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Green Berets Partner with Spanish Special Operations Forces for Training

Wednesday, November 1st, 2023

ALICANTE, Spain — Green Berets with the U.S. Army’s 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) concluded a nearly two-month joint combined exchange training — known as JCET — with members of the Spanish Army’s Grupo Especial de Operaciones near Alicante.

The U.S. and Spanish special operations forces practiced a wide variety of skills during this exercise, including training in long-range marksmanship, crew-served weapons familiarization, mission planning, close-quarter battle, breaching operations, military operations in urban terrain, rappelling and other critical combat and unconventional warfare skills.

U.S. Special Forces conduct JCETs with foreign militaries and partner agencies in their home countries. “JCETs facilitate shared understanding and awareness of capabilities and readiness,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Bowman, U.S. Special Operations Command Europe’s special operations liaison officer to Spain. “More importantly, they allow for both country’s units to build bonds and relationships, which are invaluable, particularly in times of crisis.”

Conducting JCETs with traditional U.S. allies like Spain is important to U.S. Special Operations Forces. “Spain is a very capable NATO ally with diverse, yet shared interests around the globe. It is critical that both countries collaborate wherever possible, given the high probability that we’ll be asked to work together in a future scenario,” Bowman said.

This JCET built upon past training and exercises for the Green Berets of 10th SFG (A). “This two-month JCET was extremely successful – not only did we increase our own tactical capabilities, but we also improved our interoperability and integration with our Spanish Army SOF peers,” said a U.S. Army special forces detachment commander directly involved in the training. “My Spanish counterpart and I integrated our teams to the maximum extent possible… this afforded both detachments the opportunity to develop our mission planning skills, mobility capabilities, and combined special reconnaissance and direct action tactics, techniques, and procedures.”

Both the Green Berets and the GOE gained valuable experience and increased their interoperability according to the detachment commander. JCETs continue to provide unique training opportunities for both U.S. forces and their multinational counterparts.

By CPT Jonathan Leigh

Photos by SSG Jacob Dunlap

Posted in Army, Guest Post, SOF, Training | Comments Off on Green Berets Partner with Spanish Special Operations Forces for Training

CTOMS Academy – Emergency Bleeding Control Training

Wednesday, October 25th, 2023

CTOMS Academy announces the release of its Emergency Bleeding Control training package. This online training includes both the standard and advanced Emergency Bleeding Control courses, giving students in-depth instruction on circulation anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology, and the principles of massive hemorrhage management including direct and indirect pressure, wound packing, bandaging, and the use of various types of tourniquets.

Like all CTOMS Academy courses the training is presented to students with an engaging mix of live video, motion graphics, and 3D animations to facilitate Students understanding of the topics. The Emergency Bleeding Control package includes demonstration video from labs using pathophysiological training models.

CTOMS Academy provides online training suitable to both medical professionals and non-medics operating in tactical and non-tactical environments. Clients include military, law enforcement, and emergency medical service groups. Many civilians, looking for training beyond standard First Aid, also find tremendous value in these courses.

Once enrolled, students can access their course material 24/7 from anywhere in the world, provided they have internet. Learning is self-paced, and the course will remain active for 3 years.

For more information on the Emergency Bleeding Control training package, and other Tactical Trauma Care training, visit CTOMS Academy.

For volume, government, or agency pricing please contact training@ctomsinc.com Use code SSD25 for 25% discount on all online training.

Posted in Advertiser, Medical, Training | 1 Comment »

AFSOC Embraces Extended Reality (XR) to Enhance Readiness

Thursday, October 12th, 2023

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. —

Extended Reality (XR) is revolutionizing the way Air Force Special Operations Command is approaching training and readiness. XR is an umbrella term that encompasses Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) to create a spectrum of experiences that range from fully virtual environments to overlays of digital content onto the real world. These technologies manipulate our perception of reality, hence the term “extended.” The manipulation of reality is at the core of XR, and it’s transforming the training landscape of AFSOC.

The XR Training Program’s mission is to provide Air Commandos the ability to conduct repetitive readiness training anyplace at any time through secure, autonomous learning distribution and reporting across all command disciplines. The vision is equally ambitious: to be a training program that employs virtual, mixed, and augmented training methodologies, producing warfighters with greater skillset competencies and proficiency in a more realistic environment, at a reduced cost, and on a shortened timeline.

In the beginning of FY23, AFSOC established an XR cross-functional team dedicated to creating an XR Training Framework for the entire command.

“Our first step as a command was to admit we had fallen behind in the evolution of training technology,” said Capt. Kyle Schoonover, Chief of AFSOC XR Training Program. “In true AFSOC fashion, in just a few months we went from this realization to producing a MAJCOM-wide framework capable of incorporating all existing XR technologies as well as charting a path forward for future development in the years to come.”

This framework operates on a crawl, walk, run strategy, composed of four distinct lines of effort (LOEs):

LOE 1: Virtual Hangar

The foundational effort for XR in AFSOC focuses on initial qualification academic training for all aircrew support and mission support personnel, including maintenance and Mission Sustainment Teams. A prime example of this is the “Virtual Hangar” initiative by AFSOC A4. This innovative program leverages VR to enhance AC-130J, MC-130J, CV-22 and munitions maintenance workforce training. The “Virtual Hangar” offers comprehensive Instructor Tools and custom-built Learning Modules, ranging from checklist execution to 3D-modeled schematic overlays.

