Joint Training Enhances Urban Combat Capabilities

On September 4, 2025, Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) conducted a joint operation with U.S. Air Force pararescuemen (PJs) and combat controllers (CCTs) as part of the Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat Course (SFAUC). This operation, held at Fort Carson, Colorado, served as a culminating exercise for five Special Forces Operational Detachment Alphas (SFOD-A), focusing on urban combat skills essential for modern military operations.

Joint Training Strengthens Partnerships for Urban Combat

Initiated in the early 2000s, the SFAUC is designed to enhance the capabilities of Special Forces units across all seven special forces groups. The course is structured according to a Program of Instruction from the United States Army Special Operations Command, enabling the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) to serve as subject matter experts in the United States European Command area, particularly in unconventional warfare and direct action missions.

Joint Training Strengthens Partnerships for Urban Combat

The joint operation took place in a simulated village environment where the teams executed a close-quarters battle (CQB) to capture or eliminate a high-value target (HVT). Air Force operators utilized their specialized skills in emergency medical care and aircraft control, facilitating effective collaboration among the military branches. Throughout the mission, CCTs maintained communication with various aircraft, including a U28-A Draco, an AH-64 Apache, and a UH-60 Black Hawk.

Joint Training Strengthens Partnerships for Urban Combat

Prior to the operation, reconnaissance conducted by a special forces detachment provided critical intelligence, allowing for effective planning. Sniper teams supported the operation by providing covering fire as the units advanced through the objective.

Joint Training Strengthens Partnerships for Urban Combat

The commander of Bravo Company emphasized the significance of building relationships with Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), stating that joint operations foster inherent benefits and enhance operational effectiveness. The Operations Warrant Officer noted that the compartmentalized approach of military entities prior to 9/11 proved ineffective, leading to a greater emphasis on joint operations in contemporary combat scenarios.

Joint Training Strengthens Partnerships for Urban Combat

Following the successful capture of the HVT, the SFOD-As exfiltrated the area while the Air Force team conducted a medical evacuation for injured personnel. The company commander expressed optimism about future collaborations with AFSOC, aiming to exchange tactics in CQB and medical training. He acknowledged time constraints during the operation limited information exchange but looked forward to more extensive joint training opportunities.

Joint Training Strengthens Partnerships for Urban Combat

• “I think there is a lot of inherent goodness in joint operations like this and learning how the Air Force or even the Navy plans and executes operations.” — Company Commander, Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne)

Joint Training Strengthens Partnerships for Urban Combat

• “Prior to 9/11, every [military] entity was more compartmentalized, and we found out the hard way we can’t operate like that to be successful,” — Operations Warrant Officer, Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne)

Joint Training Strengthens Partnerships for Urban Combat

This operation exemplifies the critical nature of joint training in enhancing the capabilities of U.S. military forces in urban combat environments, ensuring readiness for future missions.

Joint Training Strengthens Partnerships for Urban Combat