The unique character of U.S. special operations is based on highly skilled personnel and close cooperation between ground assault teams and special operations aviation. A notable example is the cooperation between the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta of the U.S. Army, better known as Delta Force, and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) Night Stalkers.
Delta Force consists of highly trained soldiers with extensive combat experience and operates under the direct authority of the U.S. Department of Defense. The 160th SOAR is a specialised U.S. Army aviation unit responsible for troop insertion, direct fire support, and battlefield evacuation, including night operations and missions in difficult weather conditions.
The regiment operates various aircraft, including the MH-6 Little Bird, which is well suited for rapid operations in confined urban environments. It can land directly on city streets and operate in extremely tight spaces, even hovering just centimetres from buildings.
A notable example of joint operations by Delta Force and the 160th SOAR was the Battle of Mogadishu on 3–4 October 1993, conducted as part of Operation Gothic Serpent.