U.S. Special Operations Forces’ Expanded Roles and Innovations Since 9/11

The expanded roles of U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF) since September 11, 2001, emphasizing their adaptability across various global conflicts and their innovation in irregular warfare campaigns. He highlights the need for tailored approaches in different contexts, outlining three specific methods: “probe and pick,” “the middle way,” and “the deep commit.” These strategies reflect the versatility and strategic importance of SOF in addressing modern security challenges worldwide.
  

Key Points 

1. Expanding Roles of Special Operations Forces: Since 9/11, the roles of U.S. SOF have significantly grown, adapting to diverse global challenges, including countering Russian aggression, deterring Chinese expansion, and combating violent extremism.
2. Irregular Warfare Campaigns: SOF are increasingly developing irregular warfare campaigns to counter adversaries’ unconventional strategies. These campaigns are designed to leverage U.S. strengths and adapt to the evolving nature of global conflicts.
3. Innovative Operational Methods: Petit outlines three operational methods: “probe and pick” for engaging in uncertain environments with limited U.S. interest; “the middle way,” involving rotational deployments guided by strategic objectives; and “the deep commit” for high-impact, focused operations.
4. Challenges and Adjustments: The article emphasizes the need for creativity and adaptation in employing SOF, warning against the one-size-fits-all approach and highlighting the importance of context-specific strategies.
5. Strategic Impact of SOF: The versatility and effectiveness of SOF in irregular campaigns are highlighted as crucial for influencing global security dynamics and providing the U.S. with strategic options in complex geopolitical scenarios.

Source: https://warontherocks.com/2023/11/u-s-special-operations-and-the-shadowy-promise-of-irregular-campaigns/