Application and Implications for the SOF Truths and Aviation

The Special Operations Forces SOF Truths are the four governing principles that have been the foundation for all special operations forces since the establishment of the United States Special Operations Command. Humans are more important than hardware SOF cannot be mass produced Quality is more important than quantity and Competent SOF cannot be created after emergencies occur. These principles guide the acquisition, training, employment and sustainment of all SOF. Since 911 SOF aviation has played an increasingly important role in the Global War on Terror. As such, the Air Force Special Operations Command AFSOC has seen a tremendous growth in both personnel and weapons systems. This growth seems to have created a departure from the SOF Truths and thus a potential problem. This paper first addresses the applicability of the SOF Truths to SOF aviation and specifically the acquisition and training of AFSOC pilots. It contends that a lack of adherence to the SOF Truths can and has led to unsafe practices and ultimately aircraft mishaps. Finally, it concludes that, while AFSOC has taken great strides to remedy shortfalls in the current training system, there are definite pitfalls to be prepared for as the command continues to grow and adapt in the future. As there is little literature available on the SOF Truths and aviation, the research methodology for this project was primarily interviews of past and current SOF aviators with experience ranging from line pilots to current and past squadron commanders. In an attempt to limit this research project, this paper focuses on two squadrons that are representative of the current conundrum of adhering to a strict training philosophy while maintaining combat readiness and a high operations tempo.