The Strategic Rationale for Special Operations Forces Employment

Abstract

This study examines the potential use of Special Operations Forces (SOF) in support of the strategic concept of Peacetime Engagement (PE). This thesis asserts that a Triad of U.S. Army SOF which includes Special Forces, Civil Affairs, and Psychological Operations, supported by other service SOF are best suited to the roles demanded in low-intensity conflict where PE takes place. PE's two phases of counteracting violence and nation-building are examined in the context of the continent of Africa. SOF potential in support of PE is examined in the light of their characteristics and capabilities. The suggestion is made that because the U.S. is unable to develop a coherent and long-range strategy for dealing with the potential threats of LIC - SOF can serve as a viable surrogate for that of a strategy.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 07, 1991
Accession Number
ADB157746

Entities

People

  • Robert B. Adolph Jr.

Organizations

  • United States Army Command and General Staff College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • C4I
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Contingency Operations (Military)
  • Department Of State
  • Employment
  • Governments
  • International Law
  • Military Organizations
  • Military Science
  • National Politics
  • National Security
  • Personnel Management
  • Political Systems
  • Special Operations Forces
  • Students
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Irregular Warfare and Special Operations Cyberspace Operations against Adversarial Threats.
  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.
  • Systems Analysis and Design