Table of Contents
When it comes to the United States Army's elite special operations units, the Night Stalkers are one of the most highly regarded. With a reputation for precision, agility, and excellence in night operations, this group of highly trained soldiers is tasked with some of the most challenging missions in the military.
Who are Night Stalkers?
Night Stalkers are a special operations unit in the United States Army. Their official title is the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR), but they are commonly known as Night Stalkers due to their expertise in nighttime operations. The unit was established in 1981 and has since become one of the most respected and elite military units in the world.
Army Night Stalker Requirements
The requirements for becoming a Night Stalker are rigorous, and only the most highly skilled soldiers are selected for the unit. Candidates must first complete basic training, advanced individual training, and airborne school. They must also have a minimum of two years of service in the Army and have an ASVAB General Technical (GT) score of 110 or higher. Additionally, they must meet specific physical fitness standards and have no criminal history.
Once these requirements are met, soldiers must complete the Special Operations Aviation Training Course (SOATC), which is one of the most challenging training programs in the military. The course includes training in high-altitude, low-opening (HALO) jumps, fast-rope and rappel operations, and advanced land navigation, among other skills.
Army Night Stalkers vs. Rangers
While the Night Stalkers and Rangers are both elite special operations units in the United States Army, they have different areas of expertise. The Rangers specialize in direct action missions, such as raids and ambushes, while the Night Stalkers are responsible for providing air support for special operations forces. They are the Army's premier helicopter aviation unit and are capable of providing transportation, reconnaissance, and fire support in any environment, day or night.
How Many Night Stalkers Are There?
The number of Night Stalkers is classified, but it is estimated that there are approximately 3,000 soldiers in the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment. These soldiers are highly trained and can operate in some of the most challenging environments in the world.
