Special Reconnaissance (SR) is a specialized field in the United States Air Force that focuses on gathering timely and accurate intelligence to support airpower and address the challenges posed by near-peer adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran. SR Airmen are trained in a wide range of skills and techniques, making them versatile and adaptable in various operational scenarios. Here are some key points about SR:

1. Unique Training: SR Airmen undergo rigorous training, which includes traditional reconnaissance skills like crawling through challenging terrain in ghillie suits and using sniper scopes. They are also trained in modern techniques, such as operating small drones and conducting cyber and electronic warfare to gather intelligence.
2. Niche Capability: SR emerged in 2019, replacing the special operations weather teams (SOWT). While SOWT focused on gathering weather and environmental intelligence, SR’s primary mission is air-minded reconnaissance to address potential conflicts against near-peer adversaries.
3. Integrated Air Defense Problem: SR Airmen are tasked with addressing the integrated air defense problem that potential adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran might pose. They may need to observe enemy anti-air defenses, gather intelligence on troop movements, assess battle damage, or scout aircraft landing zones.
4. Ground Truth: In situations where satellites or aerial reconnaissance may not be available, SR Airmen provide the “ground truth” through their training in traditional reconnaissance methods. This ensures the Air Force has a reliable means to gather critical information in any circumstance.
5. Cyber and Electronic Warfare: SR Airmen also play a role in cyber and electronic warfare, acting as a link between advanced computer systems and the target. The specifics of these capabilities are not disclosed for security reasons.
6. Diverse Skill Sets: The SR field offers a wide range of skill sets, allowing Airmen to specialize in areas like drone operations, cyber warfare, or higher-level intelligence gathering based on their interests and aptitudes.
7. Limited Number of SR Airmen: Currently, there are only around 50 SR Airmen, but the Air Force aims to expand this number to over 100 to enhance its special reconnaissance capabilities.
8. Attracting Diverse Talent: The unique and relatively new nature of the SR field attracts service members from various backgrounds, including former Marines and Green Berets. Some are drawn to SR for its focus on long-range shooting and cyber warfare.
9. Proving Themselves: Because SR is a newer field, Airmen often have to explain their roles to others when deployed. However, this challenge is seen as an opportunity for SR Airmen to demonstrate their capabilities and adaptability.

Special Reconnaissance is a dynamic and critical field within the Air Force, allowing Airmen to play a vital role in gathering essential intelligence to support air operations and national security objectives.

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SOURCE

Inside the Air Force’s Newest SOF Career: Special Reconnaissance