How to Join — Officer
Officer Career Fields
There are three AFSPECWAR officer career fields. Each has its own application process, timeline, and point of contact. All three follow a two-phase selection model: a written application (Phase I) reviewed by a board, followed by a week-long in-person assessment (Phase II).
Special Tactics Officer
19ZXASTOs are experts in setting up remote airstrips in hostile territory, planning reconnaissance missions, and leading the teams who go behind enemy lines to enable airpower.
Application Deadlines
- 15 Aug 2025
- 23 Jan 2026
Phase II Screener
- 20–24 Oct 2025
- 9–13 Mar 2026
TACP Officer
19ZXBThese officers lead teams to call in and direct airstrikes from aircraft, drones, and artillery to support ground troops. They are masters of communication and tactics under pressure.
Quarterly boards — 4 cycles per year
Application Deadlines
- 7 Jul 2025
- 14 Nov 2025
- 9 Jan 2026
- 8 May 2026
Phase II Screener
- 15–19 Sep 2025
- 26–31 Jan 2026
- 9–14 Mar 2026
- 13–18 Jul 2026
Combat Rescue Officer
19ZXCWhen a service member is trapped, injured, or isolated behind enemy lines, CROs lead their rescue teams through high-stakes missions to bring them home safely.
Application Deadlines
- 15 Aug 2025
- 16 Jan 2026
Phase II Screener
- Oct 2025
- Mar 2026
Accession Sources
Select your commissioning source for background-specific information
Air Force AcademyAir Force ROTCInterservice TransferCivilian