AFSOC embraces training opportunities in Caribbean amid rising tensions
AFSOC commander Lt. Gen. Michael Conley briefed reporters on his near-term priorities.
By
Brandi Vincent
September 25, 2025
NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. — Air Force Special Operations Command leaders are moving to deploy new technologies and diversify exercise locations — including around the Caribbean — as they seek to drill forces in scenarios and environments similar to those where they may be called on to fight in the future.
“To get into places that we have not traditionally had a robust training presence — it’s all an opportunity for me. We are very good at the [U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Central Command] operations. When we get into new theaters and train in new places, it’s all goodness for us,” AFSOC commander Lt. Gen. Michael Conley told reporters on Wednesday.
During a media roundtable at AFA’s Air, Space and Cyber conference, Conley shared new details about the component command’s near-term plans for modernization and how it’s supporting contemporary military operations.
“We have to look into the future, but still be actively engaged in the other things going on in the world. So, I don’t have the luxury to just pick one theater to look at. I need men and women that we send out in harm’s way to be fully trained and ready to go into the fight that’s going on tonight — wherever that is,” he said.
https://defensescoop.com/2025/09/25/afsoc-training-caribbean-southcom/
