Air Force Reserve Launches New Offensive Cyber Operations Squadron
The Air Force Reserve is making significant moves to strengthen its cyber and communications capabilities with two major organizational announcements set for implementation in 2025 and 2027.
Standing up in January, the 98th Cyberspace Operations Squadron will become the Air Force Reserve’s first dedicated offensive cyber operations unit. This newly activated squadron, based at Joint Base San Antonio under the 960th Cyberspace Wing, addresses a critical need identified by 16th Air Force operational commanders seeking enhanced cyber capabilities.
The initiative emerged from a strategic problem: highly trained offensive cyber operators transitioning from active duty have been leaving the force entirely, despite possessing specialized skills that took years and significant investment to develop. “We’ve invested all this money and training into them; they want to continue to do these cool missions, but for whatever reason they don’t do the full 20 years,” explained Col. Joshua Garrison, commander of the 960th Cyberspace Wing.
The 98th COS will operate as a lean, specialized unit of approximately 50 personnel, each arriving fully qualified from regular Air Force units. Unlike traditional Reserve pipelines, there is no entry-level pathway; the offensive nature of cyber operations requires multi-year development that only active-duty experience can provide.
The proof-of-concept phase proved successful. A detachment trial over 12 months demonstrated that former active-duty offensive operators could maintain full proficiency on a part-time basis. The Reserve established training and proficiency requirements, validated unit structure, and determined manning levels before securing formal approval this fall.
Complementing the cyber initiative, the Air Force Reserve will establish a fourth Combat Communications Squadron, planned to activate October 1, 2027, following completion of a basing study. The existing three Combat Communications Squadrons—the 23rd at Travis AFB, 35th at Tinker AFB, and 55th at Robins AFB—have proven their value as standalone, unit-equipped expeditionary forces capable of deploying globally within 72 hours.
The new squadron addresses coordination challenges created by odd-number rotations and scheduling conflicts with Air Combat Command. Starting with approximately 100 airmen and growing to roughly 150, it will mirror the structure and capabilities of existing units.
These Reserve expansions reflect broader recognition that maintaining surge capacity and specialized expertise requires innovative retention strategies. By leveraging experienced professionals seeking meaningful continued service, the Air Force Reserve strengthens its operational capabilities while maximizing return on substantial training investments.
Source ID: SRCE-2025-1764803086487-1133