Information Dominance: Special Operations Forces in MOOTW.
Abstract
Three trends are shaping the relationship among Information Operations (IO), special operations forces (SOF), and Military Operations Other Than War (MOOTW). The first trend is the transition of the battlespace toward unconventional warfare with rising global terrorism, drug trafficking, and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). The second trend is the mounting pressure to further reduce Department of Defense (DoD) force structure while recapitalizing forces for the future. The third trend is the rapidly improving capability to wage 10 worldwide. This study examines the emerging role of IO relative to missions of the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) in MOOTW. The hypothesis of this paper contends 10, conducted by SOF, should play a more pivotal role in the capability of DoD to support our national objectives as complex MOOTW dominate conflict in the 21st Century. Strategy, policy, operational concepts, and organizational structure must adapt quickly to 'Information Age' challenges to counter evolving threats to our national security. In a rapidly changing world, S0F must be affordable yet technologically advanced to fully support emerging operational concepts and achieve critical information dominance for America in MOOTW.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 15, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA326756
Entities
People
- Steven A. Mccain
Organizations
- United States Army War College