which is essential for conducting missions in foreign countries. Language training typically lasts for 12-18 months and involves immersion training, where students are surrounded by the language and culture they are studying. Students learn to read, write, and speak the language, as well as understand the customs and traditions of the country where the language is spoken. Some of the languages that Special Forces operators may learn include: * Arabic * Spanish * French * German * Italian * Portuguese * Russian * Chinese

Advanced Skills Training

Advanced skills training is designed to teach Special Forces operators the skills they need to conduct a wide range of missions. This training includes: * Combat skills: Students learn advanced combat techniques, including marksmanship, close quarters combat, and combat tactics. * Demolitions: Students learn how to use explosives and demolitions to conduct missions such as destroying enemy equipment and infrastructure. * Communications: Students learn how to use advanced communications equipment, including satellite phones and radios. * Medical skills: Students learn advanced medical skills, including how to treat wounds and perform emergency surgery.

Survival and Escape Training

Survival and escape training is designed to teach Special Forces operators how to survive in hostile environments and escape from enemy capture. This training includes: * Survival skills: Students learn how to find food and water, build shelters, and start fires in the wilderness. * Escape and evasion: Students learn how to escape from enemy capture and evade enemy forces. * Resistance to interrogation: Students learn how to resist interrogation and avoid providing information to the enemy.

Final Certification

The final step in the Special Forces qualification process is certification. To become certified, students must complete all of the training courses and pass a final exam. Certification is typically awarded at a ceremony, where students are presented with their Green Beret and officially become members of the Special Forces.

Phase	Duration	Description
SFAS	24 days	Initial selection process
Language Training	12-18 months	Foreign language training
Advanced Skills Training	12-18 months	Advanced skills training
Survival and Escape Training	2-3 weeks	Survival and escape training
Final Certification	1 day	Certification ceremony

💡 Note: The duration of each phase may vary depending on the individual’s progress and the specific requirements of the course.

In summary, becoming a member of the Special Forces requires a significant amount of time, effort, and dedication. The 5 ways Special Forces qualify, including the initial selection process, language training, advanced skills training, survival and escape training, and final certification, are all critical components of the qualification process. By completing these phases, individuals can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct a wide range of missions and become a valuable member of the Special Forces team.