
SPECIAL TACTICS OFFICER
THE ART OF COMBAT
Some missions require exceedingly specialized skill and knowledge to get the job done. One of the most highly trained and elite career fields in the U.S. Air Force, Special Tactics Officers help provide global access for coalition forces with assault zone assessment and control, fire support, personnel recovery/combat search and rescue, battlefield trauma care and tactical weather operations. These highly-trained officers provide subject matter expertise to plan and manage the command and control of Special Tactics forces.
- Coordinate, plan and conduct reconnaissance, surveillance and terminal control
- Provide air traffic control services for expeditionary airfields and assault zones
- Establish command and control communications
- Ensure Special Tactics teams are organized, trained and equipped to perform the core missions
Career tasks
QUALIFICATIONS SUMMARY
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MINIMUM EDUCATION
Bachelor’s degree but no specific degree is required
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QUALIFICATIONS
- Knowledge of maps and charts, command and control principles and procedures, survival techniques, field leadership and evasion
- Completion of specialty training courses
- Meet physical qualification for marine diving, parachutist and ATC duty
- Maintain certification as a combat controller and combat-ready status
- Maintain physical fitness and water confidence standards
- Completion of a current Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI)
- Completion of Officer Training School (OTS), Air Force Academy (AFA) or Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC)
- Must be between the ages of 18 and 39
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APPLICATION PROCESS
Special Tactics Officers must follow a specific application and assessment process conducted six times a year.

TRAINING & EDUCATION
How do we transform you into a leader and an officer in this field? From education to continued training, your Air Force path is here.
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OFFICER TRAINING SCHOOL
8.5 weeks
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MILITARY TRAINING LOCATION
Maxwell AFB AL
- INTERESTS & SKILLS
- Combat & Warfare

TAKE A BREAK
Flights and 30-days vacation with pay each year.