The U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is shifting its focus from countering terrorism and violent extremism to integrated deterrence, which demands new technology and a return to pre-Global War on Terrorism force roles. This was highlighted by Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Francis Donovan at the Fed Supernova conference in Austin.
  

Key Points: 

1. The mission of countering violent extremist groups for the Special Operations Forces (SOF) has decreased from 80% to 20%. Integrated deterrence now comprises 60% of SOF’s focus.
2. SOF needs advancements in technology areas such as collaborative autonomy, contested communications, maneuver in contested environments, and next-generation intelligence, reconnaissance, and surveillance.
3. Restructuring is necessary, with specialized force units like SEALs, Green Berets, and MARSOC returning to their traditional specialties rather than similar roles.
4. Modern technology must support and facilitate operations in synchronization, enabling the seamless transfer of data and intelligence between forces and commanders.
5. Budget constraints have affected SOCOM, with a flat budget for three years leading to reduced buying power. Lt. Gen. Donovan stresses the need for technology to genuinely benefit operations, rather than complicating them.

Source: https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2023/8/25/socom-needs-new-tech-old-approaches-vice-commander-says