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Just curious to know if any of you would be interested in info on some of the modern day SOF and reconnaissance units? Say info on the 75th Ranger Regiment's Regimental Recon Company, US Army Pathfinder and Long Range Surveillance Units, MARSOC, or foreign units like the Australian SASR, and Canada's JTF-2?

That would be cool. Where did you get your references?

Well I've been writing for various military and law enforcement magazines and websites for about 10 years now. On the law enforcement side of the house I'm currently a member of Sheriff's Office ERT, prior to that I was on the state DOC's Strike Force team. I also worked as the training coordinator, and trainer, for a company that provided riot control, and SWAT training to various law enforcement and military units.

If you click on the links in my sig, you can see some of the stuff I've written over the years.

nice

Okay here's a list of the units I'll cover, and while not all of them are SOF, they either operate with them, or conduct recon missions.

USA

Army

Pathfinders
Long Range Surveillance Units (LRSD/LRSC)
75th Ranger Regiment
75th Ranger Regiment Regimental Recon Company (RRC)
US Army Special Forces
1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta "Delta Force"/Combat Applications Group/Combined Arms Group
US Army Intelligence Support Activity (ISA) (or whatever they're calling themselves these days).

Air Force

Special Tactics Squadrons - To include Combat Control (CCT)/Special Tactics Officers (STO), Pararescue (PJ)/Combat Rescue Officers (CRO), and Special Operations Weather Techs (SOWT), and SOF TACP (TACCS/JTAC & ALO)
Combat Aviation Advisers

Navy

USN SEALs & SDV Teams
Special Boat Teams (SBT)
Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DevGru)
USN EOD
Riverine Squadrons

USMC

MARSOC - Marine Special Operations Battalions (MSOB) & Marine Special Operations Support Group
Force Recon
Radio Recon Platoons
Recon Battalions
ANGLICO
Scout Sniper Platoons

Paramilitary & Law Enforcement

USCG International Training Team
USCG Maritime Security Response Team (MSRT)

FBI Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) - The HRT has operated overseas for years, doing everything from "renditions"to escorting FBI and DOJ officials. They provide security details to FBI personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan, and operated with US Military SOF doing site surveys, and interrogations during combat ops.

US Border Patrol BORTAC - BORTAC has been all over Central ad South America conducting raids, training local police and border guards, extraditions, etc. The last couple of years they've been in Iraq training local boarder guards and conducting border security missions.

DEA Foreign Advisory and Support Teams (FAST) - These are the guys running around Afghanistan destroying poppy fields and advising the new Afghan police counter drug units.

USMS SOG - The SOG has been operating in Iraq for a couple of years doing VIP escorts, prisoner security & transport, providing security during the trails of former Bathists (they did it during Saddam's trial), and training Iraq court security and Marshals.

CIA Special Activities Division (SAD) - This is the CIA's paramilitary special ops branch. They were the first guys on the ground after 9/11.

Dept. of State, Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), Mobile Security Deployment (MSD) Team - Tactical teams assigned to provide security to the Secretary of State, and other high ranking dignitaries.

After this I do some quick write-ups, I'll post stuff on Canada, the UK, and Australia.

As for the other countries I listed it should go like this:

Canada

JTF-2
Canadian Special Operations Regiment

UK

16 AB Pathfinder Platoon

148 Commando Forward Observation Battery
Honourable Artillery Company (HAC)
4/73 Special Observation Post Battery

3 Commando Brigade, Brigade Patrol Troop

SAS (21, 22, and 23)
SBS
SRR
Special Forces Support Group (SFSG - The new unit the Brits stood up to be like the Rangers)

The Increment

Australia

Special Air Service Regiment (SASR)
TAG East
1st Commando Regiment
2 Commando Regiment
TAG West

Clearance Dive Team (CDT)

4 Sqaudron RAAF Special Tactics Combat Controllers

I personally am waiting on what you write about the various British units. As I have family members who were at one time or another members of two of those units you have named. Those family members who are still among the living almost never talk about what they did.

Nice work man!

Here's a quick overview of how US SOF are organized.

US Special Operations Command (SOCOM) - Basically the big HQ that controls all US military SOF units.

Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) - AFSOC controls the USAF special ops units. Such as their Special Operations Wings (SOW), Special Operations Groups (SOG), the 720th Special Tactics Group (720th STG), and support units.

The SOW and SOGs fly specialized aircraft to support SOF missions. The 720th is the ground combat component. It's composed of CCT, STO, PJ, CRO, and SOWT. PJ/CRO and CCT/STO are grouped into Special Tactics Squadrons (STS), and they support "white" SOF missions. The 24th STS works for JSOC, and supports "black" SOF missions (CT ops it work with Delta & DEVGRU).

The SOWT are grouped together in the 10th Combat Weather Squadron (10th CWS), they support US Army Special Operations Command units, and are co-located with the units they support (SF, Rangers, 160th SOAR). They also have a small team assigned directly to the 24th STS.

US Army Special Operations Command (USASOC). Is the Army unit that controls SOF Forces such as US Army Special Forces, "Green Berets", the 75th Ranger Regiment, the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR), Army psychological operations, civil affairs, and SOF support units.

Army Special Forces fall under US Army Special Forces Command, which is part of USASOC. SF primary focus is conducting unconventional warfare, and counter insurgency ops. But they can, and o perform direct action missions (small scale raids/strikes, prisoner snatches, etc), and recon missions.

The 75th Ranger Regiment is an elite unit of light infantry tasked with raids and supporting operations by either SF or Delta. The Rangers also have a Regimental Recon Company that performs recon missions for the Regiment, or supports other units.

The 160th SOAR is the Army's special ops helo unit. They fly modified version of standard Army helo's. They were the guys who's helicopters got shot down in Blackhawk Down.

Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC). MARSOC is the Marine Corps new SOF command. It controls the two new Marine Special Operations Battalions (still being formed), the Marine Special Operations Advisory Group, the Marine Special Operations Support Group, and their support units.

To get the manning slots it needed to form MARSOC the Corps "disestablished" both 1st and 2nd Force Recon Companies, along with the 4th MEB (Anti-Terrorism).

The two MSOB are made up of Marine Special Operations Companies (four on the west coast, five on the East). They perform direct action or special recon missions.

The MSOAG trains foreign military personnel and acts as advisers to them.

The MSOSG provides EOD, K-9, forward observer (From ANGLICO), signals intel (Radio Recon Teams), human intel (HUMINT) teams, counter intel (CI), and interrogation teams.

More later.

Nothing has been posted here since January. I have some Modern SOF stuff for RECON that I can put up if anyone is interested. It involves a couple of new stats and skills and new MOS's. It is pretty in-depth though. Say so if you want it.

Post it in this forum (I'd suggest a different topic) or write a Rifter submission (I recomend the later 'cause you may get a little pocket change and your name on a book for it).

Jefffar wrote:Post it in this forum (I'd suggest a different topic) or write a Rifter submission (I recomend the later 'cause you may get a little pocket change and your name on a book for it).

Good idea. Thanks!

Beatmeclever wrote:Nothing has been posted here since January.

Sorry about that, I got tied up with other issues, and never got back to posting info. I will eventually add updates, but I can't promise you when that will be though.

Beatmeclever wrote: I have some Modern SOF stuff for RECON that I can put up if anyone is interested. It involves a couple of new stats and skills and new MOS's. It is pretty in-depth though. Say so if you want it.

Even though you may submit the stuff for a Rifter article, any chance you could post a preview or summery here?

Sure, give me a day or two. I'll get it formatted for the Rifter and then I'll put up the summary. The stuff I have is for both systems (RECON abd Megaversal).

Post it!! Me wanna see!

That looks cool! I have a handbook of the special forces of the world. Looks pretty complete so far.

USAF 10TH COMBAT WEATHER SQUADRON

MISSION STATEMENT

A. The 10th Combat Weather Squadron (10 CWS) organizes, trains, and equips combat weather and supporting personnel for worldwide employment with the forces of the United States Army Special Operations Command (USASOC), to provide meteorological and oceanographic information in and for the special operations theater of operations. Functions include tactical infiltration, data collection, analysis and forecasting, mission tailoring of environmental information, and operating in concert with host nation weather personnel.

B. With the global Special Operations mission, personnel are capable of observing and forecasting using tactical meteorological (TACMET) equipment and a variety of communication systems ranging from high frequency (HF) radios to satellite communications (SATCOM).

C. The squadron is comprised of five detachments and one Operating Location (OL) that are co-located with their customer(s). A Statement of Requirements (SOR) defines what support is required by USASOC.

D. Customers supported include Special Forces Groups (SFG), Ranger Regiments (RGR), Special Operations Aviation Regiments (SOAR), Psychological Operations Groups (POG), Special Warfare Training Groups (SWTG), Civil Affairs (CA) units, and Special Operations Support Battalions. .

