We’re proud to officially announce the 2026 Team SOCOM athletes who will represent United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) at the this year’s Warrior Games !
These incredible warriors embody resilience, dedication, and the unbreakable spirit of our community. Through their commitment to recovery and excellence, they continue to inspire us all.
Join us in congratulating them as they continue to train hard for San Antonio! ?
Let’s Go Team SOCOM!!
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. —
Air Force Special Operations Command has begun hosting AI Bootcamps, a pioneering training course designed to arm servicemembers with the skills to ethically and effectively integrate artificial intelligence into their daily duties.
The course stems from the command’s commitment to leveraging emerging technologies to maintain a competitive advantage in an increasingly complex operating environment. The goal of the initiative is to empower Air Commandos to utilize AI tools, streamlining procedural processes and tasks to reclaim valuable time for mission-critical responsibilities.
“The AFSOC AI Bootcamp was created out of a forward-thinking effort to prepare our servicemembers for an AI-integrated environment,” said Dr. Christina Parker, AFSOC chief learning officer. “We accomplish this by identifying and addressing concerns of using AI; identifying AI appropriate tasks; highlighting “Human in the Loop” strategies and techniques; and providing highly practical, hands-on application training.”
As part of practical application practice, students are taught how to assign the AI system a role to play for accomplishing an identified task.
“AI can serve as a ‘brainstormer’ to move past the ‘blank page’ problem, a ‘translator’ to reformat data and adjust the tone of materials, a ‘red teamer’ to identify weaknesses in a plan, and even a ‘tutor’ to break down complex topics for upskilling,” said Parker.
The course was designed to create a bridge the knowledge gap on generative AI systems, creating a baseline understanding for users no matter their experience level.
“It’s rare to leave a one-day course feeling you’ve gained a truly foundational understanding of something so transformative,” said a course participant. This wasn’t just another training day; this felt mission critical.”
AFSOC’s prioritization of AI integration began in September 2025 with the establishment a standalone A9 directorate, with a mission focused on data, AI, analytics, and assessments.
“We were tasked with designing this training in November 2025,” said Parker. “When the Secretary of War’s ‘Harness Artificial Intelligence’ memorandum was released in December, we were already positioned to execute.”
Parker states AFSOC’s proactive stance in designing, developing, and delivering the AI training has led higher headquarters and other commands across the Joint Force to reach out to request her team’s materials for review and use.
Through this forward-leaning approach, AFSOC is not just initiating the charge for mass AI adoption but is actively building the framework to teach servicemembers how to rapidly integrate these capabilities. This initiative positions them at the forefront of shaping how the Joint Force will team up with artificial intelligence.
“The primary goal is for every servicemember to have the mindset that AI is not a replacement, but a powerful teammate,” said Parker.
By Capt Brandon DeBlanc
Air Force Special Operations Command
Scotland played a pivotal role as a training ground for some of the most Elite Allied forces, including the U.S. Army Rangers, the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), and the Jedburgh teams.
The rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, combined with the expertise of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) & Commandos provided an unparalleled environment for training in guerrilla warfare, sabotage, and special operations. The collaboration between British Commandos, SOE operatives, and their American counterparts helped forge the foundations of modern day Special Forces.
Rangers
The formation of the 1st Ranger Battalion marked a significant milestone in the development of Elite U.S. Military forces during WW2. The battalion’s initial members were primarily drawn from two divisions recently sent to Ireland from the United States: the 34th Infantry Division and the 1st Armoured Division. In May 1942, Company A of the 1st Ranger Battalion was established, comprising all volunteer soldiers under the leadership of Captain William Darby.
B Company, 1st Ranger Battalion on a training road march near Achnacarry, Scotland, July 1942.
After its formation, Company A relocated to Scotland, where the men were trained by British Commandos at the rigorous Commando Basic Training Centre (CBTC) near Achnacarry Castle. Training was supplemented by the SOE, whose Elite Raiders had extensive experience in covert operations and behind-enemy-lines missions.
