Fm 31 28 Fouo Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat 1 December 1999 25 May 2026
Surprisingly, FM 31-28 contained a section on commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) radio-controlled aircraft being weaponized by enemy forces. This was prophetic for 2020s drone warfare. Recommendation 25 in that chapter: use a 25-foot length of monofilament fishing line suspended between two buildings to entangle low-flying drones.
If you want, I can:
FM 31-28, dated 1 December 1999, is a legacy Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) manual formerly marked FOUO that established foundational tactics for urban operations. The document detailed techniques in close quarters battle, breaching, and advanced marksmanship. For an overview of the SFAUC course, visit Special Forces Training. SF Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) - Special Forces Training
Field Manual (FM) 31-28, Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) , is a specialized Army doctrine published on December 1, 1999
. It serves as the primary manual for the Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat program, which is designed to provide Special Forces Operational Detachments "A" (ODAs)
with the advanced skills required to operate in hostile urban environments. specialforcestraining.info Core Training Objectives
The manual outlines the syllabus for a month-long training course usually conducted at the Special Forces Group level . Key focus areas include: specialforcestraining.info Close Quarters Battle (CQB):
Refined techniques for entering and clearing single-story, multi-room structures. Advanced Marksmanship:
High-level rifle, pistol, and shotgun training, including transitioning between shooting positions and engaging targets in dense urban areas. Breaching Techniques:
Both mechanical and explosive entry methods to overcome obstacles and reduce obstacles. Urban Movement:
Methods for navigating complex city layouts, including repelling, fast-roping, and climbing. Infiltration:
Strategic movement to targets via helicopter insertion or parachute. specialforcestraining.info Distribution and Classification Classification: The document was originally designated as "For Official Use Only" (FOUO) Distribution Restriction
authorized only for U.S. Government agencies and their contractors. Restriction:
It is specifically intended to protect technical and operational information from public or international dissemination. Current Status:
While widely cited in bibliographies of other Special Forces manuals, the full text remains restricted and must be requested through the
Commander of the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School (USAJFKSWCS) Berlin Information-center for Transatlantic Security Role in Modern Operations Special Forces Operations Manual FM 3-05.20 | PDF - Scribd
FM 31-28, Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) from 1 December 1999, established standardized high-intensity, precision-focused tactical doctrine for Special Forces Operational Detachment Alphas, addressing the need for specialized urban training. It introduced critical skills like discriminatory engagement, advanced breaching, and CQB that laid the foundation for modern special operations tactics. Read more regarding the SFAUC course on specialforcestraining.info SF Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) - Special Forces Training
FM 31-28, Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (1999), provides a technical foundation for Close Quarters Battle and specialized breaching techniques tailored for Special Operational Forces. This FOUO manual emphasizes surgical, high-intensity operations, reflecting pre-9/11 tactical doctrine for 12-man Operational Detachment Alpha (ODA) units. Review the source material at Special Forces Training. SF Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) - Special Forces Training
The document FM 31-28 Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC)
, dated 1 December 1999, is a critical historical and technical manual designed to provide Special Forces
commanders and operational detachments with a standardized doctrinal basis for high-intensity operations in urbanized terrain. specialforcestraining.info Review Overview : It serves as the primary guidance for the Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC)
course, which is a mandatory advanced training program for Special Forces Operational Detachment "A" (ODA) members following their initial qualification. Target Audience
: Specifically tailored for ODA, ODB, and ODC commanders to organize and prepare for missions involving sensitive special operations
, including direct action and counter-terrorism in urban centers. Core Focus
: The manual emphasizes the transition from traditional unconventional warfare to Close Quarters Battle (CQB)
, focusing on precision tactics where "every angle is covered" and threats are neutralized with extreme speed. specialforcestraining.info Key Tactical Components Surprisingly, FM 31-28 contained a section on commercial
As described in the manual's framework and the associated course, several specialized skill sets are prioritized: Breaching Operations : Detailed instruction on both mechanical and explosive breaching to gain entry into fortified structures. Infiltration Methods
: Techniques for reaching targets in dense urban areas, including helicopter insertion fast-roping parachute infiltration Precision Shooting : Instruction on advanced marksmanship
, including quick-fire and assault-fire techniques specifically adapted for the restricted sightlines of buildings and rubble. Mission Planning : Guidelines for high-value target (HVT)
capture or elimination, navigating complex roadblocks, and vehicle search procedures. specialforcestraining.info Historical Significance
Released in late 1999, this manual captured the Army's shifting realization that "urban combat will negate many of the technological advantages" of the era, necessitating a more aggressive and specialized training regime to avoid costly defeats in future urban theaters. apps.dtic.mil from this manual, such as explosive breaching room clearing procedures? SF Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) - Special Forces Training
FM 31-28, Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (FOUO), is a 1999 U.S. Army manual outlining specialized tactics for CQB and unconventional urban warfare. The document, which serves as the foundation for the SFAUC training course, focuses on multidimensional, high-precision combat operations. While the specific manual is not public, similar doctrinal materials, such as FM 31-20, can be found via the Internet Archive. Urban Operations: Army Field Manual Volume 2 ... - Scribd
CLASSIFIED DOCUMENT FOUO (For Official Use Only)
FM 31-28 SPECIAL FORCES ADVANCED URBAN COMBAT
1 December 1999
CHAPTER 25: SPECIAL FORCES ADVANCED URBAN COMBAT TACTICS
The urban battlefield presents unique challenges to Special Forces (SF) teams. The densely populated environment, complex infrastructure, and abundance of hiding places make urban combat one of the most difficult and hazardous types of warfare. This chapter will discuss advanced urban combat tactics that SF teams may employ in high-risk, high-reward missions.
