Where Eagles Err: Contemporary Geopolitics and the Future of Western Special Operations

ABSTRACT

The study of special operations forces is one where the Anglo-American experience dominates the literature. This focus on Anglo-American operations, and specifically those operations deemed successful in a conventional sense, gives a distorted view of special operations forces structures, mission profiles, and capabilities. Furthermore, the current political context is eroding the conventional operational focus of special operations. This development means special operations forces will be deployed in roles that may be inconsistent with their doctrine and training, in the process contributing particular political dynamics that reverberate back and define their role.

KEYWORDS:

• Special operations forces (sof)
• unconventional warfare
• global sof
• counterinsurgency
• foreign internal defense

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The authors wish to thank Tanner Weiser for his deft help in researching, editing, and proofing this paper.

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).