SPECIFIC EMPLOYMENT

A. Detachment personnel deploy with their customer(s) to virtually all countries in the world. They are continuously in the highest state of readiness and often deploy at a moments notice, well ahead of the advance command and control elements. Consequently, individuals must be highly trained and well equipped to meet the challenges demanded by ambitious, but realistic, joint exercise schedules as well as wartime deployments, real-world contingencies, Low Intensity Conflicts (LIC) and Military Operations Other Than War (MOOTW).

B. The 10th CWS develops and implements doctrine, policies, and standards. Monitoring each detachment's performance, addressing current and future weather support requirements, acquiring and providing training that ensures interoperability of equipment and integration of forces, and acting as the focal point of budget and personnel issues also ensures the squadron maintains a high state of readiness in each of its detachments.

C. In-garrison weather support consists of weather forecasts for local training, upcoming deployments, and resource protection. Each detachment targets it's in-garrison training to the supporting customer's Area Of Responsibility (AOR) to maintain cultural awareness, AOR weather familiarity, and determine the host nation's meteorological capabilities.

D. Support for all deployments starts with acquiring climatological products, solar/lunar data, and forecasts required for pre-deployment, mission planning, and execution documents. Unit personnel provide tailored briefings for deployments. Briefings incorporate operational elements of all meteorological and oceanographic products and forecasts. Operational elements at forward locations are provided weather information for the mission's duration, to include, forecasts for the target, infiltration and exfiltration, hide site areas. Participation in post-debriefs is mandatory to acquire feedback and identify any weather sensitive areas in the area of operation for future study.

E. Additional requirements exist when supporting deployed aviation units which include weather observations and Meteorological Watch (METWATCH) support for the forward deployed location and Forward Arming And Refueling Points. (FAARPs).

F. The detachments maintain the capability to function independently as a tactical forecast unit for the supported unit for any area of operations and provide the following:

(1) 24-hour forecasting support to all unit operations and missions.
(2) Weather data collection over the area of operations.
(3) Customized weather support products generated at higherlevels.

G. Collecting weather data from forward areas is vital to forecast accuracy and mission success. The deployed unit commander determines the specific method of data collection used according to the type of operations being conducted. Detachments use one of several methods to collect data.

(1) Personnel are capable of special reconnaissance by accompany selected units as required. This capability provides unit commanders with current, detailed weather data from an "eyes on target" perspective and/or at a location enroute to an objective that has been identified as weather sensitive.
(2) Organizing, establishing, and maintaining weather data reporting networks provides forecasters with weather data from "data denied" areas. Unit personnel are strategically deployed in the theater of operations as a network to provide detailed and accurate weather observations, limited forecasts, and upper air soundings. The importance of this capability is readily apparent; most third world nations have little or no indigenous weather services, and hostile countries cease transmission of weather data when conflicts arise.
(3) Detachment personnel teach Army SOF units how to take limited weather observations. A simple format is used to encode the limited weather observations. Army SOF units pass the encoded observations to forecasters located at Forward Operating Bases (FOB). Army personnel can then be used to enhance weather data reporting networks area covered or they can be used alone.
(4) Remote environmental sensing is in its infancy. Small weather sensor packages are being developed that have a stand alone capability. When strategically placed in forward areas, and these sensors will send back limited weather observations to forecasters at programmed times.

H. Upper air soundings, including Mean Effective Wind (MEW) and Pilot Balloon (PIBAL) observations, support personnel and equipment parachute operations. Specific detachments have the capability to launch instrument packages (SONDEs) attached to a balloon to sample the atmosphere up to and above 40,000 ft. SONDEs relay crucial atmospheric data that is incorporated into mission forecasts. The data also relayed back to national weather assets for use in other products.

I. Electro-Optics Tactical Decision Aid (EOTDA) support is a mission specific service provided to the customer. The EOTDA program gives the customer a forecast of how to optimize the use of weapons platforms and tactical equipment for a specific mission based on environmental conditions and intelligence inputs. EOTDA forecasts are briefed in conjunction with other weather products required for mission planning and execution. .

DEPLOYMENT CONSIDERATIONS

a. Squadron personnel can be deployed individually during war-time to fill any of the detachment positions as required. The squadron is best utilized as a command and control unit that coordinates the theater weather support transition between first-in SOF units and the arrival of conventional/follow-on forces.
b. Each customer supported is unique and the team size is tailored to the specific requirements of the mission. When detachment personnel deploy as small teams, they are sometimes called Special Operations Weather Teams (SOWTs) or Combat Weather Teams (CWTs).
c. In order to provide the highest level of support, units require reliable dial-up access capabilities to transmit and receive weather data and products from field units as well as national weather assets.
d. Detachment personnel are equipped to operate at FOBs for thirty days without resupply. Personnel deploying forward of the FOB maintain the same resupply requirements as the unit they are attached to.

SPECIFIC MISSION TASKS

A. Provide climatological/oceanographic data, sun/lunar data, and weather forecasts/observations to support pre-deployment, deployment, mission planning, execution, and redeployment.
B. Function independently as a tactical forecast unit for the supported unit.
C. Provide Electro-Optical support.
D. Provide Special Reconnaissance (SR) as required by supported unit.
E. Train Army SOF units to take and communicate limited weather observations.
F. Collect upper air data.
G. Organize, establish, and maintain weather data reporting networks.
H. Determine host nation meteorological capabilities.
I. Perform infiltration/exfiltration methods to include static line and military free-fall parachute, small boat or amphibious means, overland - mounted or dismounted, airland via fixed- or rotary-wing aircraft, airmobile procedures to include rappel, fast-rope, rope ladder and STABO.

USAF SOF TACP
Special Operations Forces
Tactical Air Control Parties

US Air Force Special Operations Forces TACPs are Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTAC) who work aligned with US Army Special Operations Forces (SOF). They provide close air support/terminal guidance control for exercise and contingency operations, on a permanent and continuous basis, with a mission to increase the combat capability of the US Forces. They also provide additional expertise in Artillery, Naval Gunfire, and Attack Helicopters.

Their five fold mission is:

Support of US Army Special Operations Command, US Army Special Forces Command, John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center, 1st, 3d, 5th, 7th and 10th Special Forces Groups, US Army Rangers, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, Joint Special Operations Task Forces, and other special operations units.
Advise the ground commander on the capabilities and use of tactical airpower.
Assist the ground commander on the planning and employment of tactical air support.
Provide a link with the Theater Air Control System.
Conduct Emergency Close Air Support/Terminal Guidance Operations training.

TACPs trace their roots back beyond the original TACPs supporting both the US Army Special Forces Command (USASFC) and Rangers to World War II. It wasn't until after Desert Storm that Army Special Operations Command (USASOC) formalized an agreement with Air Combat Command to provide TACPs at USASOC, USASFC, JFKSWCS, every Special Forces Group and Special Operations Aviation Regiment, in addition to the TACPs at Ranger Regiment and the 3 Ranger Battalions.

During the fall of 1994 the initial cadre of 32 hand-picked personnel reported to USASOC. With an initial charter to provide SF personnel with Close Air Support (CAS) training, their operational tempo quickly increased. Shortly after standing up, the newly-christened SOF TACPs were deploying with Special Forces from SF Operational Battalion to Operational Detachment level. It wasn't until 1998 that ACC recognized the SOF TACP selection process as a way to select only best personnel to support Army SOF. Only experienced ETACs are authorized to attend. Selection is done over 6 days and is set-up to test the individual's maturity and mental and physical capabilities. TACP skills and capabilities mirror their Army counterparts. Being Airborne qualified is mandatory; however, current members are qualified in many areas including HALO, HALO jumpmaster, Static-line jumpmaster, Air Assault, Pathfinder, Scuba and Ranger.

Past operations supported:

Urgent Fury

• Operation Just Cause
• Desert Shield/Storm
• Iris Gold
• Joint Endeavor
• Joint Guard
• Operation Gothic Serpent
• Desert Fox/Thunder
• Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) - Ongoing
• Operation Anaconda
• Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) - Ongoing

USAF
COMBAT CONTROL
“First There"

Mission

Air Force Special Operations Command's combat controllers are Battlefield Airmen assigned to special tactics squadrons. They are trained special operations forces and certified Federal Aviation Administration air traffic controllers.

Their mission is to deploy undetected into combat and hostile environments to establish assault zones or airfields, while simultaneously conducting air traffic control, fire support, command and control, direct action, counter-terrorism, foreign internal defense, humanitarian assistance and special reconnaissance in the joint arena.

Combat Control

Assigned to Air Force Special Operations Command, combat controllers join forces with trained specialists to form highly trained Special Tactics teams. Their motto, "First There," reaffirms the combat controller’s commitment to undertaking the most dangerous missions behind enemy lines by leading the way for other forces to follow.

Training

Combat controllers are among the most highly trained personnel in the U. S. Air Force. They complete the same technical training as all air traffic controllers, and maintain air traffic control qualification skills throughout their careers.

Many qualify and maintain currency in joint terminal attack control procedures, in addition to other special operations skills. Their 35-week training and unique mission skills earn them the right to wear the scarlet beret.