This collaboration exposed the Rangers to advanced techniques in sabotage, reconnaissance, and amphibious assaults. Some Rangers participated in their first combat action during the Dieppe Raid in August 1942, becoming some of the first U.S. troops to fight in Europe during the war.
Lt. Derek Burr Commando Depot stands behind four men of a Ranger unit instructing in the use of a M.1. Rifle. Feb 1943.
Over time, the 1st Ranger Battalion expanded into a force of 467 men. It played a key role in the North African campaign, including Operation Torch, serving alongside Nos. 1 and 6 British Army Commandos. This success led to the formation of additional Ranger battalions, which went on to participate in operations across all major theatres of the war.
Following the successes of the 1st Ranger Battalion in North Africa, Captain William Darby was tasked with forming two additional battalions: the 3rd and 4th Ranger Battalions, activated and trained at Nemours, Algeria, in April 1943. The 1st Battalion was restructured with its original A and B Companies, while the 3rd and 4th Battalions were formed around C/D and E/F Companies, respectively. Darby, supported by experienced officers and non-commissioned officers, incorporated hundreds of combat-tested soldiers from Seventh Army units into the new battalions.
Brigadier General Lucian Truscott Jr. (Centre with riding boots) and Major William O. Darby (pointing) inspect C Company, 1st Ranger Battalion on 2 September 1942 at Dundee, Scotland.
The 3 Battalions underwent an intensive three-week training regimen to prepare for Operation HUSKY, the Allied invasion of Sicily. In summary, the 1st Ranger Battalion was the pioneering unit and the precursor to later Ranger units that followed in the post-war era, such as the establishment of the modern day 75th Ranger Regiment.
OSS Training in Scotland
The training of Office of Strategic Services (OSS) operatives in Scotland had its foundation in the expertise and methodologies developed by the British Special Operations Executive (SOE). The OSS, created in 1942 as America’s first centralised intelligence and Special Operations Agency, partnered with the SOE to leverage their experience in unconventional warfare. Early OSS operatives often trained alongside SOE personnel, adopting and refining techniques that had already proven effective in sabotage, espionage, and guerrilla warfare.
The Office of Strategic Services (OSS) was created under the leadership of Major General William J. “Wild Bill” Donovan. Known as the “father of American intelligence.
Before the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) was officially formed in June 1941, some American personnel, including future OSS operatives, received informal training alongside the British Special Operations Executive (SOE) in Scotland starting in 1940.
These early training efforts focused on sabotage, guerrilla warfare, and espionage. After the OSS was established, it began sending operatives to Scotland for more structured training in 1942, building on the collaboration with the SOE.
Additionally, Camp X in Ontario, Canada, was set up in December 1941 to provide formal espionage and sabotage training, with operatives often training there before being sent to Scotland for further specialised instruction.
OSS on Operation Rype Norway May 1945.
The OSS adopted many of the SOE’s training techniques and operational strategies, particularly in the use of small, autonomous teams for high-risk missions. The collaboration was instrumental in preparing operatives to work effectively behind enemy lines.
In occupied Europe, OSS agents often partnered with SOE operatives and local resistance movements, engaging in activities such as: Sabotaging railways, bridges, and supply depots to hinder enemy logistics. Organising and arming guerrilla forces to launch coordinated attacks. Gathering and transmitting vital intelligence on enemy positions and movements.
Arisaig House Special Training School, designated STS21.
The Scottish Highlands provided an ideal setting for this training, as the rugged terrain and unpredictable weather mirrored the challenges operatives would face in the field. The shared training experiences between the OSS and SOE not only forged strong Allied partnerships but also laid the foundation for the OSS’s evolution into a highly effective covert operations force.
The OSS and SOE worked together for about 2 years, from 1940 when informal training began, through the OSS’s formation in 1941, and continuing through 1942–1943 as part of more formalised training.
The early collaboration with the SOE proved to be a defining element of the OSS’s success. The techniques, tactics, and ethos learned during their Scottish training shaped the OSS into a formidable wartime organisation and provided the foundation for the creation of modern American Special Operations Forces and intelligence agencies. This partnership underscored the enduring importance of joint training and innovation in special warfare.
