5 Ways 24th Special Tactics Squadron Leads the Way
The 24th Special Tactics Squadron (24 STS) is a unique unit within the United States Air Force that plays a crucial role in the country’s special operations forces. As part of the 24th Special Operations Wing, this squadron is trained to conduct a variety of missions, including personnel recovery, global access, precision strike, and battlefield management. Here are five ways the 24th Special Tactics Squadron leads the way:
Mission Planning and Execution
The 24 STS is responsible for planning and executing special operations missions in support of national objectives. These missions can include anything from personnel recovery to high-risk arrest warrants, and the squadron’s experts are trained to handle every aspect of the operation. From gathering intelligence and conducting reconnaissance to providing terminal attack control and close air support, the 24 STS is the go-to unit for special operations forces.
📝 Note: The 24 STS works closely with other special operations units, including the Army's 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta (1st SFOD-D) and the Navy's Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU), to ensure seamless integration and effective mission execution.
Advanced Training and Certification
The 24 STS is known for its rigorous training program, which includes advanced courses in parachuting, combat diving, and languages. Squadron members must also complete the U.S. Army’s Basic Airborne Course and the U.S. Navy’s Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training program. This advanced training enables the 24 STS to operate effectively in a variety of environments, from the jungle to the desert, and to conduct missions that other units cannot.
- Some of the advanced training courses offered to 24 STS members include:
- U.S. Army Ranger School
- U.S. Navy SEAL Qualification Training
- U.S. Air Force Combat Controller Team (CCT) training
- U.S. Air Force Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) training
State-of-the-Art Equipment and Technology
The 24 STS has access to some of the most advanced equipment and technology in the military, including:
- Advanced parachuting systems, such as the MC-5 ram-air parachute
- Combat diving gear, including rebreathers and underwater navigation systems
- Specialized vehicles, such as the modified Toyota Land Cruiser
- Advanced communication systems, including satellite phones and secure radios
💻 Note: The 24 STS also has access to advanced software and apps, including terrain- visualization tools and mission-planning platforms, to enhance mission planning and execution.
Integration with Other Special Operations Units
The 24 STS works closely with other special operations units to ensure effective mission execution. This includes integrating with units from the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps, as well as with coalition partners. By working together, the 24 STS can leverage the unique skills and expertise of each unit to achieve a common objective.
- Some of the units the 24 STS integrates with include:
- U.S. Army 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta (1st SFOD-D)
- U.S. Navy Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU)
- U.S. Air Force 24th Special Operations Wing (24 SOW)
- Coalition special operations forces, including the British Special Air Service (SAS) and the Australian Special Air Service Regiment (SASR)
Global Reach and Deployment
The 24 STS is a global unit, with the ability to deploy anywhere in the world at a moment’s notice. Squadron members are trained to operate in a variety of environments, from the jungle to the desert, and can conduct missions in support of national objectives.
- Some of the countries where the 24 STS has deployed include:
- Afghanistan
- Iraq
- Syria
- Africa
- South America
The 24th Special Tactics Squadron is a unique unit that plays a critical role in the U.S. military’s special operations forces. With its advanced training, state-of-the-art equipment, and global reach, the 24 STS is a key player in the country’s ability to conduct special operations missions.
What is the primary mission of the 24th Special Tactics Squadron?
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The primary mission of the 24th Special Tactics Squadron is to conduct special operations missions in support of national objectives.
What type of training does the 24 STS receive?
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The 24 STS receives advanced training in parachuting, combat diving, and languages, as well as certification in specialized skills such as close air support and terminal attack control.
What is the relationship between the 24 STS and other special operations units?
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The 24 STS works closely with other special operations units, including the U.S. Army’s 1st SFOD-D and the U.S. Navy’s DEVGRU, to ensure effective mission execution and integration.