• Combat Control Orientation Course, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas
This two-week orientation course focuses on sports physiology, nutrition, basic exercises, combat control history and fundamentals.

• Combat Control Operator Course, Keesler AFB, Miss.
This 15 and a half-week course teaches aircraft recognition and performance, air navigation aids, weather, airport traffic control, flight assistance service, communication procedures, conventional approach control, radar procedures and air traffic rules. This is the same course that all Air Force air traffic controllers attend and is the core skill of a combat controller's job.

• U.S. Army Airborne School, Fort Benning, Ga. -- Trainees learn the basic parachuting skills required to infiltrate an objective area by static line airdrop in a three-week course.

• U.S. Air Force Basic Survival School, Fairchild AFB, Wash. -- This two and a half-week course teaches basic survival techniques for remote areas. Instruction includes principles, procedures, equipment and techniques, which enable individuals to survive, regardless of climatic conditions or unfriendly environments and return home.

• Combat Control School, Pope AFB, N.C. -- This 13-week course provides final combat controller qualifications. Training includes physical training, small unit tactics, land navigation, communications, assault zones, demolitions, fire support and field operations including parachuting. At the completion of this course, each graduate is awarded the 3-skill level (journeymen), scarlet beret and CCT flash.

• Special Tactics Advanced Skills Training, Hurlburt Field, Fla. -- Advanced Skills Training is a 12-to-15-month program for newly assigned combat controller operators. AST produces mission-ready operators for the Air Force and U.S. Special Operations Command. The AST schedule is broken down into four phases: water, ground, employment and full mission profile. The course tests the trainee’s personal limits through demanding mental and physical training. Combat controllers also attend the following schools during AST:

U.S. Army Military Free Fall Parachutist School, Fort Bragg, N.C., and Yuma Proving Grounds, Ariz. -- This course instructs free fall parachuting procedures. The five-week course provides wind tunnel training, in-air instruction focusing on student stability, aerial maneuvers, air sense, parachute opening procedures and parachute canopy control.

U.S. Army Combat Divers School, Panama City, Fla. -- Trainees become combat divers, learning to use scuba and closed circuit diving equipment to covertly infiltrate denied areas. The four-week course provides training to depths of 130 feet, stressing development of maximum underwater mobility under various operating conditions.

U.S. Navy Underwater Egress Training, Pensacola Naval Air Station, Fla. -- This one-day course teaches how to safely escape from an aircraft that has ditched in the water. Instruction includes principles, procedures and techniques necessary to get out of a sinking aircraft.

History

Army pathfinders originated in 1943 out of need for accurate airdrops during airborne campaigns of World War II. These pathfinders preceded main assault forces into objective areas to provide weather information and visual guidance to inbound aircraft through the use of high-powered lights, flares and smoke pots.

When the Air Force became a separate service, Air Force pathfinders, later called combat control teams, were activated in 1953 to provide navigational aids and air traffic control for a growing Air Force. In the Vietnam War, combat controllers helped assure mission safety and expedited air traffic flow during countless airlifts. Combat controllers also flew as forward air guides in support of indigenous forces in Laos and Cambodia.

Combat controllers continue to be the "First There" when they are called upon to participate in international emergencies and humanitarian relief efforts.

Mission

Air Force Special Operations Command's Pararescuemen, also known as PJs, are the only Department of Defense specialty specifically trained and equipped to conduct conventional or unconventional rescue operations. These Battlefield Airmen are the ideal force for personnel recovery and combat search and rescue.

A pararescueman's primary function is as a personnel recovery specialist, with emergency medical capabilities in humanitarian and combat environments. They deploy in any available manner, to include air-land-sea tactics, into restricted environments to authenticate, extract, treat, stabilize and evacuate injured personnel, while acting in an enemy-evading, recovery role. PJs participate in search and rescue, combat search and rescue, recovery support for NASA and conduct other operations as appropriate.

Pararescuemen

Pararescuemen are among the most highly trained emergency trauma specialists in the U.S. military. They must maintain an emergency medical technician-paramedic qualification throughout their careers. With this medical and rescue expertise, along with their deployment capabilities, PJs are able to perform life-saving missions in the world's most remote areas.

Their motto "That Others May Live" reaffirms the pararescueman's commitment to saving lives and self-sacrifice. Without PJs, thousands of service members and civilians would have been unnecessarily lost in past conflicts and natural disasters.

Assigned to AFSOC, pararescuemen join forces with combat controllers and special operations weathermen to form a highly trained Special Tactics teams.

Training

Pararescuemen endure some of the toughest training offered in the U.S. military. Their training, as well as their unique mission, earns them the right to wear the maroon beret. They complete the same technical training as EMT-Paramedics, plus the following physical and specialized training.

Pararescue Preparatory Course, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas -- This two-week course provides physical training under the oversight of sports physiologists and swimming trainers to familiarize and teach the trainees the required skills to succeed in the Indoctrination course to follow.

Indoctrination Course, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas -- This 10-week course recruits, selects and trains future PJs through extensive physical conditioning. Training accomplished at this course includes physiological training, obstacle course, rucksack marches, dive physics, dive tables, metric manipulations, medical terminology, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, weapons qualifications, PJ history and leadership reaction course.

U.S. Army Airborne School, Fort Benning, Ga. -- Trainees learn the basic parachuting skills required to infiltrate an objective area by static line airdrop in a three-week course.

U.S. Air Force Combat Divers School, Panama City, Fla. -- Trainees become combat divers, learning to use scuba and closed-circuit diving equipment to covertly infiltrate denied areas, conduct sub-surface searches and basic recovery operations. The six-week course provides training to depths of 130 feet, stressing development of maximum underwater mobility under various operating conditions.

U.S. Navy Underwater Egress Training, Pensacola Naval Air Station, Fla. -- This course teaches how to safely escape from an aircraft that has ditched in the water. The one-day instruction includes principles, procedures and techniques necessary to get out of a sinking aircraft.

U.S. Air Force Basic Survival School, Fairchild AFB, Wash. -- This two and a half-week course teaches basic survival techniques for remote areas. Instruction includes principles, procedures, equipment and techniques, which enable individuals to survive, regardless of climatic conditions or unfriendly environments and return home.

U.S. Army Military Free Fall Parachutist School, Fort Bragg, N.C., and Yuma Proving Grounds, Ariz. -- This course instructs trainees in free fall parachuting procedures. The five-week course provides wind tunnel training, in-air instruction focusing on student stability, aerial maneuvers, air sense and parachute opening procedures.

Paramedic Course, Kirtland AFB, N.M. -- This 22-week course teaches how to manage trauma patients prior to evacuation and provide emergency medical treatment. Upon graduation, an EMT-Paramedic certification is awarded through the National Registry.

Pararescue Recovery Specialist Course, Kirtland AFB, N.M. -- Qualifies airmen as pararescue recovery specialists for assignment to any pararescue unit worldwide. The 24-week training includes field medical care and extrication basics, field tactics, mountaineering, combat tactics, advanced parachuting and helicopter insertion/extraction.

History

The first medical corpsmen were airdropped in 1943 to a downed aircrew in a remote location on the China-Burma border. Pararescemen, known at the time as para-jumpers or PJs, responded to the need for a highly trained rescue force. PJs begin to integrate scuba techniques into their tactics, jumping with more than 170 pounds of equipment.

Pararescuemen proved to be the premier rescue force rescuing downed pilots in the Vietnam War. They also recovered Gemini mission astronauts in the 1960s and San Francisco earthquake victims in 1989.

Pararescuemen continue to deploy so "That Others May Live" whenever they are called to help resolve international emergencies and humanitarian relief efforts.

(Quick note - since this was written, Air Combat Command/ACC has re-assumed the CSAR missions once assigned to AFSOC, so a good little chunck of AF PJs are now assigned to ACC Rescue Squadrons).

The USAF Special Operations Command’s (AFSOC) 427th Special Operations Squadron’s (427th SOS) stated mission is to provide Short Takeoff/Landing (STOL) and tactically qualified crews to support training requirements for the US Army Special Operations Forces (SOF) community. Their customers include the US Army Special Operations Command (USASOC), The US Army Special Forces Command (USASFK), and the John F Kennedy Special Warfare Center (JFKSWCS).

The 427th SOS provides US Army SOF personnel the opportunity to train on various types of aircraft for infiltration and exfiltration that they may encounter in the lesser developed countries in which they provide training. The 427th SOS aircrews must be proficient in smaller types of aircraft in order to familiarize US Army personnel with their characteristics, peculiarities, and capabilities. The 427th SOS is a tenant unit on Pope AFB, NC, and a direct reporting unit Air Force Special Operations Command, Hulbert Field, Florida.

But, according to several published reports, the unit also undertakes clandestine aerial infiltration of US SOF personnel using it’s assigned aircraft. Several news articles have appeared showing the unit’s aircraft, which have been stripped of their official USAF markings, and aircrews, wearing civilian clothing. These rumors are also fed by the fact that the AF no longer lists the unit on it’s official website, and the only publicly available information on its activities was obtained through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

What is known is that the unit maintains and operates a wide variety of civilian and military transport aircraft to include the C212-200, C212-300, CN235, and a PC-6/UV-20A.