Jedburgh Teams
Project Jedburgh was a ground-breaking Allied initiative involving the OSS Special Operations (SO) branch, the British Special Operations Executive (SOE), and the French Bureau Central de Renseignements et d’Action (BCRA). Its goal was to support and coordinate with resistance movements in occupied territories.
Aug 6th 1944, England, 4 Jedburgh’s from team ‘IVOR’ shortly before heading to France.
A total of 83 American, 90 British, 103 French, 5 Belgian, and 5 Dutch operatives were meticulously trained in paramilitary techniques for Jedburgh missions. Selected men were sent for two weeks of commando training in Scotland, followed by further specific training at Milton Hall, near Peterborough. Teams were designed to:
Supplement and support existing SO/SOE resistance networks (known as “circuits”). Organise, arm, and train local resistance forces. Arrange supply drops and procure intelligence. Conduct sabotage operations and liaise between resistance groups and Allied forces.
Members of OSS Operational Group ADRIAN prepare to jump into occupied France in September 1944.
Ninety-three Jedburgh teams parachuted into France, and eight were deployed to The Netherlands. A typical team consisted of three members: one French, one British, and one American operative. Each team had at least one officer and a radio operator, though team sizes varied from two to four personnel.
These teams played a critical role in disrupting German operations, supporting the Allied advance following the D-Day landings, and bolstering resistance efforts across occupied Europe.
Legacy and Modern Influence
The experience and innovations developed by the Rangers, OSS, and Jedburgh teams during WW2 provided the foundation for the creation of modern U.S. Special Forces. The Elite training, unconventional warfare techniques, and emphasis on small-unit operations directly influenced the formation of units like the U.S. Army Special Forces (Green Berets), the Navy SEALs, and other modern day Special Forces Units.
The collaboration with the SOE the Commandos and the lessons learned from Scotland’s rugged training grounds remain central to modern Special Operations doctrine. These pioneering groups not only helped secure victory in WW2 but also shaped the future of military and intelligence operations.
Join us in Scotland this March and October on our Elite Raiders of WW2 Experience, as we learn about their training, visit historical sites and follow in the footsteps of legends.
This article was shared by our friends at SOE Expeditions.
HOHENFELS, Germany – Green Berets with 2nd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), U.S. Special Operations Command Europe, put their skills to the test with a new and innovative training scenario, Exercise Deep Strike, at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center here, February 15-23, 2026.
This exercise simulated a complex real-world mission that challenged small special forces teams to infiltrate enemy territory, avoid drone detection, use drones to strike targets or resupply units, execute advanced tactics and complete stressful operations under winter conditions.
It served as a crucial testing ground for modernizing the force, validating the effectiveness of cutting-edge technologies like advanced unmanned systems to ensure our forces maintain an operational advantage in complex, multi-domain environments. This feedback loop ensures that emerging technologies are rapidly refined and fielded, directly translating innovation into combat capabilities.
“This exercise is designed to prepare our forces for the realities of modern warfare,” a planner with the 10th SFG (A) said. “It closely replicates real-world battlefield conditions, including the complex electronic warfare environment. It’s about pushing our teams to the limit and testing their ability to adapt to changing circumstances.”
In October 2025, SOCEUR tasked the Hohenfels Wolverine training battalion, a group of former Green Berets, with planning Deep Strike. The scenario involved a team of eight or more Green Berets infiltrating a 150-kilometer stretch of flat terrain in winter weather. It tested their physical and mental endurance, and their ability to remain focused on the mission. Their objective was to move undetected through the terrain, navigate past conventional forces and launch a strike drone to neutralize a simulated high-value target.
The operation required the team to rely only on mission-specific gear, excluding weapons. Their movement was restricted to nighttime hours to maximize stealth. They had to navigate through harsh winter conditions while avoiding detection, not just from enemy forces but also from civilian farmers, hikers, hunters and local law enforcement.
