Special Forces Mounted Detachments are prepared to infiltrate and operate in low or medium intensity conflicts over terrain consisting of high deserts with rugged mountains to low deserts with sand dunes and salt marshes. The capability of these detachments to travel unassisted long distances in enemy rear areas gives the Joint Forces Commander/Commander Joint Special Operations Task Force an effective tool.

Mounted detachments must develop the following capabilities:

- Operate and communicate over long distances.

- Operate effectively and continually in a hostile air environment that may severely limit or prevent air support.

- Operate in rugged terrain, both on and off road.

- Make on-site repairs on all equipment using the skills of the detachment members and on- board tools and parts.