US Army Pathfinders trace their origins to the massive airborne operations of World War 2. After a series of mishaps involving airborne troops, it was decided that a force of trained men was needed to help guide transport aircraft and gliders to their intended destinations. The concept originally developed by the British was used as a model.

The original group of volunteers was selected from members of the 82nd Abn Division's 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment. The men were trained to parachute in and mark parachute Drop Zones (DZs) and glider Landing Zones (LZs). The Pathfinders would use colored lights, flares, panels, and smoke to mark the DZ/LZ's. They also provided radio check points to aid in aircraft navigation.

The experimental Pathfinder group was first used during the Allied invasion of Sicily, in 1943. Pathfinder teams jumped in ahead of the main assault force. The teams marked drop zones and set up radar homing devices to guide aircraft to there targets.

The next large scale use of Pathfinders teams occurred during the D-Day operations. Pathfinder teams from the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, were dropped in a few hours before the main assault was to begin. German antiaircraft fire caused many of the aircraft transporting the Pathfinders to veer off course. Because of the disorganized nature of the drop, pathfinder teams were scattered all over the French countryside. Many men found themselves operating alone or in areas they knew nothing about. Many teams were unable to reach their objectives and their missions met with various levels of success. Not long after the Pathfinders landed, the main assault force began landing. The Pathfinders linked up with whatever units they could, and eventually they were able to make their way back to their parent units. Pathfinders went on to participate in every major airborne operation of the war.
With the end of hostilities in 1945 the US began a massive draw down of its military and most of the Pathfinder units were disbanded. After the Air Force became a separate service in 1947 the Air Force claimed that only qualified Air Force personnel should guide Air Force aircraft. The remaining pathfinder units were disbanded and their tasks were assigned to the Air Force's new Air Resupply and Communications Service, the predecessor to the Combat Control Teams.

With the Army's increased use of helicopters during the 1950's, a need was once again felt for the renewed services of Pathfinders. The first group to form a new pathfinder unit was the 11 Air Assault Division (TEST), the first Army unit to actively utilize the helicopter's mobility. As the US became more deeply involved in Vietnam, the Army began to deploy large numbers of combat troops. As these units began to arrive in Vietnam, many began to establish provisional pathfinder units. Pathfinder's were usually assigned to their parent organization's aviation unit. Operating as four man teams they secured, marked, cleared, and established DZ/LZ's; provided initial aircraft guidance at remote locations; and provided some limited air traffic control capabilities.

Unfortunately some unit commanders felt that any unit that "drained" away some of there best trained men, was a luxury that they could not afford. As a result some of the men who volunteered were not qualified. Some teams were misused or deployed for missions outside of there scope. Many of the men assigned as pathfinders had no formal training, instead learning there skills on the job. However, most units found the pathfinders services helpful, in their day to day combat operations.

Originally established in England during WWII, the US army Pathfinder School is located at FT. Benning's Lillyman Hall. Potential pathfinders spend approximately three weeks learning and practicing their new skills. When the US Air Force assumed the combat air traffic control duties in 1951, the school was closed. In 1955, the school was reopened under the Airborne-Air Assault branch of the Infantry School. It continues to operate to this day. During the course students are taught basic air traffic control techniques; drop zone marking techniques; how to use computed air release points (CARPs); the ground marking release system; the Army Aircraft Verbal Initiated Release System and the proper use of the PIBALL weather balloon, to measure mean effective wind.

Today's Pathfinders are trained in airborne, small boat, vehicle, foot, and sometimes free fall infiltration techniques. These small four man teams may be parachuted in up to 72 hours in advance of the main assault force. They provide DZ/LZ surveys; site security; initial aircraft guidance, and mark and clear drop zones for follow-on forces. They are capable of engaging in demolition operations to clear DZ/LZ's of obstacles. If equipped with laser targeting devices (LTD) they may also designate targets of opportunity for air strikes. Pathfinders may be expected to coordinate aircraft movement, control parachute drops of personnel and equipment, conduct sling-load operations and provide initial weather information to commanders.

Currently the US army only maintains two pathfinder units:

• 5/101st Avn. Regiment Pathfinder Co.
• 6/101 Avn. Regiment Pathfinder Co.

Some of the most recent pathfinder operations were conducted during Operation Desert Storm. Pathfinder teams assigned to the 101 Abn. Div.(AA), deployed in support of the 101's air assault into Iraq. The Pathfinder teams were flown into Iraq by division aviation assets. Once their the ground the teams deployed radio homing beacons and helped establish Forward Arming and Refueling Points (FARPs) for the division's aviation units. The Pathfinders also acted as the Aviation Brigade's Quick Reaction Force (QRF). On one occasion the platoon rushed out to retrieve EPWs (Enemy Prisoners of War) for interrogation by Army intelligence staff.

One three man Pathfinder team was compromised by Iraqi troops operating in the area. The team’s commander immediately called for an emergency extraction. Because of an emergency situation elsewhere, the team was ordered to remain in place. With no choice left the team’s commander ordered an attack on the Iraqi's position. The Pathfinders successfully attacked and captured an Iraqi bunker, capturing a number of EPWs and classified documents in the process. All three men later received Bronze stars for their actions.

Pathfinder teams have also deployed to support US domestic law enforcement agencies, during counter drug operations. The pathfinder teams provided tactical ground intelligence to law enforcement aviation assets, during aerial drug sweeps.

Most recently Pathfinders from the 101st have deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). During the deployment, small teams of Pathfinders conducted surveillance operations along the Iraqi/Syrian border, conducted raids on suspected militant safe-houses, and other operations in support of the division.

Quick Note - I wrote this article way back in the 90's and updated several times since then, with the last update being in 2005. Since then, the 82nd Airborne has apparently formed a Pathfinder unit with troops from it's disbanded LRSD.

KCT & SFMARNS

NL Special Forces consist of Army Special Forces, the so-called Korps Commando Troepen (KCT), and a battalion-sized unit, and of Special Forces from the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps (SFMARNS). In July 2000 the NL CHOD stated that KCT would be responsible for land-oriented special operations (to include counterterrorism (CT) in hostile environments) and SFMARNS would be responsible for maritime or amphibious special operations and for national counterterrorism.

NL Special Forces are currently participating in operations in Afghanistan with a joint task group. The NL SFTG is composed of a NL Army Special Forces company, two SF teams of the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps and a RNLAF CH-47 detachment. This NL SFTG will be in Afghanistan until spring 2006 and works for a coalition CJSOTF.

SFMARNS

Within the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps (RNLMC), there are two units that are special operations forces, organized within the Combat Support Battalion. The first unit is the 1st Company SFMARNS or the Bijzondere Bijstand Eenheid (BBE). This unit was created in 1973. It is the national counterterrorist unit and is tasked by the Secretary of Justice in the event of hostage situations and other complex terrorist situations including maritime counterterrorism (MCT). The BBE is very well equipped and trained and is at very high readiness to execute CT missions.

The BBE is well known for its hostage rescue operations in 1977, conducting simultaneous operations on a train and at a school. Both locations were occupied by Moluccan terrorists. Every other year the BBE organizes an international CT exercise, called Black Tulip.

The second unit is the 2nd Company SFMARNS, or the long-range reconnaissance company. Within this company there are two very specialized units, the mountain leader reconnaissance platoon (MLVERKPEL) and the amphibious reconnaissance platoon (AMFVERKPEL), also known as 7th Troop NL SBS. This company is capable of conducting special operations (MC 437), projected from a maritime or amphibious environment, using submarines as a launching platform, for example. In addition, 7th Troop NL SBS would support the BBE in the event of a MCT task.

The Marines of SFMARNS have been deployed on several missions in the past couple of years. In 1997, Marines, supported by Army commandos, arrested two war criminals in Bosnia. In 1999, Marines conducted Joint Commissioned Observer tasks in Bosnia, together with Army commandos. In 2002/2003, Marines participated in a Joint Task Group, standing by for CT operations in Macedonia. In 2003/2004, SFMARNS provided field liaison teams in support of RNLMC battalions in Iraq. Recently, SFMARNS conducted a special operation in Bosnia in order to arrest a war criminal. Shortly after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, the BBE was deployed to Amsterdam and Rotterdam to conduct counterterrorism operations.

In the near future, SFMARNS will participate in NRF 6 with a small NL SOTG, working for a USSOCEUR-led CJSOTF.

The Future

NL Special Forces are a unique set of tools in the NL Ministry of Defence toolbox and have proved to be a force multiplier in recent years and in a variety of missions. In December 2004, the NL CHOD released a study on NL Special Forces, indicating that the role of Special Forces will increase in the Netherlands’ foreign and military policy. NL MoD has allotted funds within the next two years or so to improve land and waterborne mobility (SOF vehicles and RHIBs), SOF communications systems and SF fits and ancillaries for the CH-47s.

