The key facts
- Pete Hegseth signed a memorandum establishing an Air National Guard special tactics squadron in Florida
- The unit will be stationed near USSOCOM (MacDill) and AFSOC (Hurlburt Field)
- Missions: combat control, pararescue operations, and special reconnaissance
Pentagon Decision
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signed a memorandum directing the creation of a new Air National Guard special tactics squadron in Florida. As the Pentagon announced on Wednesday, the goal of the decision is to strengthen special operations forces capabilities and improve combat readiness.
Stationing and Missions
According to the military department's statement, the new unit will be located near key special operations commands: U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) at MacDill Air Force Base and Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) at Hurlburt Field. The task is to deepen the integration of the Air National Guard with active-duty special operations forces, as well as expand capabilities in combat operations, intelligence, and personnel recovery.
Pentagon Comments
Pentagon chief spokesperson Sean Parnell stated: “Under Secretary Hegseth's leadership, we are growing our elite Special Tactics community.” According to him, the memorandum directs the creation of the squadron and its stationing in the heart of the special operations community at Hurlburt Field and MacDill Air Force Base. The Pentagon added that the Florida-based squadron will enhance combat control, pararescue, and special reconnaissance capabilities through the experience of Air National Guard personnel.