25-1. SPECIAL FORCES URBAN COMBAT PRINCIPLES
SF teams operating in urban environments must understand and apply the following principles:
25-2. URBAN TERRAIN ANALYSIS
Before conducting operations in an urban area, SF teams must conduct a thorough analysis of the terrain. This includes:
25-3. SPECIAL FORCES URBAN COMBAT TACTICS
SF teams may employ a variety of tactics in urban combat, including:
25-4. CLOSE QUARTERS BATTLE (CQB) TECHNIQUES
CQB is a critical component of urban combat. SF teams must be proficient in:
25-5. SPECIAL FORCES URBAN COMBAT EQUIPMENT
SF teams operating in urban environments may use a variety of specialized equipment, including:
25-6. URBAN COMBAT CASE STUDY
The following case study illustrates the application of advanced urban combat tactics by an SF team:
25-7. SUMMARY
Advanced urban combat tactics are essential for SF teams operating in high-risk, high-reward missions. By understanding and applying the principles of urban combat, SF teams can gain a significant advantage over their adversaries. If you want, I can:
DESTRUCTION NOTICE
This document is classified FOUO and shall be destroyed by incineration or other approved methods after reading. Electronic copies shall be purged from all systems.
END OF FILE
FM 31-28 Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) is a restricted U.S. Army field manual issued on 1 December 1999. It provides a standardized doctrinal framework for Special Forces (SF) detachments to conduct high-stakes operations in dense urban environments. Key Features of FM 31-28
Advanced Marksmanship: Focuses on precision shooting in confined spaces, including rapid target acquisition and specialized "surgical" shooting techniques required for urban environments.
Close Quarters Battle (CQB): Details micromanagement tactics for small squads, covering room clearing, hallway movement, and mechanical or explosive breaching of structures.
Urban Terrain Analysis: Breaks the urban battlespace into four critical levels: building, street, subterranean, and air, emphasizing the need to fight on all levels simultaneously.
Specialized Mission Sets: Provides guidance for core SF missions adapted for cities, such as Direct Action (DA), Counterterrorism, and Special Reconnaissance.
Operational Security: Designated as FOUO (For Official Use Only), it contains sensitive techniques, tactics, and procedures (TTPs) intended strictly for military personnel and commanders.
The manual was specifically designed to prepare Green Berets for the complexities of modern urban warfare, where mobility, elusiveness, and surgical precision are critical for mission success. 19th Special Forces Group Advanced Urban Combat Training
FM 31-28, dated 1 December 1999, establishes the foundational doctrine for the Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) program, training 12-man ODAs in high-intensity urban operations . The curriculum, often designated for official use, covers advanced Close Quarters Battle (CQB), breaching, specialized marksmanship, and insertion techniques . For an example of current training, view this DVIDS video. News - SFAUC Course - DVIDS
The Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat course is a three-week long training event that teaches a higher level of urban tactics. Video - Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat Course
FM 31-28 Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) is a restricted U.S. Army Field Manual that codifies the specialized tactics and techniques required for elite units to operate in complex city environments. Published on December 1, 1999, this manual marked a pivotal shift in Special Operations Forces (SOF) doctrine, moving away from broad unconventional warfare to high-intensity, precision urban operations. Historical Significance & Intent
The development of FM 31-28 was spearheaded in 1999 by then-Brigadier General Jerry Boykin. At the time, the U.S. Army recognized that future conflicts would increasingly be fought in "built-up areas" where technological advantages could be neutralized. The manual’s primary intent was to:
Establish Common Doctrine: Standardize urban combat training across all seven Special Forces Groups.