Article by N-SPECOPS Command.

Air-Naval Gunfire Liaison Company

ANGLICO (Air-Naval Gunfire Liaison COmpany) refers to several small units of the United States Marine Corps who specialize in coordinating artillery, naval gunfire and close air support between the Marine Corps and U.S. Navy, and U.S. Army units and the armed forces of US allies. They serve as liaison units by providing capabilities normally contained in Marine Corps units to direct and control naval air support and shore bombardment to Army and foreign units which lack this capability; and in coordinating the fire support assets between Marine Corps and other US or allied units in the field.

Motto

A motto common to ANGLICO units is "Lightning from the Sky, Thunder from the Sea".

Training

ANGLICO units require Marines who are proficient in a wide variety of specialized military skills. In addition to their primary MOS training necessary to coordinate fire support, such as artillery fire support, field radio operations, direct air support operations, and naval gunfire spotting; all ANGLICO Marines receive airborne training and jump qualification at the Army's Airborne School at Fort Benning, making ANGLICO one of the few Marine Corps units in which all Marines are jump-qualified. ANGLICO Marines regularly receive further advanced training in other insertion methods, fieldcraft, SERE, and other specialized and demanding activities. This, combined with the fact that ANGLICO Marines routinely serve with and must cross-train with a wide variety of US and Allied units around the world such as the British Army's 148th FOB, including Recon and Special Operations units and foreign services, makes ANGLICO units among the toughest and most highly regarded in the Marine Corps.

ANGLICO units can deploy as an entire company of 150 to support the large-scale operations of an entire Marine Expeditionary Force, or, more commonly, deploy in 4 to 7 man teams to support the activities of non-Marine units.

History

The History of ANGLICO dates back to the formation of JASCO (Joint Assault Signals Company) units who fought in the Pacific theatre of World War II. At the time, the JASCO units were used to coordinate air, artillery and naval gunfire support between the Marines, Army and US Navy during the Pacific "island hopping" campaign. Following the reorganization of the US Armed Forces under the Department of Defense in 1947, the JASCO units were disbanded and their responsibility transferred to the US Navy. In 1949, the Marine Corps began the process of recreating the JASCO capability under the new ANGLICO designation, and 1st ANGLICO was activated on 2 March 1951 at Pearl Harbor.

In 1999, 1st and 2nd ANGLICO were deactivated, their responsibilities transferred to Marine Expeditionary Force Liaison elements, and the two reserve units, 3rd and 4th ANGLICO were the only ANGLICO units left in the Corps. In 2003, amidst the US war in Iraq and global war on terror and a high operational tempo being demanded of the reserve ANGLICO units, 1st and 2nd ANGLICO were reactivated, followed by the new 5th ANGLICO in 2004.

Current Units

At present, five ANGLICO companies currently exist in the United States Marine Corps:

• 1st ANGLICO - I Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Pendleton, California
• 2nd ANGLICO - 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
• 3rd ANGLICO - Marine Forces Reserve at Terminal Island, Long Beach, California
• 4th ANGLICO - Marine Forces Reserve at West Palm Beach, Florida,
• 5th ANGLICO - III Marine Expeditionary Force on Okinawa, Japan

thank yuo for this post. helps alot for a game i wanna run.

SoulofThunder wrote:thank yuo for this post. helps alot for a game i wanna run.

You're welcome, I'll be adding more material as I get time.

Very nice additions! I have to make sure I remeber to come to this area of the forum more often! Please keep up the great work!

Thanks, I've got more stuff to post on US, UK, Canadian and Aussie SOF units. I've got to find the old article I wrote on the British Army's Pathfinder Company, and update it to reflect their new role. After that I plan on posting some stuff on some of their specialist units.

Cool! I can't wait to see it posted here! Thank you for the up date!

Since I a little busy, here's something on Delta I dug up on the net. I'll add additional comments and info later.

The 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta

SFOD-D

The 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta (1st SFOD-D), commonly known as Delta within the US Army or as Delta Force by the general public and officially recognized by the Pentagon as the Combat Applications Group, is a Special Operations Force (SOF) and an element of the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC).

The force's main task is counter-terrorism, although it is extremely versatile. Delta Force is believed to conduct missions similar to those regularly attributed to the British Special Air Service (SAS), after which it was modeled.

Background
The Pentagon tightly controls information about Delta Force and publicly refuses to comment on the secretive unit. The unit took part in Operation Eagle Claw, the failed attempt to rescue American hostages from the U.S. Embassy in Tehran in 1980. The mission failed due to an overly complex plan, inadequate Special Operations Aviation training for the aircrews, a collision between a rescue helicopter and a re-fuelling tanker aircraft, and mechanical problems with the helicopters transporting the rescuers, caused by a severe sandstorm clogging the engine intakes and reducing visibility to nothing. After the debacle, the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment was created to transport special forces personnel to and from Areas of Operation.

Since the 1990s, the Army has posted recruitment notices for the 1st SFOD-D, which many believe refers to Delta Force. The Army, however, has never released an official fact sheet for the force.

In 1999, writer Mark Bowden published the book Black Hawk Down: A Story of Modern War which chronicles the events that surrounded the October 3, 1993 Battle of Mogadishu. The book, in a short brief, relates Delta Force's involvement in the operations that occurred before the events leading to the battle. The book was later turned into a film by director Ridley Scott in 2001.

Operations
According to the book Inside Delta Force by CSM Eric L. Haney (ret.), the smallest unit is a team, consisting of four to five members. Each team specializes in HALO/HAHO, SCUBA, or other skill groups. The next tier is the troop level, consisting of four to five teams. Finally, squadron level (there are four squadrons) consists of two troops (Assault and Sniper). Squadrons are broken down into troops and teams as needed to fit mission requirements.

Each individual member of Delta is known as an operator such as in the Australian SAS. This was to avoid confusion with the CIA's term operative.

In "Not A Good Day To Die: The Untold Story Of Operation Anaconda", Army Times staff writer Sean Naylor describes Delta as having nearly 1,000 soldiers. Naylor wrote that only 250 of those are operators trained to conduct direct-action and reconnaissance missions. Those soldiers are divided into three squadrons—A, B, and C—with each squadron subdivided into three troops. Two are assault troops while a third troop specializes in reconnaissance and surveillance and is known as the "recce" troop. The remaining soldiers in Delta are highly trained specialists in mechanics, communications, intelligence and other support activities, and a headquarters staff. Naylor also wrote that Delta maintains an aviation squadron based somewhere else on the East Coast.
Real world examples of some missions with which Delta is tasked are represented below:

1979 - Worked with the FBI at the Pan American Games in Puerto Rico as part of an anti-terrorist team set up to anticipate possible terrorist activity at the event.

1983 - Participated in Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada, including the air assault of Richmond Hill prison to free imprisoned regime opponents as well as assisting in the seizure of a key airfield. The Richmond Hill prison seizure had to be abandoned due to delays which pushed the launch date into daylight hours and allowed unexpected anti-air cover to defend the compound against the helicopters supposed to ferry in the troops.

1984 - Deployed to the Middle East in response to the hijacking of a Kuwaiti Airlines airliner, during which two Americans were killed.

1985 - Again deployed in response to a hijacking, this time to Cyprus in anticipation of an assault on a seized TWA airliner.

1987 - Sent to Greece to secure U.S. Army Col. James "Nick" Rowe in response to reports that Vietnamese communist agents were planning an action against him.

1989 - Successfully rescued an imprisoned U.S. citizen during the opening minutes of Operation Just Cause in Panama and participated in the widespread search for Gen. Manuel Noriega and his advisors.

1991 - Deployed to the Gulf in 1991, both to serve as bodyguards for senior U.S. officers and, later, as part of a massive effort to locate and destroy mobile SCUD launchers in Iraq's northern deserts.

1993 - As part of Task Force Ranger, took part in numerous operations to apprehend warlord Mohamad Farah Aidid in Mogadishu, Somalia.

1997 - Small advance team sent to Lima, Peru immediately following the takeover of the Japanese Ambassador's residence in January 1997 along with six members of the British SAS.

SFOD in modern conflicts
One of several operations in which Delta Force operators are thought to have played important roles was the invasion of Iraq in 2003. They allegedly entered Baghdad in advance, undercover with long hair and moustaches, along with SEALs from DEVGRU, guiding air strikes, building networks of informants while eavesdropping on and sabotaging Iraqi communication lines.

The force was also involved in the offensive against the Taliban in Afghanistan in 2002. Many observers strongly suspect that members of Delta Force made up one of two units involved in a raid on a residence belonging to Mullah Omar. According to the Pentagon, the level of resistance to that operation was minimal.

The Mullah was not present but some papers and computer disks were said to have been seized in the raid. Critics later alleged that the second unit was unnecessary, claiming that it was very large and uncoordinated. As a result, they say, the defenders were alerted early and the number of friendly casualties was in fact higher than reported. According to the book Shadow Wars by David Pugliese, Delta operators wanted a quiet insertion method which was denied as command opted for a combined Ranger assault. Taliban fighters apparently ambushed the team when they were extracting and several Delta operators were severely wounded.

