SFAS Adds Another Week to Assessment

Good morning. 

Special Forces Assessment and Selection is already regarded as one of the most grueling assessments in the US Military, begging the question: Is adding another week really necessary? Well, that’s our focus for this week’s newsletter.

We also had the pleasure of chatting with Ronnie Blackburn on the podcast. In case you missed below is a link to his interview.

ANALYSIS
Evolving the Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) Course: The Journey from 3 to 4 Weeks

The Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) course stands as the formidable gateway to the elite ranks of the U.S. Army Special Forces. Recent changes to the course have extended it from a three-week to a four-week duration. In this comprehensive article, we explore the historical evolution of SFAS, including the brief shift to a two-week course in 2008. We also delve into the reasons behind these changes and how the additional week now focuses on enhancing land navigation skills, particularly in preparation for the "Star Course."

SFAS: A Comprehensive Overview

The Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) course is renowned for its stringent evaluation process, designed to assess the physical and mental prowess of individuals aspiring to join the Special Forces community. This multifaceted course subjects candidates to a series of grueling challenges, preparing them for the high-stress, unconventional warfare environments characteristic of Special Forces operations.

The Shift to Two Weeks in 2008

In 2008, SFAS experienced an unprecedented shift in its structure. Traditionally spanning three weeks, the course was temporarily reduced to a mere two weeks. The decision behind this change was the belief that a shorter selection process would lead to a surge in successful SFAS candidates. The expectation was that by making the course more accessible, the standards would be met by a larger pool of candidates.

However, the outcome of this decision did not align with expectations. Rather than improving the selection numbers, the reduction in course duration had a detrimental effect. The question that looms is, why didn't a shorter SFAS course yield the expected results?

The Flawed Assumption

The primary reason for reducing the course duration was rooted in the assumption that a more intensive, shorter selection process would attract and retain a larger pool of candidates. Decision-makers believed that it would expedite the identification of the best candidates. Unfortunately, this assumption proved to be flawed. Shortening the course did not lead to better selection results; instead, it created an environment where candidates had insufficient time to demonstrate their capabilities and adapt to the unique demands of SFAS.

Returning to a Four-Week Format

Recognizing that the two-week experiment did not produce the desired results, the decision-makers behind SFAS concluded that a longer and more comprehensive assessment was necessary to identify the most qualified candidates. As a result, the course was returned to its traditional three-week format. However, the need for an additional week soon became evident.

Low Selection Numbers and the Significance of Land Navigation

In recent years, SFAS has confronted a new challenge: a decline in selection numbers. The inherent difficulty of the course, combined with the evolving nature of Special Forces operations, led to a dwindling number of candidates successfully completing the assessment.

To address this issue, SFAS has again undergone change, this time extending its duration to four weeks. The additional week is integrated into the most challenging part of the course, the Land Navigation week. The decision stems from the belief that more time spent on this crucial skill will improve candidates' performance in that aspect of training.

The Star Course: A Crucial Land Navigation Challenge

The "Star Course" is a pivotal segment of the Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) course. It serves as a grueling test of candidates' land navigation skills, mental resilience, and physical endurance. In this section, candidates are tasked with navigating a complex series of waypoints over a long distance, often covering over 40 miles, while carrying a weighted rucksack. Successful completion of the Star Course is vital for advancing in SFAS and becoming a Special Forces candidate.

Enhancing Land Navigation Skills

The decision to extend SFAS to four weeks with a specific focus on land navigation recognizes the critical role this skill plays in the success of Special Forces candidates. This additional week is dedicated to providing candidates with more practical exercises and training to help them excel at the Star Course.

Practical Exercises

During the extra week, candidates undergo a series of practical exercises that are tailored to improve their land navigation proficiency. These exercises involve hands-on practice in navigating challenging terrains, both during the day and at night. Candidates are taught essential map-reading and compass skills, terrain association, and how to calculate and adjust their pace count accurately.

The Practical Night Navigation

Night navigation is a crucial aspect of Special Forces operations, and it's especially challenging. Candidates in SFAS are now given more opportunities to navigate in low-light and night-time conditions. This hands-on experience is designed to improve their ability to maintain course accuracy and stay on track during the darkness of night.

Advanced Techniques and Technology

In addition to traditional land navigation methods, candidates are introduced to advanced techniques and technology. This includes the use of GPS devices, electronic mapping tools, and night-vision equipment. These modern tools are integrated into the training to enhance candidates' navigation abilities and familiarize them with the technology they may use in the field.

Mental Resilience

Land navigation is not just about reading maps and following compass bearings; it's also a test of mental resilience. Candidates are under considerable stress during the Star Course, and the extended training week includes psychological conditioning exercises to help them stay focused and composed while navigating challenging terrains.

Physical Conditioning

The Star Course is a physically demanding challenge that pushes candidates to their limits. The additional week incorporates fitness training, including ruck marches and strength conditioning, to ensure that candidates are in peak physical condition to undertake the rigors of the course.

Conclusion

The Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) course has continually evolved to meet the ever-changing demands of Special Forces operations. The recent shift from a three-week to a four-week course, with a heightened focus on enhancing land navigation skills, represents a commitment to maintaining the high standards and excellence of the U.S. Army Special Forces.

This additional week provides candidates with more practical exercises, training, and preparation to excel at the demanding Star Course, a pivotal land navigation challenge. By equipping candidates with the necessary skills, tools, and mental resilience, the extended SFAS course aims to produce a more capable and effective cadre of Special Forces candidates who can thrive in the unpredictable and challenging environments they will encounter in their future missions.

PODCAST RECOMMENDATIONS
Break Free from Training Failure

Watch the YouTube Video here 👇

Discover the Secrets of SFAS & Q-course with Ronnie Blackburn