LOE 2: NexGen Instructor

AFSOC plans to incorporate VR into all Flying Training Units (FTUs) responsible for training AFSOC aircrew. Training modules will cover the academic phases of the FTU syllabi such as academics on aircraft systems and mission equipment. Collaborative partnerships with other Major Commands (MAJCOMs) will be pursued when appropriate, and pathfinding will be the norm when required.

LOE 3: Fusion & Integration

The integration of XR into operational units is a pivotal aspect of AFSOC’s strategy, with a particular emphasis on mission events. These events can range from emulated flight of AFSOC aircraft, to special tactics, to our medical community across the entire continuum of patient care.

LOE 4: The Future Fight

The pinnacle of AFSOC’s XR Training Framework envisions the utilization of Augmented Reality (AR) for aircrew and special tactics teams. Imagine a CV-22 pilot flying over Melrose Air Force Range in New Mexico while their visor displays real-world terrain from distant locations like the Indo-Pacific region. Meanwhile, the pilot’s visor reveals a digital wingman controlled by a ground-based XR device. The goal is to replicate any battlespace via XR technology back at the home station.

“AFSOC’s XR framework provides every unit in the command with a readily digestible and easily repeatable strategy to modernize their training through next-generation methodologies of instruction,” said Schoonover.

The AFSOC XR Training Framework’s implementation is ongoing. While teams across AFSOC continue to work through LOE 1 by immersing in virtual reality and “Virtual Hangars”, LOE 2 is on the horizon with small group XR testing sessions with the AC-130J FTU planned for Summer 2024 and the C-146 FTU planned for Fall 2024. As investment into the training program framework continues, the line of efforts will gain momentum.

“AFSOC is heavily invested in enhancing readiness and training through initiatives like XR,” said Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, AFSOC commander. “The use of XR in training allows Air Commandos to experience highly realistic simulations of complex scenarios, missions, and environments they may encounter in real-world operations. This practice is paramount as we prepare for current and future operating environments. I’m excited to see where this program goes and we will be ready to build upon each line of effort as resources become available.”

With a comprehensive XR Training Framework in place, AFSOC is poised to transform its training methodologies, ensuring that Air Commandos are better prepared and equipped for strategic competition.

By Capt Amy Rasmussen

Air Force Special Operations Command Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, SOF, Training | 1 Comment »

UTM Halts Sales of Training Ammunition to Civilians Due to ATF Ruling

Wednesday, October 4th, 2023

We received this announcement from UTM earlier today.

Posted in Ammo, Press Release, Training | 12 Comments »

US Facilitates Philippine Air Force AOC, ISR Training

Friday, September 29th, 2023

VILLAMOR AIR BASE, Philippines — At the request of the government of the Philippines, the 505th Training Squadron located at Hurlburt Field, Florida, sent a team of U.S. Air Force Air Operations Center Formal Training Unit instructors to Villamor Air Base, Philippines, from Aug. 10-19. The instructors trained twenty-eight members of the Philippine Air Force’s 300th Air Intelligence and Security Wing and 5th Fighter Wing. The bilateral training focused on joint planning processes; intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance fundamentals; and best practices for ISR support to operations.

The 705th Training Squadron and the 505th Combat Training Squadron, located at Hurlburt Field, Florida, and Pacific Air Forces Intelligence Operations Division assisted the 505th Training Squadron.

“We couldn’t have done this mission without the support of PACAF/A2 and without the support of our sister squadrons,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Jason Gossett, 505th TRS commander. “Our intelligence professionals are always in high demand, and when we saw how much intel training the PAF was requesting, we reached out to our partners to get the right blend of expertise.”

In a brief graduation ceremony, PAF students expressed their gratitude for the unique and focused training.

In the closing remarks, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. David Jones, 505th TRS director of operations and mobile training team lead, said, “The United States and the Philippines became formal allies with the signing of the National Defense Treaty of 1951, and with the changing geopolitical environment, we are as committed as ever to our allies and partners in the Pacific. Many of us have strong personal and professional ties to the Philippines, and we were honored to come out and support this mission.”

“This training has offered exceptional chances to engage and build connections with fellow instructors and intelligence professionals who share our interests,” said Philippine Air Force Brigadier General Torres, 300th AISW commander “In our swiftly evolving world, adaptability is paramount. Training fosters our capacity to remain versatile and receptive to fresh concepts, technologies, and methodologies.

“Through the enriching five-days of training, we’ve established a robust network that fosters collaborations and invaluable partnerships, benefiting both the 300th Air Intelligence and Security Wing and the Philippine Air Force.”

The 505th TRS is responsible for preparing graduates to operate the AOC Weapon System, graduating more than 1,600 joint and coalition personnel annually. The squadron teaches 13 initial qualification courses (including an Integrated Air and Missile Defense Course), an AOC Fundamentals Course, a Joint Air Operations C2 Course, and an Academic Instructor Course. Graduates from the 505th TRS serve in all combatant commands.

