Language Familiarization and Area Studies Team (LFAST)

The Language Familiarization and Area Studies Team (LFAST) Program provides language and culture familiarization instruction to deploying military units.

To request LFAST training, an interested unit should specify the level of required language proficiency, the particular operational language domain, and how much time can be devoted to training. The LFAST team will then develop and deliver a curriculum that is designed to meet those needs. This kind of familiarization training has been widely recognized as a force-multiplier for deployed units because it facilitates improved situational awareness in foreign cultures and improves the fostering of rapport with host-nation communities, both of which are essential for ensuring mission success.

The LFAST Program currently has 27 instructors on staff, as well as a full-time liaison at Fort Riley, Kansas. These instructors deploy on temporary duty throughout the world to provide language familiarization instruction primarily in the Iraqi Dialect, Persian-Afghan (Dari), and Pashto; however, familiarization can also be taught in other languages as requested, based on the temporary availability of instructors from other programs and schools, as well as with contractor support, if required. Since FY03, more than 100,000 service members have attended LFAST language courses.

For more information contact the LFAST Program Manager at (831) 242-6216 or send written inquiries to:

LFAST ProgramDirectorate of Continuing Education, DLIFLC
DoD Center Monterey Bay
400 Gigling Road
Seaside, CA 93955