What is the purpose of Air Force regulation AFI16-1301 SURVIVAL, EVASION, RESISTANCE, AND ESCAPE (SERE) PROGRAM?
The purpose of this regulation is to establish policies and procedures for the training, conduct, and support of Air Force personnel involved in or affected by survival, evasion, resistance, and escape missions.

Who does AFI16-1301 apply to?
This regulation applies to all Air Force active duty, reserve, and guard personnel, as well as civilians and contractors participating in, supporting, or affected by SERE operations.

What does the term "Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape" mean?
Survival refers to the skills necessary to endure in hostile environments. Evasion refers to avoiding capture in combat scenarios. Resistance refers to military personnel withstanding enemy exploitation. Escape refers to the act of evading captivity or recovering from it.

What are the objectives of the SERE training program?
The objectives of the SERE training program are to enhance mission success by preparing Air Force personnel to survive, evade, resist, and escape during peacetime and combat operations, and to prevent, mitigate, and recover from isolated personnel incidents.

How often is SERE training required?
Initial SERE training is mandatory for all personnel subject to SERE mission requirements. Follow-on refresher training, which may vary in frequency, is required to maintain proficiency based on the individual's mission or duty assignment.

Can personnel be exempt from SERE training?
The SERE training program allows for exemptions for personnel holding specific positions or in limited circumstances where it is deemed impractical or counterproductive to conduct the training.

What are the responsibilities of unit commanders regarding the SERE program?
Unit commanders are responsible for ensuring that eligible personnel in their units are trained, equipped, and supported in accordance with this regulation. They must also appoint qualified instructors and maintain accurate training records.

How is the SERE training conducted?
SERE training consists of classroom instruction, hands-on training, escape and evasion scenarios, captivity simulations, and survival exercises. It may also include scenario-based training using simulated hostile personnel, equipment, and environments.

Can SERE training be conducted by non-Air Force personnel?
SERE training can be conducted by non-Air Force personnel if they meet the qualification requirements specified in the regulation and are designated as instructors by the appropriate authority.