Delta Force operators are granted an enormous amount of flexibility and autonomy, as with their Navy counterpart, DEVGRU. They reportedly do not maintain any general uniformed presence and civilian clothing is the norm on or off duty while at Ft. Bragg. This is done to conceal the identities of these "secret soldiers". Uniforms are rarely worn, if at all, with any markings, names, or branch names on them. Hair styles and facial hair are allowed to grow to civilian standards in order for the force to be able to blend in and not be immediately recognized as military personnel.

This special status that sets the force apart from the "regular army" is depicted quite accurately in the book Black Hawk Down by Mark Bowden, and the film of the same name. The Army Rangers in the media, elite by their own right, have the standard "high and tight" haircuts (**Rangers no longer sport the high & tight, as their mission has drastically changed), yet the Delta operators are seen to be sporting much longer styles with side burns, un-shaven faces, and non-military issue helmets (actually hockey helmets, more to protect from bumps and scrapes while entering buildings than against gunfire, as noted in the book) and boots.

According to Black Hawk Down: A Story of Modern War, Delta Force members are typically referred to by other personnel as "D-Boys", "Operators", "Rocks", or simply "Delta". The book also mentions that they hold little regard for rank within their force and refer to one another only by nicknames. Throughout the book Delta soldiers are recorded as expressing contempt for other, more regular US Army units, dismissing their training and combat performance.

Delta's unconventional nature also allows its operators to carry highly customized weapons. Although their standard weapon of choice may be the M4 carbine, they also use the SOPDMOD Special Operations Peculiar Modification) kit on the M4, and it is not unusual to find them carrying foreign weapon systems that are often used by the enemy in the Area of Operation (AO). This is to either help them "blend in" with the locals or to use the ammunition from slain enemy fighters.
Additionally, in his book Killing Pablo, Mark Bowden suggests that a Delta Force sniper may have assassinated Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar. There is no hard evidence of this though and credit is generally attributed to Colombian security forces.

Operations
Operation Eagle Claw: Iran, 1980
Operation Urgent Fury: Grenada, 1983
Operation Acid Gambit: Panama, 1989
Operation Just Cause: Panama, 1989
Operation Desert Shield: Iraq, 1990
Operation Desert Storm: Iraq, 1991
Operation Restore Hope: Somalia, 1993
Operation Gothic Serpent: the operation that led to the Battle of Mogadishu, 1992
Operation Enduring Freedom: Afghanistan, 2001
Operation Anaconda: Afghanistan, 2002 - Ongoing
Operation Iraqi Freedom: Iraq, 2003 - Ongoing

Recruitment and Training
Most recruits come from the United States Army Special Forces (Green Berets) and 75th Ranger Regiment, but recruits are also drawn from all branches of the Army, including the Army Reserve and Army National Guard.

Contrary to popular belief, Delta Force does not recruit its members solely from the Army. The truth, as reflected by a Marine Corps bulletin, is that Delta Force recruits from all four U.S. armed services.

Their main compound, called the Security Operations Training Facility, stands in a remote area of Fort Bragg, North Carolina and is thought to house less than 200 personnel. This is a testament to their rigorous training and very highest of standards, which is further demonstrated by a 7% percent success rate through selection and training. Reports of the compound mention numerous shooting facilities for close-quarters battle, long-range sniping and counter-sniping, a dive tank, an Olympic size swimming pool, a huge climbing wall, and a mock-up of an airliner.

NOTES

Delta also goes by the the 1st Combat Applications Group (1st CAG), CAG, the Combat Development Branch, and simply Green (SEAL Team 6/DEVGRU is referred to as Blue, the Rangers Black, and ISA as Orange). Delta's in the process of expanding by adding a 4th squadron and replacing losses it's suffered over the last few years. I'll also list other known Delta operations a little later.

Nice addition! I like the history of them. They sound very nasty!

Aramanthus wrote:Nice addition! I like the history of them. They sound very nasty!

Delta, the USN's DEVGRU, are what are known as Special Missions Units (SMU), they, along with several other units (ISA, 1st Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, the USAF's 24th Special Tactics Squadron, and other units), fall under the control of the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC). JSOC are the guys tasked with conducting CT and other "sensitive" or "black" missions (they're the one's that are chasing OBL in Afghanistan and got Saddam and his family in Iraq). I'll post an old article I wrote on JSOC many moons ago next.

After the failed attempt to rescue US hostages being held prisoner in Iran, the US military immediately began planning for a second rescue attempt. As part of this panning a number of new special operations units were formed within the armed forces. To help prevent some of the confusion that developed during the planning, and execution phases of the first rescue attempt, a new command structure was activated to control these new units. This new command would eventually evolve into the Joint Special Operations Command, or JSOC.

Activated on December 15, 1980 and based at Pope AFB, NC JSOC's publicly-released posture statement states that JSOC performs the following missions:

* provides a standing joint special operations task force
* provides joint special operations planning
* studies joint special operations requirements and techniques
* ensures interoperability and equipment standardization
* conducts joint special operations exercises

Although JSOC's stated purpose is to provide a unified command structure for conducting joint special operations and exercises, numerous reports have stated that JSOC is actually the command responsible for conducting US counter-terrorism (CT) operations. According to published reports, JSOC commands the US military's Special Missions Units (SMUs). These SMUs are tasked with conducting CT operations, strike operations, reconnaissance in denied areas, and special intelligence missions.

JSOC units have reportedly been involved in a number of covert military operations over the last two decades. Some of the operations that have come to light include providing assistance to Italian authorities during their search for kidnapped US Army Gen. James Dozier, participating in Operation Urgent Fury; the US invasion of Grenada, planning a rescue attempt of US hostages being held in Lebanon, rescuing hostages being held aboard the cruise liner Achille Lauro, participating in Operation Just Cause; the US intervention in Panama, directing US Scud hunting efforts during Operation Desert Storm, conducting operations in support of UN mandates in Somalia, and searching for suspected war criminals in the former Republic of Yugoslavia.

Recently the veil of secrecy surrounding JSOC has been lifted a little more. Press reports have indicates that US SMUs have been tasked with conducting counter-proliferation operations against countries producing weapons of mass destruction.

Currently JSOC is believed to command the following units:

* Headquarters JSOC (HQ JSOC)
* Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion (HHBN)
* 1st Capabilities Integration Group (1st CIG) - The former Intelligence Support Activity (ISA), AKA: The Activity or TF Orange - operates under various cover names
* 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta "Delta" (AKA: the Combat Development Group, or Combat Applications Group)
* Regimental Reconnaissance Company (RRC)
* Aviation Technology Office (ATO) - Formerly the Flight Concepts Division (FCD) - A covert Army aviation unit
* Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU)
* USAF 724th Special Tactics Group - (724th STG)
* 1st Joint Special Operations Air Component (1st JSOAC) - Formerly the Aviation Tactics and Evaluation Group (AVTEG) - A joint aviation unit (operating under various cover names)
* 66th Air Operations Squadron (66th AOS) - A covert USAF unit flying modified C-130s
* 427th Special Operations Squadron (427th SOS) - A USAF "Covered Air" unit flying "Non-Standard Aviation"
* Joint Communications Unit (JCU) - JSOC's communication unit
* Special Operations Logistics Support Element (SOLSE)
* Special Operations Aerial Delivery Element (SOADE)
* Joint Medical Augmentation Unit (JMAU)
* JSOC Intelligence Brigade (JIB)
*19th Intelligence Squadron
*Detachment 1, 25th Intelligence Squadron (USAF)
*Operating Location Alpha, 68th Network Warfare Squadron (USAF)
* Joint Cyber Operations Group (JCOG) - Formerly the Joint Communications Integration Element (JCIE), JSOC cyberwarfare unit
* Technical Application Programs Office - JSOC's technical intelligence unit
* Joint Inter-Agency Task Force-National Capital Region (JIATF-NCR) - Formerly the Targeting and Analysis Center (TAAC)

Other US special operations forces may operate in support of JSOC depending on their operational needs. The primary units that operate in this manner include the following:
* 75th Ranger Regiment
* 160th SOAR, primarily the 1st Bn. with its "Little Bird" helicopters.
* USAF Special Operations Squadrons, especially the 55th SOS and their MC-130 squadrons.

JSOC units regularly conduct training with similar units from around the world, and provide training to nations that request US support. JSOC has also provide support to domestic law enforcement agencies during high profile, or high risk events such as the Olympics; the World Cup; political party conventions; and Presidential inaugurations.

Here's an article I wrote on the Joint Communications Unit (JCU). It's about 10 years old, and things have changed a little since it was written, but it should give you an idea of what the unit is all about.

Joint Communications Unit
(JCU)

In the investigation that followed the failed attempt to rescue US hostages from Iran a number of deficiencies were identified. One of the main factors contributing to the confusion at Desert One was the lack of compatibility between communications systems, and the fact that each service involved had different standard operating procedures.