“This is no simple walk in the woods,” the team sergeant said. “In addition to avoiding conventional forces, our operators must stay off the radar of drones and keep a low profile around civilians who could unknowingly jeopardize the mission.”
The climax of the exercise occurred when a Special Forces team reached their destination after the grueling 150-kilometer movement. They then launched an unmanned aerial system, which carried live munitions to strike and destroy a designated enemy target. Once the team completed the mission, they were extracted by helicopters.
A team from SOCEUR’s Theater Edge Innovation Lab,alongside drone designers,were involved in the exercise as well, preparing drones for flights and assisting Green Berets with their operation. Aside from strike missions and avoiding their detection, they used drones to deliver supplies to Green Berets in the field.
Looking ahead, Deep Strike is expected to expand in scope with future iterations incorporating NATO Special Operations Forces. This will enhance coordination and interoperability among NATO forces, ensuring that they remain prepared to respond to dynamic security challenges across Europe and beyond.
“Deep Strike is not just about training our own forces,” the planner said. “It’s also about creating opportunities for greater collaboration with our allies, ensuring that we’re all ready to tackle whatever challenges may lie ahead.”
This exercise is a critical step in building a permanent training lane for U.S. and NATO forces to practice deep strike missions together, enhancing the alliance’s collective combat power and unified response to threats. This joint training will sharpen the alliance’s ability to seamlessly integrate multi-national assets, from intelligence to strike, ensuring that the right weapon is delivered to the right target at a decisive moment.
Story by SGT Glenn Brennan
U.S. Special Operations Command Europe
Belgium selects SkyCourier fleet to boost special operations airlift for troop transport, logistics, casevac and crisis response
A new ally in the air: An artist’s rendering shows a Cessna SkyCourier configured for military operations, including a special operations paint scheme and mission equipment. The aircraft was selected by Belgium Special Operations Forces.
WICHITA, Kan. (Apr. 7, 2026) – Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today announced Belgium has selected the Cessna SkyCourier as its newest special mission aircraft, awarding an order for five multirole aircraft to support the nation’s Special Operations Forces. The selection launches the SkyCourier into the global defense market for the first time and strengthens Belgium’s airlift capability through a rugged, flexible platform built for demanding missions.
Belgium’s SkyCourier fleet will enable rapid movement of personnel and equipment while supporting logistics, medical evacuation and crisis response operations. Deliveries to the prime contractor Sabena Engineering are expected throughout 2027, followed by in?country military modifications prior to the final aircraft transfer to the Belgian Special Operations Forces.
“This first military selection signals strong armed service interest in the Cessna SkyCourier and underscores its readiness for high?consequence missions,” said Travis Tyler, president and CEO, Textron Aviation Defense. “The SkyCourier’s combination of rugged performance, low operating cost and the ability to operate from short and unimproved runways makes it a powerful solution for customers who need dependable lift in unpredictable environments.”
The SkyCourier’s debut into the global defense market builds on its momentum of expansion across new global regions. Designed for reliability and mission adaptability, the twin?engine, high?wing turboprop offers flexible cabin configurations, significant payload capacity and proven performance in austere settings.
Belgium’s decision reflects a rising government demand for affordable, multirole aircraft that can support rapidly evolving mission sets. The selection also expands the capabilities of local industry through Sabena’s modification design work in Belgium, reinforcing defense relationships throughout the region.
“Working closely with Textron Aviation, Sabena Engineering will perform all mission?specific integration and certification in Belgium, ensuring the SkyCourier delivers the flexible, responsive airlift capability our Special Operations Forces require while strengthening national industrial expertise and sovereignty,” added Stephane Burton, CEO, Sabena Engineering.
In an era defined by rapid technological advancement and evolving warfare, special operations stands at the forefront of transformation. As the Army adapts to the pressing demands of a battlefield plagued with changing threats, 3rd Special Forces Group is spearheading a significant transformation.
In an invigorated effort to enable multidomain operations, 3rd Special Forces Group is transforming its legacy military intelligence company into a robust multidomain operations company. The move not only enhances the capabilities of special operations but also aligns with the broader initiative to foster interdependence, interoperability and integration across the force.
