Special Operations Forces Tier System

The tier system refers to Special Operations Forces capabilities within the United States Armed Forces. Each tier denotes such aspects as the unit’s readiness, funding, chain of command, classification, ability, tasking, and capabilities. The Tier association is sometimes applied to Special Operation counterparts in other nations who may or may not have the same skill set/skill level, but who do occupy the same niche.
Tier One
Tier One are elements, which are national-level assets that comprise the highest level on the United States Special Operations Command spectrum and National Command Authority. The chain of command for these units bypasses traditional military bureaucracy, and they will be deployed directly by the President, Joint Chiefs, and/or Defense Secretary. These units are the most selective and include the secretive Delta Force and the counterpart DEVGRU. The Army's Intelligence Support Activity, and the 24th Special Tactics Squadron are Tier One intelligence and support elements. These are the black side of the Special Operations community, and fall under the Joint Special Operations Command's Special Mission Unit classification. Tier One units maintain a JSOC readiness level and deploy within a Joint Special Operations Rotational Group.
Tier Two
Tier Two units are JSOC direct action support elements. These units directly support SMUs and maintain a JSOC worldwide deployment readiness level. These units fall under the command of JSOC, and participate in JSOC training and deployment rotations. This includes the Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment, and 160th Special Operation Aviation Regiment. Additionally, USASOC NBC and Psychological Operations Units, along with U.S. Air Force Pararescue / Combat Controller personnel are assigned to direct action Joint Special Operation Task Forces when needed. These units are also required to maintain a JSOC readiness level.
Tier Three
Tier Three are “white” Special Operation elements. These units do not maintain a JSOC readiness level, and are not required to participate in JSOC quarterly training exercises, although these units can be assigned to Joint Special Operation Task Forces when appropriate. These units include the U.S. Army Special Forces, and the U.S. Navy SEAL Teams. Tier Three core operations include: Unconventional Warfare, Foreign Internal Defense, Security Force Assistance, Special Reconnaissance, Counterinsurgency Operations, and support of general Special Operation Objectives. Tier Three units make up the majority of the U.S. Special Operation Command.

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