Get the toughest training for the ultimate adventure.

Special Forces (2:10)

Special Forces - Doors (:34)

Special Forces - Dive (1:02)

Special Forces

Training
The training to become a Special Forces Soldier is tough, long and intense. You’ll be physically and mentally challenged every step of the way and pushed to new limits as you develop the strength, creativity and skills to overcome almost any obstacle. As part of the select group who makes it into the Special Forces Qualification Course Special Forces Qualification Course:
The SFQC is an intense five-phase course, during which Soldiers become experts in Unconventional Warfare.
, you’ll train for at least 18 months, depending on your specialty. You’ll become proficient in at least one foreign language and learn advanced combat methods, unconventional warfare tactics and special reconnaissance techniques as well as counterterrorism tactics and the skills to organize and train foreign military and defense groups.

 

Civilian Related
The skills you acquire as a member of a Special Forces team will prepare you for a future civilian career in law enforcement. Special Forces medical Sergeants may want to use their training to continue into medicine, or work as an emergency medical technician (EMT). Your exposure to different languages and cultures may assist you with a career in foreign affairs or international relations, and the extensive leadership training you'll receive will enable you to move toward practically any civilian management position in the corporate world.
 

  • 18B Special Forces Weapons Sergeant

    The Special Forces Weapons Sergeant is an expert in all things weaponry. The Weapons Sergeant is responsible for properly maintaining and employing all types of U.S. and foreign weapons on the detachment. Secondary responsibilities may include: supervising the construction of hasty fortifications;  selecting weapons emplacements sites; assigning targets and areas of fire; and preparing combat orders.

  • 18C Special Forces Engineer Sergeant

    The Special Forces Engineer Sergeant is an expert in construction and in using demolitions. The Engineer Sergeant is trained in a broad range of specialties including fortification projects, construction, electric wiring, bridging and rigging. The Engineer is also responsible for employing demolitions in sabotage operations, and is an expert in U.S. and foreign land mines as well as conducting mine/countermine operations. The Engineer Sergeant is also responsible for teaching all of his duties to U.S. and foreign soldiers as well as conducting briefs and debriefs.

  • 18D Special Forces Medical Sergeant

    Special Forces Medical Sergeants are the finest first-response and trauma medical technicians in the world. Their primary responsibility is to provide expert trauma care to U.S. and foreign personnel. They also have working knowledge of dentistry, veterinary care, public sanitation, water treatment and optometry. Secondary responsibilities include maintaining medical equipment and supplies as well as teaching basic medical procedures to U.S. and foreign personnel.

  • 18E Special Forces Communications Sergeant

    Special Forces Communications Sergeants are experts in establishing communications, using everything from encrypted satellite communications systems to old-style high-frequency (HF) Morse key systems. Communications Sergeants are also trained to set up computer networks. Other responsibilities require the Communications Sergeants to train and advise indigenous and allied personnel in common communications responsibilities with both U.S. and foreign radio systems.

  • 18F Special Forces Intelligence Sergeant

    Special Forces Intelligence Sergeants are responsible for collecting and analyzing intelligence on the enemy. The Intelligence Sergeant’s role is highlighted during the planning and execution stage, as the information he gains is the basis for how the ODA (Operation Detachment Alpha or 12-man team) best accomplishes their mission.

     

  • 18Z Special Forces Team Sergeant

    Note: This is a senior level position.

    Special Forces Team Sergeants are the most experienced members on the ODA (Operation Detachment Alpha or 12-man team). The Special Forces Team Sergeant is responsible for supervising and instructing all members on the ODA during missions and during training. The team Sergeant is also required to oversee the training and preparation for Special Forces operations and supervising operations for higher headquarters, major commands and joint commands. The Special Forces Team Sergeant is the foundation of the ODA.

  • 18A Special Forces Detachment Commander

    Note: This is a senior level position.

    Special Forces Detachment Commanders Commands or serves on the staff of Special Forces units. The Special Forces Commander is responsible for the planning and execution of the five primary missions conducted by an ODA (Operation Detachment Alpha or 12-man team), which are: foreign internal defense (FID), direct action (DA), counterterrorism (CT), unconventional warfare (UW), and special reconnaissance (SR). Equally as important, the ODA Commander is responsible for strengthening the relationship between the detachment and the foreign officers, soldiers, and civilians they are working with.

 — or —