SOT-A


A SOT-A is a signals intelligence–electronic warfare element of the United States Army Special Forces. They are low-level SIGINT collection teams that intercept and report operational and technical information derived from tactical threat communications through prescribed communications paths. The mission of a SOT-A is to conduct SIGINT/EW in support of information operations to support existing and emerging SOF missions worldwide.
SOT-A's are the direct descendants of the Army Security Agency's Special Operations Detachments.

Capabilities

SOT-As can detect, monitor, and exploit threat communications through communications transmission intercept and direction finding. SOT-As also can deploy with Special Forces Operational Detachments-A to provide SIGINT support for contingency, direct action, force protection, or MTT support. These functions may require SOT-As to:
SOT-A team members can operate in remote and denied areas. In addition to their linguistic and SIGINT skills, SOT-As are trained in tactical and fieldcraft techniques.

SIGINT (Signals Intelligence)

Advanced training may include:
Currently, there is one SOT-A section per battalion at every Special Forces Group. A SOT-A team generally consists of four members.