MISSION

PSYOP Soldiers use the latest in communication technology to disseminate critical information to allies and adversaries in combat situations. They are also key players in disaster relief operations, as they are often tasked with conveying life-saving information to citizens that are cut off from communication.

ATTRIBUTES OF A PSYOP SOLDIER

PSYOP Soldiers are selected for their intellectual ability, critical and analytical thinking skills, adaptability and mental resilience. They defend the United States by using the latest technology to influence communications.

PSYOP MISSIONS

PSYOP Soldiers are generally tasked with four types of missions: Military Information Support, Interagency/Governmental Support, Civil Authorities Information Support, and Military Deception.

MILITARY INFORMATION SUPPORT OPERATIONS (MISO)

Military Information Support Operations (MISO) are missions that convey selected information and indicators to foreign audiences. This information is intended to influence the emotions, motives, reasoning and behavior of foreign governments and citizens in a manner that is favorable to allied objectives.

INTERAGENCY/GOVERNMENTAL SUPPORT

This PSYOP mission involves shaping and influencing foreign decision-making and behaviors in support of United States objectives. Interagency and governmental support uses PSYOP Soldiers’ regional and language expertise, planning capability and media knowledge capabilities.

CIVIL AUTHORITIES INFORMATION SUPPORT (CAIS)

Similar to MISO operations, Civil Authorities Information Support missions are intended to aid civilian populations during disaster relief situations by disseminating critical information intended to support the rescue effort.

MILITARY DECEPTION (MILDEC)

Military Deception is any action intended to deliberately mislead enemy forces during a combat situation. This could include the deception of enemy paramilitary and extremist organizations.

UNIQUE CAPABILITIES OF PSYOP SOLDIERS

In addition to their overall mission, PSYOP Soldiers have individual capabilities that increase their effectiveness in the field.

Target Audience Analysis

PSYOP Soldiers possess a unique analytical capability. They bring an in-depth knowledge of culture, language, and religious values of varying populations. This knowledge is built through the Special Operations Language and Regional Studies course, and enhanced by native linguists and civilian regional experts.

Print

Much of the heavy print production is located at the media operation complex in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Deployable print systems can move production to multiple theaters.

Remote Broadcast

Deployable broadcast systems allow PSYOP Soldiers to broadcast commercial band, shortwave radio, and high frequency television transmissions. Broadcast products ranging from short information spots to continuous broadcast of news and entertainment are produced and disseminated by organic or host nation assets or other platforms.

Learn More about the History of Psychological Operations

Check out the Equipment PSYOP Soldiers use in the field