To alleviate some of the confusion and standardize communication procedures when conducting joint special operations, the Joint Chiefs of staff ordered the formation of a new joint-service communication unit. The new unit was designated the Joint Communication Unit (JCU), and was activated in 1980 at Ft. Bragg, NC, and assigned to the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC). The unit's initial cadre of personnel was drawn from special operations communications personnel assigned to the Joint Chiefs of Staff's (JCS) Joint Communication Support Element (JCSE).

The JCU is tasked with ensuring standardization of communications procedures and equipment used by JSOC, and its subordinate units. It is also tasked with providing a link between deployed JSOC units, other special operations and military units, other government agencies, and the National Command Authority (NCA). JCU is required to maintain doctrinal expertise in the use all the services communications equipment. JCU is also proficient in the use US governmental agency's and allied military communications systems.

In June of 1981 JCU assumed the responsibility of providing communications support for US special operations conducting counter terrorist (CT) operations, from the JCSE. Prior to this specially selected, airborne trained Army and Air Force personnel assigned to JCSE Quick Reaction Element teams supported CT exercises, and missions. Since its initial activation JCU personnel have supported every JSOC deployment.

In october of 1983 the JCU deployed as part of JSOC task force conducting operations on the Caribbean island of Grenada. For its actions during the operation, the unit was awarded a Joint Meritorious Unit Award.

JCU personnel also deployed to provide support to JSOC forces during the planned attempt to rescue hostages being held on the hijacked Italian cruise ship Achille Lauro.

In 1990 JCU communicators were deployed to the desert Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The US deployment was code named Operation Desert Storm, and was the largest deployment of US forces since Vietnam. As part of the build up of US troops, JSOC had covertly deployed a a Joint Special Operations Task Force (JSOTF), composed of several military Special Mission Units (SMUs), to the area. With the JSPTF initial mission no longer necessary, the task force was used to hunt form Iraqi mobile SCUD launchers, in an operation code named Elusive Concept. JCU personnel provided critical support between JSOC units operating in the field, and and higher headquarters elements. For its support of JSOC units during the Gulf Conflict, the JCU and its personnel, were awarded a third Joint Meritorious Unit award.

In the fall of 1993 JCU personnel once again deployed in support of JSOC units operating in a hostile environment. The US had deployed a military force in support of UN peace keeping operations in the nation of Somalia. As part of that support the US had ordered the secret deployments of a JSOC JSOTF. The JSOTF was tasked with capturing rouge Somali warlord Gen. Mohammad Farh Adid. The JCU provided a communications link between the JSOTF, the US CINC, NCA, and other UN forces operating in the country.

Most recently JSOC units have been operating in the Balkans supporting NATO peace keeping operations in the Former Yugoslavia. JCU personnel have provided support to these operations.

Here's an article I wrote way back in either 98 or 99 on South Korea's primary CT force, the 707th Special Missions Battalion. It appeared in the Singapore MOD's official journal, along with several photos I got form the South Korean Special Forces Association.

707th Special Missions Battalion

The 707th Special Missions Battalion, part of the Republic of Korea's Army Special Warfare Command (ROKA SOCOM), is South Korea's primary counter terrorist and quick reaction force. The unit's soldiers – distinguished by their black berets – are tasked with conducting urban counter terrorist missions, and constitute the Army's quick-reaction force for emergencies. During wartime they perform clandestine special-warfare assignments. This elite force of operators was formed after the Munich Olympic disaster in 1972. The South Korean government realized the need to raise a specially trained unit to handle the many threats facing it. These threats ranged from North Korean special operations forces conducting operations to destabilize the government to foreign terrorist organizations operating on Korean soil.

In 1982 the South Korean government tasked the battalion with providing a counter terrorist response to any potential terrorist incident occurring during the upcoming 1988 Seoul Summer Olympics. The unit immediately began a program to rapidly expand it strength and operational capabilities, almost tripling in size.

The 707th provided security for VIPs and for key facilities during the 1986 Asian Games and during the 1988 Olympics. At both events terrorist attacks were considered to be a real danger. In addition, the unit has reportedly seen extensive action against North Korean infiltraters, and according to several unconfirmed reports, they have also conducted multiple operations on the North Korean mainland.

The Songham City based unit is currently composed of approximately 300 operational personnel who are split into six companies; two of which are actually tasked with conducting counter terrorist missions. Each of the counter terrorist teams is organized around four 14-man operations teams. Support and demolitions teams also exist to augment the main teams.

It is also reported that the 707th maintains a group of female operators for use in situations where a woman would not be suspected of posing a risk, such as an aircraft hijacking where food and medicine might be allowed to be taken on board.

Prospective candidates for the battalion are only drawn from the ranks of qualified special forces personnel. Special Forces operator training and selection lasts for a full year, and includes six months of basic infantry combat training, with an additional six months of special warfare training and parachute training. During the special warfare portion of their training are provided instruction in basic parachute techniques, rappelling and mountain warfare, martial arts, fire arms instruction, and demolitions.

Korean special forces personnel are well known for their toughness, and 707th SMB personnel are reportedly even tougher. Throughout their training physical fitness is stressed and students are driven hard by their instructors. Various reports have stated that members frequently perform daily calisthenics in the snow and subzero temperatures, and swim in freezing lakes without any thermal protection.

Those special forces personnel wishing to volunteer for service in the unit must first pass an extensive background check and endure a ten day selection process that eliminates approximately 90% of the applicants. Counter-terrorist training for the 707th is intensive, and once an operator is accepted into the unit he will receive additional instruction in combat shooting, breaching, assault tactics, SCUBA diving, and various other skills.

The battalion's training facility, which is reportedly one of the finest in the world, has an extensive network of range facilities allowing for the development of CQB skills in the unit's operators. It also reportedly contains a complete mockup of a 747 airliner, allowing operators the opportunity to conduct live fire training exercises, and hone their aircraft takedown skills.

In addition to working with other Korean special operations forces and special Korean counter terrorist police units, such as the Korean National Police Agency's SWAT team, the 707th maintains close ties with similar units from around the globe, including Singapore's STAR team, the Australian SASR's Tactical Assault Group (TAG), and Hong Kong's SDU, although the unit's closets ties are with the US Army's 1st Special Forces Group, and the 1st SFOD-D.

he South Korean government lavishly funds the battalion, and as a result they use a wide variety of foreign and domestically produced weapons. Pistols include modified versions of the US produced Colt .45 and the Daewoo 9mm. The HK MP-5 is now used as the primary submachine gun for assaults. Both the Daewoo K1 and K2 assault rifles are used, albeit modified for assaults with the addition of forward pistol grips and in some cases low-light vision devices. For rearguards a Benelli Super-90 shotgun with pistol grips is used. For light sniping the HK PSG-1 and M-24 7.62mm rifles have been used, heavier sniping needs are cause for the RAI .50 caliber weapon to be broken out. When heavier firepower is needed the unit has M-203 40mm grenade launchers, M-60E3 and K3 Beltfed 7.62mm machine guns at its disposal. The unit has also deployed Short Brothers Javelin man-portable SAMs as a defense against low level aircraft.

Cool additions. I think the history adds a lot of flavor to the subject. Please keep them coming!

Thanks, good read. I think I read your article on RRD elsewhere.

Mercalocalypse wrote:Thanks, good read. I think I read your article on RRD elsewhere.

Could be. I originally wrote it up for Specwarnet.net, and I posted a copy of it over on military photos.net

Looking forward to seeing more new stuff when you have a chance to post it!

Aramanthus wrote:Looking forward to seeing more new stuff when you have a chance to post it!

I'm pretty much just relaxing the last few days, trying to enjoy my leave. Unfortunately I have to head back to Iraq next week. Once I get back, and get settled into my regular routine (convoy escort or route clearance duties), I'll start posting more stuff. I also need to go back and update info in articles I wrote in the 90's as most of it is out of date. While I'm thinking about it, I know that a couple of guys have asked for info on Aussie SOF units, any other requests?

JTF-1, MARSOC, SBS, Royal Marines, Paras. Ask and you shall recieve....

Mercalocalypse wrote:JTF-1,

I'm guessing you mean Canada's Joint Task Force 2, correct? A buddy of mine wrote up a decent article on them a few years back (actually it was in the late 90's). I'll see if I can dig it up, and update the info, as they've been in Bosnia, Haiti, Peru, and Afghanistan since then.

quote]

I'm guessing you mean Canada's Joint Task Force 2, correct? A buddy of mine wrote up a decent article on them a few years back (actually it was in the late 90's). I'll see if I can dig it up, and update the info, as they've been in Bosnia, Haiti, Peru, and Afghanistan since then.[/quote]

Ya, ha. JTF-1 was the command that I was outside of in Iraq.

Becareful back in the sandbox! Keep your head!

Mercalocalypse wrote:JTF-1, MARSOC, SBS, Royal Marines, Paras. Ask and you shall recieve....

