What is special warfare in the air force?

What is Special Warfare in the Air Force?

The United States Air Force (USAF) is a premier military force, known for its technological advancements, precision, and global reach. Within the USAF, there exists a specialized unit that operates under the umbrella of Air Force Special Warfare (AFSW). Air Force Special Warfare is a component of the US Air Force that conducts special operations and unconventional warfare. In this article, we will delve into the world of AFSW, exploring what special warfare is, its history, and the various roles and responsibilities of its personnel.

What is Special Warfare?

Special warfare is a type of military operation that involves unconventional warfare, counterterrorism, direct action, and foreign internal defense. It is a hybrid of traditional military operations and special operations, requiring Airmen to possess a unique set of skills, including language proficiency, cultural awareness, and tactical expertise. AFSW Airmen are trained to operate in hostile or denied environments, conducting missions that support national security objectives.

History of Air Force Special Warfare

The concept of special warfare in the Air Force dates back to the 1950s, when the USAF established the 1st Air Commando Group. This unit was designed to conduct unconventional warfare, counterinsurgency, and special operations. In the 1980s, the 24th Tactical Air Support Squadron was formed, specializing in special operations and unconventional warfare. In 2006, the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) was established, consolidating all Air Force special operations units under a single command.

Roles and Responsibilities of AFSW Airmen

AFSW Airmen are trained to perform a variety of roles, including:

• Operational Planning: AFSW Airmen develop and execute operational plans, coordinating with other military units and government agencies.
• Intelligence Gathering: AFSW Airmen conduct human intelligence (HUMINT) and signals intelligence (SIGINT) operations to gather critical information.
• Direct Action: AFSW Airmen conduct direct action missions, including raids, ambushes, and sabotage.
• Foreign Internal Defense: AFSW Airmen train and advise foreign military forces, supporting national security objectives.
• Counterterrorism: AFSW Airmen conduct counterterrorism operations, targeting terrorist organizations and their leaders.

Air Force Special Warfare Units

AFSW is comprised of several specialized units, including:

• 1st Special Operations Wing: Based at Hurlburt Field, Florida, this wing is responsible for conducting special operations and unconventional warfare.
• 24th Special Operations Wing: Based at Hurlburt Field, Florida, this wing is responsible for conducting special operations and unconventional warfare.
• 352nd Special Operations Wing: Based at RAF Mildenhall, UK, this wing is responsible for conducting special operations and unconventional warfare in Europe and Africa.
• Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC): Based at Hurlburt Field, Florida, AFSOC is the highest headquarters for Air Force special operations, providing command and control for all AFSW units.

Air Force Special Warfare Training

AFSW Airmen undergo rigorous training to prepare them for the unique challenges of special warfare. This training includes:

• Basic Military Training: All AFSW Airmen must complete basic military training, which includes physical fitness training, marksmanship training, and combat training.
• Special Warfare Training: AFSW Airmen receive specialized training in areas such as languages, cultures, and tactical operations.
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• Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) Training: AFSW Airmen learn survival skills, including wilderness survival, evasion techniques, and resistance training.
• Pararescue Training: AFSW Airmen receive training in parachuting, search and rescue, and medical evacuation.

Conclusion

Air Force Special Warfare is a critical component of the USAF, conducting special operations and unconventional warfare to support national security objectives. AFSW Airmen are trained to operate in hostile or denied environments, conducting missions that require a unique set of skills, including language proficiency, cultural awareness, and tactical expertise. With its rich history and diverse range of roles and responsibilities, AFSW is an essential part of the US Air Force’s special operations capabilities.

Table: Air Force Special Warfare Units

Bullets: Air Force Special Warfare Training

• Basic Military Training
• Special Warfare Training
• Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) Training
• Pararescue Training