Is Delta Force An Army Special Forces Unit

Delta Force, also known as the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta (1st SFOD-D), is an elite counter-terrorism unit within the United States Army Special Operations Command (USASOC). While often referred to as an Army Special Forces unit, the exact relationship between Delta Force and the traditional Special Forces, also known as the Green Berets, is a subject of interest among enthusiasts and enthusiasts of special operations.

Origins of Delta Force

Delta Force was created in 1977, in response to the increased threat of terrorism in the 1970s, particularly the Munich Olympics hostage crisis in 1972. The US Army recognized the need for a specialized unit capable of conducting counter-terrorism and direct action operations. The unit was established under the command of Colonel Charles Beckwith, a veteran of the US Army Special Forces, and was based on the British Special Air Service (SAS) model.

Relationship with Army Special Forces

While Delta Force is not a traditional Special Forces unit, it is indeed a part of the US Army Special Operations Command (USASOC), which also includes the Special Forces. The primary distinction between Delta Force and traditional Special Forces lies in their operational focus and structure.

Traditional Special Forces units, such as the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, and 10th Special Forces Groups (Airborne), are trained to conduct unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, and direct action missions. They are organized into Operational Detachments (ODAs), which typically consist of 12-15 personnel, and focus on building relationships with indigenous forces and conducting operations in a more clandestine manner.

Delta Force, on the other hand, is a counter-terrorism unit, focused on conducting high-risk, direct action missions, such as hostage rescue, high-value target (HVT) missions, and counter-terrorism operations. Delta Force operators are trained to conduct operations in a more overt manner, often in support of other US government agencies, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

Selection and Training

The selection process for Delta Force is notoriously rigorous, with an estimated 80-90% washout rate. Candidates must be seasoned Army Special Forces operators, typically with 5-7 years of experience, and must have a proven track record of success in combat. The selection process includes a battery of physical and mental evaluations, as well as a thorough background check.

Once selected, candidates undergo an intense training program, known as Operator Training Course (OTC), which lasts approximately 6-8 months. The OTC training program is designed to push candidates to their limits, testing their physical and mental endurance, as well as their ability to work in high-stress environments.

Delta Force Operations

Delta Force has conducted numerous high-profile operations throughout its history, including:

• Operation Eagle Claw (1980): A failed attempt to rescue American hostages held in Iran.
• Operation Urgent Fury (1983): A successful invasion of Grenada, in which Delta Force operators conducted a hostage rescue mission.
• Operation Gothic Serpent (1993): A mission to capture Somali warlords in Mogadishu, Somalia, which was immortalized in the book and film "Black Hawk Down."

Delta Force has also been involved in numerous counter-terrorism operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, working closely with other US government agencies and coalition partners.

Conclusion

While Delta Force is not a traditional Army Special Forces unit, it is an integral part of the US Army Special Operations Command. Its unique operational focus and structure set it apart from other special operations units, making it a valuable asset in the global war on terrorism. As the threat landscape continues to evolve, Delta Force will remain a critical component of US national security, conducting high-risk missions to protect American interests and citizens.

Gallery of Delta Force and Special Forces

Delta Force and Special Forces Image Gallery

We hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of Delta Force and its role within the US Army Special Operations Command. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.