SOF/Convention Force Light Footprint Interdependence in Asia and Beyond

Abstract

Full spectrum engagement under a Light Footprint strategy using lessons learned from Afghanistan can shape and influence new threats to security that have already emerged around the globe as the United States completes the withdrawal from its 12-year commitment to major operations. This engagement can be accomplished on a small-scale, short of war, and at a lower cost than seen in Afghanistan and Iraq. Through the complimentary effects of direct and indirect approaches, referred to as surgical strike and special warfare respectively within the context of the SOF Light Footprint approach, measured application of US Military and Interagency assets in Security Force Assistance and Security Sector Reform can continue to set the conditions for governance, development, and security that deny insurgents and Violent Extremist Organizations the environment they need to grow and project their influence. As was done in conflict by highly enabled interdependent SOF/Conventional Forces, so too can it be done in peacetime.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 01, 2013
Accession Number
ADA592756

Entities

People

  • William J. Carty Jr.

Organizations

  • Tufts University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • Cyber
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Afghanistan Conflict
  • Asia
  • Employment
  • International Law
  • International Organizations
  • Lessons Learned
  • Military Science
  • National Security
  • Personnel Management
  • Security
  • Special Operations Forces
  • Terrorism
  • Terrorists
  • United States
  • United States Special Operations Command
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Irregular Warfare and Special Operations Cyberspace Operations against Adversarial Threats.
  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.
  • Political Violence and Terrorism Studies.