The Role of Special Operations Forces in Counter-Narcotic Operations
Abstract
This thesis deals with the suitability of using Army Special Operations Forces in a counter-narcotics role. It describes briefly, the legislative reforms which have authorized increased US military involvement in a law enforcement role. It also describes the present drug epidemic in the US and in the area referred to as the Andean Ridge. A presentation of information is provided as to the social, political, and economic, both positive and negative, that the cultivation of coca and cocaine production has had in the countries of Peru, Bolivia and Colombia. The thesis describes the present structure of US army Special Operations Forces and their capabilities. It recommends missions for each member of the SOF community to perform. Using the CARVER Target Analysis system, the thesis presents the drug trafficking organizations in terms of vulnerabilities that can be exploited by SOF. The thesis concludes that the present missions of SOF are compatible with the increased military counter- narcotic missions. The unique capabilities of SOF, when combined with present law enforcement assets will greatly enhance the US capability to interdict illegal narcotics. Keywords: Special Operations Forces; Counter-narcotics; Drug interdiction; Drug enforcement; Andean Ridge; Cocaine.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA227351
Entities
People
- Mark A. Haselton
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College