The transition to a multidomain company is just a small part of a comprehensive transformation strategy aligned with the Army’s modernization efforts. The new structure consolidates the group’s intelligence and electronic warfare capabilities under a single company, highlighting the significance of this shift in operational capabilities.
As battalions across the formation use their forces to meet strategic-level objectives, the newly structured company is taking on an increased responsibility for the training and readiness of signals intelligence and electronic warfare soldiers within the formation.
“One of the key initiatives that we have done is assumed responsibility of the advanced collection training team, which is helping to facilitate a streamlined training glidepath for the group’s [signals intelligence] and [electronic warfare] assets,” said Army Capt. Andrew Reynolds, multidomain operations company commander.
As the company adjusts to its new role in the group, it is returning to foundational intelligence practices, drawing on insights from 1980s doctrine.
“We are analyzing current [geopolitical] events, like the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the large-scale military drills in China, and applying decades-old doctrine to better understand how we can effectively counter near-peer threats during large-scale combat operations,” Reynolds explained as he emphasized the impacts of preparing soldiers for the complexities of modern warfare.
Despite ongoing advancements and an overall transformation of warfighting systems, the company is still developing new solutions to mitigate the challenges of integrating intelligence capabilities with the conventional force and joint partners.
“We are working to identify solutions to efficiently and effectively support the targeting process with real-time data,” Reynolds said. “The networks and systems we use do not always ‘talk’ to one another, leading our soldiers to use slow and outdated techniques to feed targeting.”
To enhance collaboration and integration practices across the force, Reynolds and his company are engaging with Army corps-level commands to execute comprehensive training that tests the company’s systems and capabilities. In line with Army transformation efforts, the formation is exploring the application of future artificial intelligence to feed joint systems, enhancing data analysis and streamlining the targeting process across the joint force.
Meeting the Army’s growing demands requires innovation, adaptability and realistic training. To meet these demands, the company is executing certification, validation and verification training events to ensure the formation’s readiness for deployment in support of large-scale combat and stability operations.
At higher command levels, the company is curating training and an operational support model that meets the unique demands of unconventional warfare in a contemporary warfare environment.
While the special operations enterprise is transforming at an unprecedented rate to meet the growing demands of warfare, no transformation is equal to it. The 3rd Special Forces Group’s tailored approach not only meets the unit’s unique needs but also reinforces the holistic objectives of multidomain operations.
Through this transformation, the multidomain operations company is positioning itself to lead the way in innovative intelligence solutions, ensuring the joint force is prepared to face future challenges.
By Army MAJ Justin Zwick, 3rd Special Forces Group
SAN DIEGO, CA, March 31, 2026 – Cubic Digital Intelligence (CDI), a leading provider of defense software for geospatial intelligence and full-motion video dissemination, today announced that its TAKTICS solution has achieved “Awardable” status through the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office’s (CDAO) Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace.
“Achieving Awardable status on Tradewinds validates both the operational impact of TAKTICS and the growing need for rapid, reliable GEOINT dissemination at the tactical edge,” said Samuel Stollar, VP & General Manager of Cubic Digital Intelligence. “This pathway allows Government customers to quickly identify, evaluate and acquire a solution already proven across special operations and conventional forces.”
The Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace is the Department of War’s digital repository of post-competition, readily awardable pitch videos designed to accelerate procurement of AI, data and analytics capabilities across the enterprise.
TAKTICS is CDI’s enterprise GEOINT dissemination platform built specifically for the TAK ecosystem. It automates delivery of mission-critical imagery, terrain and vector data from secure repositories directly to TAK devices, enabling operators to access current geospatial intelligence even in disconnected, denied, degraded, intermittent and low-bandwidth (DDIL) environments.
TAKTICS eliminates manual data preparation, reduces dependency on reach-back networks and synchronizes GEOINT from enterprise to tactical edge in seconds.
