Combat Controllers: The Us Air Forces Elite Special Operators

The United States Air Force (USAF) has a long history of innovation and pushing the boundaries of military operations. One of the most elite and secretive units within the USAF is the Combat Controllers (CCTs). These highly trained special operators are the air force's equivalent of the Navy's SEALs or the Army's Special Forces. In this article, we will delve into the world of Combat Controllers, exploring their history, mission, and the grueling process of becoming one of these elite warriors.

History of Combat Controllers

The Combat Controllers were first established in 1952 as the 1726th Airborne Warning and Control Squadron. The unit's primary mission was to provide air traffic control and command and control capabilities for the USAF's airborne forces. Over the years, the role of the Combat Controllers has expanded to include advanced skills such as language training, unconventional warfare, and special operations.

Mission and Responsibilities

Combat Controllers are highly trained to conduct a wide range of missions, including:

Air traffic control and command and control
Language training and cultural expertise
Unconventional warfare and special operations
Joint terminal attack control and close air support
Personnel recovery and combat search and rescue

Becoming a Combat Controller

Becoming a Combat Controller is an extremely challenging and competitive process. Candidates must meet specific physical and mental requirements, including:

Being a U.S. citizen
Being between the ages of 17 and 39
Having a high school diploma or equivalent
Scoring a minimum of 40 on the Air Force's physical fitness test
Passing a background check and obtaining a top-secret security clearance

The selection process for Combat Controllers involves several phases, including:

Phase 1: Candidate Course: This 7-week course assesses the candidate's physical and mental abilities, as well as their leadership and teamwork skills.
Phase 2: Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) Training: This 3-week course teaches candidates how to survive in hostile environments and evade capture.
Phase 3: Combat Control Team (CCT) Qualification Course: This 14-week course teaches candidates the skills needed to become a Combat Controller, including air traffic control, language training, and unconventional warfare.
Phase 4: Joint Terminal Attack Control (JTAC) Qualification Course: This 3-week course teaches candidates how to control and coordinate close air support and precision-guided munitions.

Training and Skills

Combat Controllers undergo some of the most rigorous training in the world, including:

Parachuting and airborne operations: Combat Controllers are trained in advanced parachuting techniques, including high-altitude, low-opening (HALO) and high-altitude, high-opening (HAHO) jumps.
Combat skills: Combat Controllers are trained in advanced combat skills, including marksmanship, first aid, and hand-to-hand combat.
Language training: Combat Controllers are trained in languages such as Arabic, Pashto, and Spanish.
Unconventional warfare: Combat Controllers are trained in unconventional warfare techniques, including guerrilla warfare and counterinsurgency.

Combat Controllers in Action

Combat Controllers have been involved in numerous military operations around the world, including:

Operation Enduring Freedom: Combat Controllers played a key role in the war in Afghanistan, providing air traffic control and close air support to ground forces.
Operation Iraqi Freedom: Combat Controllers were involved in the invasion of Iraq, providing air traffic control and command and control capabilities.
Operation Inherent Resolve: Combat Controllers are currently involved in the fight against ISIS, providing air traffic control and close air support to ground forces.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Combat Controllers are an elite group of special operators who play a critical role in the United States Air Force. Their advanced skills and training make them highly effective in a wide range of missions, from air traffic control to unconventional warfare. If you are interested in learning more about the Combat Controllers or would like to comment on this article, please feel free to do so below.

Gallery of Combat Controllers:

Combat Controllers Image Gallery

Combat Controllers Operate in High Altitude

Combat Controllers Conduct Parachuting Operations

Combat Controllers Train in Advanced Combat Skills

Combat Controllers Provide Air Traffic Control in Afghanistan

Combat Controllers Conduct Language Training

Combat Controllers Operate in Hostile Environments

Combat Controllers Train in Unconventional Warfare

Combat Controllers Provide Close Air Support

Combat Controllers Operate in Joint Environments

FAQs:

What is the role of Combat Controllers in the United States Air Force?

Combat Controllers are highly trained special operators who conduct a wide range of missions, including air traffic control, language training, and unconventional warfare.

How do I become a Combat Controller?

To become a Combat Controller, candidates must meet specific physical and mental requirements, including being a U.S. citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 39, and scoring a minimum of 40 on the Air Force's physical fitness test.

What kind of training do Combat Controllers receive?

Combat Controllers undergo some of the most rigorous training in the world, including parachuting and airborne operations, combat skills, language training, and unconventional warfare.