Intro
Unlock the elite world of Special Forces Air Force. Discover the rigorous requirements and training needed to join this esteemed unit. Learn about the physical and mental demands, education prerequisites, and citizenship necessities. Explore the comprehensive training process, from Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training to Advanced Skills Training.
The Special Forces of the Air Force, also known as Air Force Special Operators, are an elite group of warriors who undertake critical missions to protect the country's interests. To become a part of this prestigious team, one must meet rigorous requirements and undergo intense training. In this article, we will delve into the Special Forces Air Force requirements and training procedures.
Requirements for Air Force Special Forces
To be eligible for the Air Force Special Forces, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Age: 17-39 years old (with some exceptions for older candidates)
- Citizenship: U.S. citizen
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Physical Fitness: Meet the Air Force's physical fitness standards
- Background: Pass a background check and obtain a security clearance
- Language: Be proficient in a foreign language (not required but highly desirable)
- ASVAB Scores: Meet the minimum ASVAB scores for the Special Forces career field
In addition to these requirements, candidates must also complete a series of tests and evaluations, including:
- Physical Ability and Stamina Test (PAST): A rigorous physical fitness test that assesses a candidate's endurance, strength, and agility
- Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS): A 10-day evaluation that assesses a candidate's mental and physical toughness, as well as their ability to work in a team environment
Air Force Special Forces Training
Once a candidate has met the requirements and passed the initial evaluations, they will begin their Special Forces training. This training is divided into several phases:
- Phase 1: Basic Military Training (BMT): 7 weeks of basic training that teaches candidates the fundamentals of the Air Force and prepares them for their specialized training
- Phase 2: Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) Training: 3 weeks of training that teaches candidates how to survive in hostile environments and resist interrogation
- Phase 3: Special Forces Training: 12-18 months of training that focuses on specialized skills such as language training, parachute training, and combat tactics
- Phase 4: Advanced Individual Training (AIT): 3-6 months of training that focuses on advanced skills such as medical training, communications training, and leadership development
During their training, candidates will be pushed to their limits, both physically and mentally. They will be taught advanced skills and techniques, and will be expected to demonstrate their proficiency in these areas.
Air Force Special Forces Careers
The Air Force Special Forces offer a variety of careers, each with its own unique set of skills and responsibilities. Some of the most common careers include:
- Combat Controller: A Combat Controller is a Special Forces Operator who specializes in air traffic control and combat tactics
- Pararescueman: A Pararescueman is a Special Forces Operator who specializes in rescue and recovery operations
- Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) Specialist: A SERE Specialist is a Special Forces Operator who specializes in survival, evasion, resistance, and escape techniques
- Special Forces Weather Technician: A Special Forces Weather Technician is a Special Forces Operator who specializes in weather forecasting and analysis
Each of these careers requires a unique set of skills and training, but all share the same goal: to protect the country's interests and defend its citizens.
Air Force Special Forces Salary and Benefits
Air Force Special Forces Operators are paid according to the Air Force's pay scale, which is based on rank and time in service. In addition to their base pay, Special Forces Operators also receive a variety of benefits, including:
- Special Duty Pay: A monthly stipend that is paid to Special Forces Operators for their specialized skills and duties
- Hazardous Duty Pay: A monthly stipend that is paid to Special Forces Operators for their hazardous duties
- Jump Pay: A monthly stipend that is paid to Special Forces Operators who are qualified parachutists
- Subsistence Allowance: A monthly stipend that is paid to Special Forces Operators to help offset the cost of food and other living expenses
Air Force Special Forces Requirements and Training in Conclusion
Becoming a member of the Air Force Special Forces is a challenging and rewarding experience. Candidates must meet rigorous requirements and undergo intense training to join this elite group of warriors. Once they have completed their training, they will be part of a team that is dedicated to protecting the country's interests and defending its citizens.
If you are interested in joining the Air Force Special Forces, we encourage you to research the requirements and training procedures thoroughly. It's a challenging journey, but for those who are willing to put in the work, it can be a rewarding and fulfilling career.
Air Force Special Forces Image Gallery
What are the requirements for joining the Air Force Special Forces?
+The requirements for joining the Air Force Special Forces include meeting the Air Force's physical fitness standards, passing a background check and obtaining a security clearance, and completing a series of tests and evaluations, including the Physical Ability and Stamina Test (PAST) and the Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS).
How long does Air Force Special Forces training last?
+Air Force Special Forces training typically lasts 12-18 months, although some training programs may be longer or shorter depending on the specific career field.
What are the benefits of joining the Air Force Special Forces?
+The benefits of joining the Air Force Special Forces include a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and the opportunity to serve in a prestigious and elite unit.