Delta Force Branch And Operations Explained Simply

The world of special operations is often shrouded in mystery, with various units operating in the shadows to protect national interests. One of the most elite and secretive units is the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta (1st SFOD-D), commonly known as Delta Force. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Delta Force, exploring its history, organization, and operations.

History of Delta Force

Delta Force was formed in 1977 by Colonel Charles Beckwith, a veteran of the US Army Special Forces. Beckwith was inspired by the British Special Air Service (SAS) and wanted to create a similar unit that could conduct counter-terrorism and hostage rescue operations. The unit was initially called the "Blue Light" team, but was later renamed to 1st SFOD-D, with the nickname "Delta Force" being used informally.

Delta Force was formed in response to the growing threat of terrorism in the 1970s, particularly after the Munich Olympics massacre in 1972. The unit was designed to be a rapid response force that could conduct high-risk missions, such as hostage rescue and counter-terrorism operations.

Organization of Delta Force

Delta Force is organized into several squadrons, each with its own specialty. The unit is headquartered at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and is part of the US Army Special Operations Command (USASOC). Delta Force operators are handpicked from the US Army's Special Forces, Rangers, and other special operations units.

Delta Force is known for its selective recruitment process, with candidates undergoing rigorous testing and evaluation before being selected for the unit. Operators must have a strong background in special operations, language skills, and cultural expertise. They must also be in top physical condition and possess excellent marksmanship skills.

Delta Force Operations

Delta Force conducts a wide range of operations, including:

Counter-terrorism: Delta Force operators are trained to conduct counter-terrorism operations, including hostage rescue and terrorist apprehension.
Direct Action: Delta Force conducts direct action missions, including raids, ambushes, and reconnaissance.
Special Reconnaissance: Delta Force operators conduct special reconnaissance missions, including surveillance and intelligence gathering.
Unconventional Warfare: Delta Force conducts unconventional warfare missions, including training and advising foreign forces.

Delta Force operators are known for their expertise in close quarters combat (CQC), high-risk arrest warrants, and hostage rescue. They are also trained in advanced first aid and medical evacuation procedures.

Training and Selection

Delta Force operators undergo rigorous training and selection, which includes:

Assessment and Selection: Candidates undergo a grueling assessment and selection process, which includes physical fitness tests, language proficiency tests, and psychological evaluations.
Operator Training Course: Candidates who pass the assessment and selection process attend the Operator Training Course (OTC), which teaches advanced skills in CQC, marksmanship, and first aid.
Advanced Training: Delta Force operators receive advanced training in specialized skills, such as helicopter operations, parachute training, and language training.

Delta Force Equipment and Vehicles

Delta Force operators use a wide range of equipment and vehicles, including:

Firearms: Delta Force operators use a variety of firearms, including the M4 carbine, the M9 pistol, and the M24 sniper rifle.
Vehicles: Delta Force operators use a variety of vehicles, including the MH-6 Little Bird helicopter, the MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, and the Ground Mobility Vehicle (GMV).
Communications: Delta Force operators use advanced communications equipment, including satellite phones and encrypted radios.

Delta Force in Popular Culture

Delta Force has been featured in several books, films, and video games, including:

The book "Delta Force" by Charlie Beckwith, which tells the story of the unit's formation and early operations.
The film "The Delta Force" (1986), which stars Chuck Norris as a Delta Force operator.
The video game "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3" (2011), which features a Delta Force operator as the main protagonist.

Conclusion

Delta Force is an elite special operations unit that conducts high-risk missions around the world. With its rigorous selection process, advanced training, and specialized equipment, Delta Force is one of the most feared and respected units in the world. Whether conducting counter-terrorism operations, direct action missions, or special reconnaissance, Delta Force operators are trained to operate in the most challenging environments and to complete their missions with precision and skill.