What’s the Difference Between SEAL Team 6 and Delta Force?

The United States Army Delta Force, officially known as the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta (1st SFOD-D), and the United States Navy SEAL Team 6, officially designated as the Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU), are two of the most elite and secretive special operations units in the U.S. military. While both units are highly trained and capable of executing a wide range of specialized missions, there are some key differences between them:

1. Branch of Service:
   • Delta Force: Delta Force is a special operations unit of the United States Army, falling under the U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC).
   • SEAL Team 6 (DEVGRU): SEAL Team 6 is a component of the United States Navy, specifically under the Naval Special Warfare Command (NSWC).

2. Primary Mission Focus:

1. • Delta Force: Delta Force’s primary mission focus is on counterterrorism, direct action, and special reconnaissance.
   • SEAL Team 6 (DEVGRU): SEAL Team 6’s primary mission focus is also counterterrorism and direct action, with a specialization in maritime operations. They are particularly known for their proficiency in maritime counterterrorism, such as ship takedowns and waterborne operations.

     

     #3 Operational Environment

     • Delta Force: Delta Force is known for its versatility and can operate in a variety of environments, including urban, desert, and jungle environments.
     • SEAL Team 6 (DEVGRU): DEVGRU specializes in maritime environments and is often involved in maritime counterterrorism operations.
       Recruitment and Selection:
       • Delta Force: Candidates for Delta Force are typically selected from the U.S. Army’s Special Forces (Green Berets) and other special operations units. They undergo a rigorous selection process known as the Delta Force Assessment and Selection (DFAS) course.
       • SEAL Team 6 (DEVGRU): Candidates for DEVGRU are primarily drawn from the U.S. Navy SEAL community. They undergo a demanding selection process, often referred to as “Green Team” training.
     • Size and Organization:
       • Delta Force: The size and organization of Delta Force are classified, but it is believed to consist of multiple squadrons with specialized capabilities.
       • SEAL Team 6 (DEVGRU): DEVGRU is organized into multiple assault squadrons, each with its own specialties and missions.
     • Operational Secrecy:
       • Delta Force: Delta Force’s missions and activities are highly classified, and details are rarely disclosed to the public.
       • SEAL Team 6 (DEVGRU): DEVGRU’s operations are also highly classified, and they have been involved in some of the most secretive and high-profile missions, such as the raid that led to the death of Osama bin Laden in 2011.
     • Cultural and Historical Differences:
       • Delta Force: Delta Force has its roots in the U.S. Army and shares some similarities with Army Special Forces (Green Berets).
       • SEAL Team 6 (DEVGRU): DEVGRU is part of the U.S. Navy’s SEAL community, and it has its own unique culture and traditions within the Navy’s special operations community.

Both Delta Force and SEAL Team 6 are renowned for their professionalism, training, and operational capabilities, and they work closely together on joint special operations missions when necessary. While they have distinct missions and operational environments, they are united by their commitment to excellence and their role as two of the most elite special operations units in the world.