AFSOF: A Unique Application of Aerospace Power

Abstract

Operations conducted by specially organized, trained, and equipped military and paramilitary forces to achieve military, political, economic, or psychological objectives by unconventional means in hostile, denied, or politically sensitive areas. These operations are conducted during peacetime competition, conflict, and war, independently or in coordination with operations of conventional, non-special operations forces. Politico-military considerations frequently shape special operations, requiring clandestine, covert, or low visibility techniques and oversight at the national level. Special operations differ from conventional operations in degree of physical and political risk, operational techniques, mode of employment, independence from friendly support, and dependence on detailed operational intelligence and indigenous assets.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 01, 1993
Accession Number
ADA262795

Entities

People

  • John A. Hill

Organizations

  • Air University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • Human Systems
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aerial Warfare
  • Air Force
  • Air Power
  • Combatant Commanders
  • Contingency Operations (Military)
  • Employment
  • International Organizations
  • Military Force Levels
  • Military Operations
  • Military Organizations
  • Military Personnel
  • Military Science
  • National Security
  • Personnel Management
  • Unified Combatant Commands
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • International Relations and European Studies
  • Irregular Warfare and Special Operations Cyberspace Operations against Adversarial Threats.

Technology Areas

  • Space