Boost Lethality: Act as a catalyst to raise the "Warrior Spirit" and tactical proficiency of Operational Detachment Alphas (ODAs).
Formalize SFAUC: Provide the Program of Instruction (POI) for the multi-week Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) course, which became mandatory for all active-duty SF teams. Core Components of the Manual
FM 31-28 serves as the tactical "bible" for the SFAUC course, focusing on three high-intensity areas:
Advanced Marksmanship: Unlike basic rifle qualification, this training emphasizes "flat range" weapons firing at close distances, rapid target acquisition, and discrimination between combatants and non-combatants.
Close Quarters Battle (CQB): The manual outlines the "micro-sociology" of room clearing, including how small teams enter, dominate, and secure individual rooms using speed, surprise, and violence of action.
Advanced Breaching: Instruction covers the art of bypassing security fences, windows, and reinforced doors using mechanical, ballistic, and explosive methods to gain entry to structures. Classification and Distribution
As indicated by the "FOUO" (For Official Use Only) designation in its title, FM 31-28 contains technical and operational information meant for U.S. Government agencies and their contractors only. It is typically restricted from public dissemination because it details specific "how-to" techniques for bypassing security and conducting lethal raids. Legacy in Modern Warfare
The principles established in the December 1999 edition of FM 31-28 were put to immediate use during the Global War on Terror (GWOT). The "Special Forcification" of urban tactics—where precision CQB skills originally reserved for elite units were eventually disseminated to regular infantry—can be traced back to the rigorous standards set by this manual and the SFAUC course.
Are you interested in how modern urban doctrine has evolved for regular infantry since the publication of this manual? SF Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) - Special Forces Training
FM 31-28 is the Army's SFAUC manual. See also Urban Warfare. specialforcestraining.info SF Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) - Special Forces Training FM 31-28, dated 1 December 1999, is a
FM 31-28, dated 1 December 1999, constitutes the foundational doctrinal manual for the U.S. Army Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) course, focusing on specialized tactics, techniques, and procedures for high-intensity urban environments. The FOUO-designated manual covers advanced marksmanship, CQB, live-fire shoothouse drills, and technical breaching methods to train Green Berets in complex, built-up areas. More information can be found at specialforcestraining.info SFAUC Course - DVIDS
FM 31-28 FOUNO: Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat, 1 December 1999
Summary:
This field manual (FM) provides doctrine for Special Forces (SF) operations in urban environments. The manual focuses on advanced urban combat techniques and tactics for SF teams operating in complex, urban terrain. The document is marked "FOUNO" (File or Folder Unit Officially Noted), indicating restricted distribution.
Key Points:
Distribution and Handling:
The "FOUNO" marking on this manual indicates that it contains sensitive information and should be handled and distributed with care. Access to this manual is restricted to personnel with a need-to-know clearance.
Relevance:
The doctrine outlined in this manual remains relevant today, as urban combat continues to be a critical aspect of modern military operations. The manual's focus on advanced techniques and tactics for SF teams operating in complex urban environments provides valuable insights for military professionals and scholars.
The publication you're referring to, , is the primary U.S. Army field manual for the Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) course.
First published around December 1, 1999, it was developed under the direction of BG Boykin to standardize urban combat training and doctrine across Special Forces groups. Key Manual Details
Classification: Historically marked as For Official Use Only (FOUO), meaning it was intended for government use and not approved for general public release. Under current Department of Defense policy, the FOUO marking is being phased out and replaced by Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
Purpose: It serves as the definitive guide for SFAUC, a multi-week course that Green Berets attend after completing the Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC).
Core Topics: The manual covers advanced tactical proficiency in high-intensity urban environments, including:
Close Quarter Combat (CQB): Room clearing and shoothouse drills.
Advanced Marksmanship: Rifle, pistol, and shotgun training focused on speed and accuracy.
Breaching: Mechanical and explosive entry techniques for doors, windows, and fences.
Urban Movement: Navigating dense areas, including rooftops and alleyways.
Specialized Techniques: Fast-roping, rappelling, and night operations. Where to Find More Information
While the full manual is generally restricted to official military channels, you can find unclassified overviews and training videos through several official Special Operations platforms:
(U) Intelligence Community Markings System Register ... - CDSE
Page 1. UNCLASSIFIED//FOUO. This document is not approved for public release. UNCLASSIFIED//FOUO.
Unlike conventional doctrine (surface/sub-surface), FM 31-28 divided the city into:
SF teams were taught to transition between these zones every 15-30 minutes to avoid pattern tracking.