I've been doing some digging on MARSOC's current organization, and at the moment, it's undergoing a restructuring and expansion to bring it more in line with the way it's actually being employed in combat. Here's the latest straight form MARSOC on how they plan to look when it's done, and a few notes I'm throwing in on the side.

On February 23, 2006, MARSOC activated at Camp Lejeune, NC. MARSOC initially consisted of a small staff and the Foreign Military Training Unit (FMTU), which had been formed to conduct Foreign Internal Defense (FID). FMTU is now designated as the Marine Special Operations Advisor Group (MSOAG).

In the months after the activation of MARSOC the structure and personnel of both 1st and 2nd Force Reconnaissance Company transferred to MARSOC to form the 1st and 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalions.

MARSOC also formed the Marine Special Operations Support Group (MSOSG) and the Marine Special Operations School (MSOS). The MSOSG provides combat support and combat service support to MARSOC Units, to include: Logistics; Communication; Intelligence; and K-9 support. The MSOS Recruits, Screens, Assesses, Selects, Trains, and Certifies Marine Special Operations Forces (MARSOF) and has responsibility for doctrine development.

As a service component of USSOCOM, MARSOC is tasked by the Commander USSOCOM to train, organize, equip; and when directed by CDRUSSOCOM, deploy task organized, scaleable, and responsive U.S. Marine Corps special operations forces worldwide in support of combatant commanders and other agencies. MARSOC has been directed to conduct Foreign Internal Defense (FID), Direct Action (DA), and Special Reconnaissance (SR). MARSOC has also been directed to develop a capability in Unconventional Warfare (UW), Counter Terrorism (CT), and Information Operations (IO). Commander, USSOCOM assigns MARSOC missions based on USSOCOM priorities. MARSOC units then deploy under USSOCOM Deployment Orders.

MARSOC deployed its first units in August 2006, 6 months after initial activation. Since then, MARSOC has continuously deployed. MARSOC’s current deployments include MSOAG Teams conducting FID and Marine Special Operations Companies (MSOCs) from the MSOBs conducting DA, SR, and FID.

Building MARSOF, like all special operations forces, is a combination of efforts which include selecting individuals with the required attributes, giving them advanced training, and then retaining them in the unit for an extended period of time to build experience, continuity, and relationships with other nations.

All members of MARSOC are Recruited and Screened. Marines and Sailors intended to serve as operators are then Assessed and Selected. Assessment and Selection (A&S) is an intensive 3 week testing program that determines whether or not a candidate has the attributes required to be MARSOF. MARSOF Operators must be mature, intelligent, mentally flexible, determined, and physically fit. They must be complex problem solvers who are comfortable working in an ambiguous environment. Candidates with these attributes are selected and subsequently assigned to MARSOC.

Initial members of MARSOC were screened, but joined the command without attending A&S. MARSOC conducted class 1 of A&S in the Spring of 2007. Beginning in Fall 2007, all intended MARSOF Operators entering the command must attend A&S. Marines who are assigned to 1st or 2nd MSOB as operators are already Reconnaissance Marines. They participate in specialized unit level training to prepare them to conduct assigned SOF missions. Marines who join MSOAG attend a 7 month individual pipeline that trains them in all required skills for their mission. Further unit level collective training completes their preparation for deployment.

Beginning in October 2008, all MARSOF Operators will attend the MARSOC Initial Training Course (ITC). ITC will be an in-depth training program that covers the language, culture, technical, and tactical skills required for MARSOC’s assigned tasks. All operators will have the same baseline training and then receive further specialized training based on the unit that they are assigned to.

MARSOC has started a reorganization. The primary purpose is to better balance the capabilities of MARSOF and better balance the operator/support ratio within MARSOC to execute direct and indirect missions. The reorganization enables a long term relevant special operations force with greater self sufficiency.

Based on requirements from USSOCOM and Theater Special Operations Commands, MARSOC identified the need to have greater capacity in FID. The reorganization provides more capacity by reducing capacity in other areas.

After action reports from deployments identified a significant shortfall in the ability of an MSOC to be user-friendly and plug into a JSOTF with minimal impact. The reorganization addresses that shortfall by increasing the Combat Service Support in an MSOC. In the reorganization, MARSOC will adopt a uniform naming convention. The base unit of MARSOC will be the 14-man Marine Special Operations Team (MSOT), commanded by a Captain. All MSOTs will have the same organization.

MSOTs will be part of a Marine Special Operations Company, commanded by a Major. Each MSOC headquarters will have the same structure. All MSOCs will be elements of an MSOB, commanded by a LtCol. The uniform naming convention gives MARSOC consistent, clearly understood force modules which enable effective resourcing and joint employment.

The restructured MARSOC will be more agile, user-friendly, and relevant for the long term. It will provide operational commanders with well trained Marine Special Operations Forces that are prepared to execute the assigned missions.

**Additional Notes**

The MSOAG currently has two companies, A&B. Alpha Co. is responsible for Africa & the Arabian peninsula, while Bravo Co. handles South America, Central Asia, and the Southeast Pacific. Recruits to the MSOAG undertake a six month Initial Training Pipeline which allows them to become Subject Matter Experts (SME) in wide range of skills including, demolitions, logistics, medical skills, weapons and small unit tactics. All of which is capped off with a Deployment Certification Exercise (DepCertEx)

Each MSOB will eventually have four MSOC. The Companies are sub-divided Special Reconnaissance/Direct Action (SR/DA) Teams, primarily composed of former Force Reconnaissance Marines. There's more, but I've got to dig through the info, and sort it out.

Excellent addition! Can't wait to see your next new one!

I've been feeling motivated to do some writing, namely because I'm stuck in a med hold, and figured I'd resurrect this thread. I'll post a few updates, as well some older articles I wrote on the FBI HRT, BORTAC, and USMS SOG. I'll also post some stuff on some of the UK units that some associates of mine wrote, later this evening.

I've been slacking with posting info, and finally dug around to pull up some stuff on some UK STA units, first up is the Honourable Artillery Company.

Honourable Artillery Company

The Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) is the oldest regiment within the British Army. It has a long and distinguished history. The HAC is now a renowned regiment within Britain's Territorial Army (TA).

The Honourable Artillery Company's current role is one of Surveillance and Target Acquisition. The HAC train to operate in small teams of 4-6 men, inserting into enemy-held territory in order to gather intelligence and find targets for deep strike systems such as MLRS artillery and strike aircraft. There are 3 of these Patrol Squadrons within the HAC. The HAC's role is identical to 4/73 Battery of the regular Army's Royal Artillery. In time of war, 4/73 Bty would in fact form a fourth Patrol Squadron for the HAC.

HAC patrol squadrons are trained in long range communications, navigation and target recognition. At least one member of a given patrol will be a fully trained medic.

Communications support is provided by Signal Squadron.

HAC Selection and Training
Selection for the Honourable Artillery Company is open to civilians aged 18-32 (or older for those with previous military experience).

Those without a military background undergo a HAC Recruits' Course that gets them up to speed with basic soldiering skills. The Recruit's course lasts six months (Tuesday evenings, about one weekend a month and a ten-day final exercise).

The HAC Recruit's course tests candidates levels of fitness and comprises lessons in:

• survival techniques
• weapons drills
• basic communications

Those who pass the Recruit's course join the regiment and go on to a Patrol Selection Course which comprises:

• first aid
• advanced navigation
• close quarter battle skills
• foreign equipment recognition
• observation post construction, operation and routine
• long range communications

The above training is complemented by a series of tests:

• swimming tests
• navigation tests
• long distance marches over arduous terrain carrying heavy loads

These tests conclude with a 10 day final exercise which tests the recruit's proficiency in the skills acquired.

HAC Signalers go through a similar selection path as the Patrol Squadrons, but only doing a portion of the Patrol Selection Course. They then go on to a Basic Communications Course which comprises:

• familiarization with the HAC regiment's communications systems
• long-distance High Frequency radio communications - both theory and practice

A final 10 day exam, run in parallel with the Patrol Selection Course finals, tests the recruits acquired skills.

Dominique wrote:
FBI Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) - The HRT has operated overseas for years, doing everything from "renditions"to escorting FBI and DOJ officials. They provide security details to FBI personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan, and operated with US Military SOF doing site surveys, and interrogations during combat ops.

Any idea when you might get around to these guys?

Dustin Fireblade wrote:

Dominique wrote:
FBI Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) - The HRT has operated overseas for years, doing everything from "renditions"to escorting FBI and DOJ officials. They provide security details to FBI personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan, and operated with US Military SOF doing site surveys, and interrogations during combat ops.

Any idea when you might get around to these guys?

I've got the article I wrote for SWAT Digest, a few years back, floating around on my old hard drive. It was pretty big, and they had to split it up over three separate issues. When I post it, I'll add some info on some changes I'm aware of. But, be aware that when I sent the article to the CIRG for review, they asked me to take out some info they didn't want me to make public, so I'll see if there's anything they'd like me to leave out again.

If I can't sleep tonight, I'll see about posting info on another unit or two.