Air Force Special Forces Requirements

Introduction to Air Force Special Forces

The Air Force Special Forces, also known as Air Force Special Operations, are elite units that conduct a variety of missions, including counterterrorism, direct action, special reconnaissance, and unconventional warfare. These units are part of the United States Air Force and are trained to operate in a variety of environments, from urban to wilderness areas. To become a member of the Air Force Special Forces, one must meet certain requirements and undergo rigorous training.

Basic Requirements

To be eligible for Air Force Special Forces, candidates must meet the following basic requirements: * Be a U.S. citizen * Be between the ages of 17 and 39 * Have a high school diploma or equivalent * Score well on the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT) * Pass a physical fitness test * Meet certain medical standards * Have a secret security clearance

Special Forces Careers

There are several careers within the Air Force Special Forces, including: * Combat Controller Team (CCT): These airmen are trained to conduct special operations and combat control missions. * Pararescue Recovery Specialist: These airmen are trained to recover and rescue personnel from hostile or hard-to-reach areas. * Special Operations Weather Team (SOWT): These airmen are trained to provide weather support for special operations missions. * Tactical Air Control Party (TACP): These airmen are trained to conduct air support operations and close air support missions.

Training and Selection

The training and selection process for Air Force Special Forces is rigorous and highly competitive. Candidates must complete the following: * Basic Military Training (BMT): This is the initial training that all airmen undergo. * Special Operations Initial Skills Training: This training teaches candidates the basic skills needed for special operations. * Advanced Skills Training: This training provides candidates with specialized skills, such as parachuting and combat diving. * Selection Course: This is a highly competitive course that tests candidates’ physical and mental abilities. * Advanced Training: Candidates who pass the selection course undergo advanced training in their specific career field.

💪 Note: The training and selection process for Air Force Special Forces is extremely challenging, both physically and mentally. Candidates must be in top physical condition and have a strong mental toughness to succeed.

Physical Fitness Requirements

To be eligible for Air Force Special Forces, candidates must meet certain physical fitness requirements, including: * Push-ups: 42 or more in one minute * Sit-ups: 50 or more in one minute * 1.5-mile run: 9:30 minutes or less * Swimming: 500 meters or more in 12 minutes or less * Ruck march: 15 miles or more in 3 hours or less

Medical Requirements

Candidates must also meet certain medical requirements, including: * Perfect vision: ²⁰⁄₂₀ in each eye * Normal color vision * No history of certain medical conditions, such as asthma or diabetes

Security Clearance

Candidates must also have a secret security clearance to be eligible for Air Force Special Forces. This requires a background check and a review of the candidate’s financial and personal history.

Education and Career Advancement

To advance in their careers, Air Force Special Forces airmen must complete certain education and training requirements, including: * Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) degree * Special operations-specific training * Leadership and management courses

Career Field	Education Requirements	Training Requirements
CCT	CCAF degree in aviation or related field	Special operations-specific training, including parachuting and combat diving
Pararescue Recovery Specialist	CCAF degree in emergency medical services or related field	Special operations-specific training, including parachuting and combat diving
SOWT	CCAF degree in meteorology or related field	Special operations-specific training, including weather forecasting and atmospheric science
TACP	CCAF degree in aviation or related field	Special operations-specific training, including air support operations and close air support

In summary, becoming a member of the Air Force Special Forces requires meeting certain basic requirements, completing rigorous training and selection, and advancing in one’s career through education and training. It is a challenging and rewarding career path that requires a strong physical and mental toughness, as well as a commitment to serving one’s country.