U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is actively incorporating lessons from the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza to enhance its strategic approach towards “integrated deterrence” globally.
Army Gen. Bryan Fenton, commander of SOCOM, has recently highlighted the command’s keen interest in learning from the electronic warfare environments observed in Ukraine and the unique challenges of subterranean and tunnel warfare evident in Gaza. These insights are deemed crucial for developing future tactics, techniques, and procedures that could be applied across various theaters of operations, emphasizing the importance of adapting to complex and contested environments.
In addition, SOCOM is focusing on the strategic use of open-source intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), noting the significant advantages and risks associated with communication in modern conflicts. Gen. Fenton pointed out the challenge of balancing quality and quantity in electronic warfare, citing Ukraine’s struggle against Russia’s overwhelming electronic capabilities. The command is exploring advancements in artificial intelligence and autonomous systems to enhance decision-making and operational effectiveness against evolving threats, such as unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
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