DELTA Force Member Describes Intense Selection Process

By SOFREP —  George E. Hand

Becoming a Delta Force operator is an exclusive and demanding process. Civilians cannot directly apply for the Unit. Instead, individuals must first enlist in the Army and meet specific requirements before even being considered.

These requirements include:

• Rank: E-4 through E-8 (enlisted) or O-3 through O-4 (officer)
• Age: 21 years old
• Airborne qualification or willingness to volunteer for training
• Score at least 110 on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB)
• Ability to obtain a Secret security clearance
• No record of disciplinary action
• At least 2.5 years remaining in military service

While many Delta Force operators come from the Special Forces or the 75th Ranger Regiment, membership in this unit is not a prerequisite for applying.

Additionally, depending on their contract obligations and approvals, special operations members from other branches may be eligible to apply for Delta Force selection.

Delta Force Selection and Training: A Crucible of Excellence

Delta Force’s entire operation, including the training pipeline, is shrouded in secrecy. Eric Haney’s book Inside Delta Force provides valuable insight into Delta Force operator’s training and selection process.

Delta Force selection is known for its arduous land navigation and rucking evolutions. Only the most physically and mentally fit individuals with exceptional skills and unwavering determination can make it through.

The selection and training pipeline is designed to push candidates to their absolute limits and identify those who possess the unique qualities required for success in this elite unit.

Selection

The selection process is held twice yearly (late March to late April and late September to late October) at Camp Dawson, West Virginia; it is notoriously grueling, lasts for four weeks and consists of several phases:

• Physical Fitness: Candidates undergo a series of rigorous physical tests, including endurance runs, obstacle courses, and swimming while carrying heavy loads.
• Land Navigation: Mental toughness and navigational skills are tested through challenging land navigation exercises in diverse terrains and under various conditions. One of the most demanding tests involves an 18-mile, all-night land navigation course with a 40-pound ruck. As the candidates progress through selection, the weight of the rucks increases while the timeline to complete the land navigation courses decreases.
• Combat Skills: Candidates demonstrate their proficiency in weapons handling, close-quarters combat, and tactical maneuvers.
• Psychological Evaluation: Mental resilience and the ability to perform under extreme pressure are assessed through rigorous psychological evaluations.

Only a small percentage of candidates make it through this demanding selection process. Those who succeed move on to the next stage.