505th Training Squadron located at Hurlburt Field, Florida, sent a team of U.S. Air Force Air Operations Center Formal Training Unit instructors to Villamor Air Base, Philippines, from Aug. 10-19, 2023. The instructors trained twenty-eight members of the Philippine Air Force’s 300th Air Intelligence and Security Wing and 5th Fighter Wing. The bilateral training focused on joint planning processes; intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance fundamentals; and best practices for ISR support to operations.

Story by Deb Henley

505th Command and Control Wing

Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, International, Training | Comments Off on US Facilitates Philippine Air Force AOC, ISR Training

Spectre Operations Tabletop Gaming

Wednesday, September 27th, 2023

Spectre Operations is a tabletop wargame set in the ‘Ultra Modern’ era – kind of like Warhammer or Dungeons and Dragons.

We are about to release our 3rd Edition of the rules, now with even more depth and detail than ever before!

Spectre Operations provides the comprehensive rules for wargames set in the modern era on the tabletop. These rules will allow you to play a myriad of the situations that define Modern Warfare. Lead an Operation consisting of Combined forces against a Near Peer Opponent, Conduct a Special Operations mission to Eliminate a High Value Target, or Covertly Infiltrate and conduct an Intelligence gathering mission against a sensitive target – Spectre Operations allows you to play all aspects of these missions, and more.

We are aware that a big gateway interest in firearms at the moment comes from playing video games, and we really want to give another pathway for people that is a little more hands on and creative. Spectre Miniatures sell a comprehensive range of miniatures to support the rules, which require assembly and painting. We’ve found this is a great way for people of all ages to have some time to focus on a task and have a creative outlet. Following on from this, we have also had a lot of success with supporting Veterans groups, including the use of creative therapy.

Head on over to www.spectreminiatures.com to get your pre-order in today. Pre-Order includes a bunch of freebies and ships worldwide.

Posted in Guest Post, International, Training | Comments Off on Spectre Operations Tabletop Gaming

Welcome to the Jungle: MARSOC Diversifies Training Environment

Wednesday, September 27th, 2023

HAWAII – A team of Marine Raiders recently completed a jungle tracking and mobility course as part of their pre-deployment training program.

The course, administered by instructors from the Tactical Tracking Operations School, teaches mobility in a jungle environment, rope and rappel work, jungle tracking, and anti-tracking techniques.

For roughly two weeks, the team worked on enhancing these skills to be able to effectively operate in a jungle environment while deployed.

“Looking at the Pacific and deployments in that region, learning these skills is essential,” said a critical skills operator. “For so long we trained for desert environments and now we have to look at where we could be needed next, and the jungle is top of that list.”

Since 2015, TTOS has been offering some manner of jungle training for U.S. Special Operations Command units, and in 2021, upon the arrival of their current vice president, Cody Carroll, the program began to evolve into what it is today.

“My last deployment as a reconnaissance officer was to the Pacific region,” said Carroll. “Through my own research and training, I realized most units didn’t have the hard skills or training to succeed in this environment.”

The creation of the current course was not about creating a new, innovative program, but more about getting back to how historical forces would have trained.

“These same problems that we have now: low visibility, difficulty for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms, broken communications, and logistical issues, they all existed for troops during WWII and Vietnam,” Carroll said. “We didn’t need to reinvent the wheel, just build the skills that we stopped training because we spent 20 years in the desert.”

Throughout the two weeks, the team trained in every aspect of jungle mobility. They had to navigate thick brush, scale and rappel cliff faces, and traverse rivers and other water features. All while either tracking an adversary or preventing an adversary from being able to track them.

They also spent time learning jungle specific counter improvised explosive device techniques, reaction to contact in dense vegetation, and setting and countering ambushes.

“You see guys that are newer to the team start out very hesitant in these different drills and in tracking,” said a CSO. “By the end of it, the confidence is through the roof, you’ll see those same guys find a track and maneuver the jungle like they’ve been doing it their whole lives.”

The course culminates with an exercise designed to last up to 72 hours where the students are ambushed by an adversary and must regroup and utilize their command and control to organize tracking teams to capture the adversary using all of the tracking and mobility techniques learned over the two weeks.

The team all responded positively to the training, praising its effectiveness and the foundation it provides for SOF units to build upon as they deploy to regions where this sort of mobility is needed.

“I’ve been through this training with two teams now and both experiences were beneficial to everyone on the team,” a CSO said. “I really think every company that can deploy to a jungle environment should come do this training. It’s invaluable.”

Story by Cpl Henry Rodriguez II,

Marine Forces, Special Operations Command

Posted in Guest Post, SOF, Training, USMC | 6 Comments »

DSEI 23 – Raider Targetry

Thursday, September 14th, 2023

Raider Targetry’s motto is “we move. you shoot.” They provide robotic targetry which is fully instrumented and customizable for visual, thermal, radar and maneuver characteristics.

They are also lightweight and their static versions can be hand carried to desired target areas.

raidertargetry.com

Posted in DSEi, International, Training | 1 Comment »