The SFOD-A is comprised of a 12-man team that specializes in unconventional warfare and counter insurgency operations. Each member is cross-trained in various skill-sets that allow the group to operate outside of support range. Mission-sets include reconnaissance operations, raid operations, rescue operations, pathfinder operations and additional support tasks of the main division.

All team members attend the special force selection and assessment (SFAS) course. Those selected to move on to the special forces qualification (SFQC) to hone their technical skill-set and leadership capability.