What can you tell me about all special operations branches of the military?

So, I'm greatly fascinated by special operations within the military. I realize each branch has its special operatives, but I'm a little stuck on the details. Can someone break down the roles, training requirements, scope of operations, and basic qualifications for special ops in the numerous branches of the U.S. military?

Absolutely! Let's take this one by one:

1. Army Special Forces (Green Berets):

Army Special Forces units are tasked with unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, direct action, special reconnaissance, and counter-terrorism. The training is rigorous and requires rigorous physical, mental, and technical abilities. Basic qualifications include U.S. citizenship, a minimum of 20/20 corrected vision, a General Technical score of 110 or higher on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), and applicants must pass a physical.

2. Navy SEALs:

SEALs (Sea, Air, and Land) carry out missions that require stealth and precision. Their operations encompass direct action warfare, special reconnaissance, counter-terrorism, and foreign internal defense. The SEAL training is notoriously grueling, including BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL). Basic qualifications include possessing excellent swimming skills, 20/70 vision correctable to 20/25 with no color blindness, and scoring well on the ASVAB test.

3. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC):

MARSOC units conduct direct action, special reconnaissance, irregular warfare, and more. To join, Marines must have a General Technical score on the ASVAB of 105 or higher, have correctable 20/200 vision, possess a secret security clearance, and complete a rigorous training course that involves physical, mental, and technical education.

4. Air Force Special Tactics:

The Air Force's Special Tactics teams are highly versatile, executing missions like precision strike, personnel recovery, and battlefield surgery. Training encompasses physical conditioning, water confidence, and learning various air operations. Basic qualifications include securing a minimum of 30 points on the Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) physical ability and stamina test, having correctable 20/20 vision, and general ability to withstand demanding physical and mental preparation.

5. Coast Guard Deployable Specialized Forces (DSF):

DSF personnel conduct missions like maritime law enforcement, counter-terrorism, anti-piracy operations, and maritime defense and security. Training is both physically and intellectually challenging, with candidates needing to demonstrate skills in maritime operations as well as law enforcement. Basic qualifications could include passing a physical fitness test, meeting certain vision requirements based on duty, and demonstrating proficiency in laws and regulations pertaining to maritime law enforcement.

Each compartment mentioned has unique training protocols and specific missions. These descriptions are broad; individual units within each branch may have more specific roles and qualifications. It's essential that interested candidates research in-depth, possibly even reaching out to a military recruiter for up-to-date information and advice.