It would quickly become involved in a number of special operations, including the conflict in the Persian Gulf, Panama, Desert Shield as well as Storm to name only a few. Named after the 158th Battalion where the bulk of the pilots came from, they maintained the Screaming Eagles unit patch of the 101st Airborne Division. Following the first class’s completion of the course a new task force was formed: Task Force 158. Pilots from various battalions were selected to go to highly specialized combat and night flying courses. The Army turned to the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault)’s Aviation Group due to their proven track record and diverse capabilities. Among the many new groups formed in this restructuring was the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment. This put pressure on the creation of aerial combat groups dedicated to special operations. ( Source) Mismanagement of air power, as well as lack of coordination between operational groups, were particular short-fallings. This operation forced the United States to rethink its design and usage of special operations forces. The creation of the 160th truly took shape in the aftermath of Operation Eagle Claw. ( Source) US Air Force Special Tactics Operators conduct helocast training with a MH-47G Chinook from the 160th SOAR. Rapid response is a critical aspect of their doctrine, being a quick response force that supports special operations. ( Source) Within this discipline, the Night Stalkers earn their namesake from proficiency in night operations, and low-altitude operations that let them remain undetected until the exact right moment. The 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment has the primary task of being an extremely rapid aerial response force, specializing in working alongside special operations forces and operating in extremely dangerous situations. The Distinctive Unit Insignia of the 160th.

Excel nightime pilot logbook