The 24th Special Tactics Squadron: Elite Warriors of the US Air Force
The 24th Special Tactics Squadron (24 STS) is a unit of the United States Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) that provides special operations forces with tactical air control and combat weather capabilities. As one of the most elite units in the US military, the 24 STS has a rich history of conducting high-risk missions in support of special operations forces. In this article, we will explore five ways in which the 24 STS operates and the skills required to be part of this elite team.
1. Tactical Air Control
The primary mission of the 24 STS is to provide tactical air control to special operations forces. This involves directing combat aircraft to engage enemy targets, as well as providing close air support to ground troops. To accomplish this mission, 24 STS operators must possess a deep understanding of airpower and the capabilities of various combat aircraft. They must also be able to communicate effectively with pilots and ground commanders to ensure that air support is delivered in a timely and effective manner.
Tactical Air Control Skills:
- Air-to-ground communication: 24 STS operators must be able to communicate clearly and concisely with pilots and ground commanders to direct air support.
- Airpower expertise: They must possess a deep understanding of the capabilities and limitations of various combat aircraft.
- Situational awareness: Operators must have a keen understanding of the battlefield and the location of friendly and enemy forces.
📝 Note: 24 STS operators must be able to think critically and make quick decisions in high-pressure situations.
2. Combat Weather Operations
In addition to providing tactical air control, the 24 STS also conducts combat weather operations to support special operations forces. This involves gathering and analyzing weather data to predict weather patterns and provide critical information to commanders. To accomplish this mission, 24 STS operators must possess a strong understanding of meteorology and the impact of weather on military operations.
Combat Weather Skills:
- Meteorological expertise: 24 STS operators must possess a deep understanding of weather patterns and the ability to analyze weather data.
- Forecasting: They must be able to predict weather patterns and provide critical information to commanders.
- Communication: Operators must be able to communicate effectively with commanders and other stakeholders to ensure that weather information is disseminated in a timely manner.
📝 Note: 24 STS operators must be able to analyze complex weather data and provide accurate forecasts to support military operations.
3. Advanced Skills Training
To prepare for their high-risk missions, 24 STS operators undergo advanced skills training in areas such as parachuting, combat diving, and survival, evasion, resistance, and escape (SERE) techniques. This training enables them to operate in a variety of environments and to survive in hostile territory if necessary.
Advanced Skills:
- Parachuting: 24 STS operators must be able to parachute into hostile territory to conduct missions.
- Combat diving: They must be able to conduct combat diving operations to infiltrate or exfiltrate personnel or equipment.
- SERE: Operators must be able to survive in hostile territory and resist interrogation if captured.
📝 Note: 24 STS operators must be able to think on their feet and adapt to changing situations.
4. Joint Operations
The 24 STS often conducts joint operations with other special operations forces, such as the US Army Special Forces and the US Navy SEALs. To accomplish this mission, 24 STS operators must be able to communicate effectively with other units and to coordinate efforts to achieve a common goal.
Joint Operations Skills:
- Interoperability: 24 STS operators must be able to communicate effectively with other units and to coordinate efforts.
- Collaboration: They must be able to work collaboratively with other units to achieve a common goal.
- Flexibility: Operators must be able to adapt to changing situations and to adjust plans accordingly.
📝 Note: 24 STS operators must be able to think critically and make quick decisions in high-pressure situations.
5. Continuous Training
To maintain their high level of proficiency, 24 STS operators undergo continuous training in a variety of areas, including tactical air control, combat weather operations, and advanced skills training. This training enables them to stay up-to-date with the latest tactics and techniques and to adapt to changing situations.
Continuous Training Skills:
- Proficiency: 24 STS operators must maintain a high level of proficiency in a variety of areas.
- Adaptability: They must be able to adapt to changing situations and to adjust plans accordingly.
- Innovation: Operators must be able to think creatively and to develop new solutions to complex problems.
📝 Note: 24 STS operators must be able to think critically and make quick decisions in high-pressure situations.
The 24th Special Tactics Squadron is a highly elite unit that conducts high-risk missions in support of special operations forces. To be part of this team, operators must possess a unique combination of skills, including tactical air control, combat weather operations, advanced skills training, joint operations, and continuous training. By maintaining a high level of proficiency and adaptability, the 24 STS is able to accomplish its mission and support the success of special operations forces.
What is the primary mission of the 24th Special Tactics Squadron?
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The primary mission of the 24th Special Tactics Squadron is to provide tactical air control to special operations forces.
What skills are required to be a 24 STS operator?
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24 STS operators must possess a unique combination of skills, including tactical air control, combat weather operations, advanced skills training, joint operations, and continuous training.
What is combat weather operations?
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Combat weather operations involve gathering and analyzing weather data to predict weather patterns and provide critical information to commanders.
Related Terms:
- Naval Special Warfare Development Group
- Regimental Reconnaissance Company
- 24th special tactics squadron size
- 17th special tactics squadron
- 22nd special tactics squadron
- 724th special tactics group
