The Transformation Of Special Operations Forces In Contemporary Conflict: Strategy, Missions, Organisation And Tactics

This paper is a study of the recent transformation in the employment and structure of Special Operations Forces. The author argues that these forces have moved from a marginal, albeit important, part of traditional conventional strategy towards being a central component of any government warfighting or national security response. Their transformation may be seen in the context of the missions they are called on to perform and the capabilities they must therefore possess. Recent changes to organisational structures, doctrine and tactics demonstrate high levels of innovation, and the combination of technology with traditionally high levels of resourcefulness and adaptability has resulted in some new approaches to the conduct of operations. Taken together, these changes may offer governments an increasingly viable and effective alternative to the conventional use of force by states.