TAKTICS is relied upon operationally by Warfighters across the DoW, Special Operations Forces, Marine Raiders, Army Special Forces Groups, Ranger units, AFSOC Special Tactics Squadrons and Naval Special Warfare teams for mission planning, imagery exploitation and ATAK data preparation in austere and denied environments worldwide.
Cubic Digital Intelligence’s video, TAKTICS | Enterprise GEOINT Dissemination for the Tactical Edge, is accessible to Government users within the Tradewinds Marketplace and demonstrates how the solution bridges enterprise GEOINT systems to tactical users through automated workflows and AutoSync Maps technology.
To learn more about Cubic products and services, visit www.cubic.com.
In a demanding test of precision, endurance and teamwork, 17 elite sniper teams participated in the U.S. Army Special Operations Command International Sniper Competition at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, March 15-19.
The U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School hosted the competition, now in its 17th year. Special Forces sniper course instructors and leadership designed the various challenges and served as officials and scorekeepers.
“This competition represents the pinnacle of the sniper craft,” said Army Col. Simon Powelson, commander of the 2nd Special Warfare Training Group. “We have brought together highly trained teams from across the joint force and partner nations. These competitors are not just here by chance; they are the product of intense and specialized training within their respective units.”
The five-day event included special operations forces representing multiple allied nations with participants drawn from the ranks of Army Special Forces, Army Rangers, Naval Special Warfare Command, Marine Forces Special Operations Command and Coast Guard units.
Designed to strengthen interoperability and foster esprit de corps among partner forces, the competition featured a series of complex engagements conducted both during the day and under the cover of darkness that pushed competitors to their physical and mental limits.
Throughout the week, sniper teams of two highly trained operators were evaluated across multiple ranges at Fort Bragg. Competitors demonstrated proficiency with sniper rifles, carbines and pistols, engaging at distances of up to 1,200 meters while adapting to constantly changing scenarios.
The opening day set the tone for the grueling challenge ahead. Persistent thunderstorms brought intermittent rain and strong winds, forcing teams to contend with reduced visibility, slick terrain and unpredictable shooting conditions, adding a layer of realism for competitors.
“The weather played a significant role,” said Timothy Gozelski, the sniper course manager. “Our goal with the wind and rain was to make sure the visibility was the same for all the teams.”
In the following days, the weather cleared, but conditions remained poor. Temperatures dropped to 35 degrees, and variable winds swept across the ranges, complicating long-distance shots.
Competitors had to calculate wind speed and direction on the fly while maintaining communication and coordination with their teammates.
“Good, clear, concise communication is a must,” said Richard Cuza, a sniper course instructor. “It’s beyond important; it’s crucial.”
Each stage of the competition emphasized not only marksmanship but also teamwork.
Sniper pairs had to locate, range and engage multiple targets in rapid succession, often while maneuvering between firing positions. Communication, trust and synchronization proved just as critical as shooting accuracy.
“Being in sync with your teammate is equal in importance to communication,” Gozelski said. “To be successful, the two have to talk and be on the same page in everything they do.”
Organizers emphasized the competition was more than a test of skill. It brought together international partners and joint force teams in a high-stress training environment. As a result, the event allowed competitors to build relationships, and it improved the joint forces’ ability to operate seamlessly in real-world missions.
“It’s awesome to have international teams competing,” Gozelski said. “It helps with interoperability and being able to look at each other’s equipment and techniques. It’s not just about competing; it’s about learning some things from our allies and how they operate. All the foreign teams are thrilled to be here. This competition helps us in expanding operational expertise.”
Cuza added that “it was great to have allies and teams from our sister services here. It will help us in working together and that’s important.”
After five days of intense competition, the Army Special Operations Command team emerged as the overall winner, demonstrating consistent performance across all events and conditions. The Army’s 3rd Special Forces Group team finished second.
As the competition concluded, participants departed not only with sharpened skills but with stronger bonds between allied forces and sister services.
“Most importantly, this competition is a powerful vehicle for building esprit de corps among an elite group of warriors who may one day serve alongside each other,” Powelson said.
By Ken Kassens, U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School
