Center for a New American Security

Special operations are the leading edge of America’s efforts against violent extremism around the world. In six years of the war on terror, U.S. special operators have led unconventional warfare efforts in Afghanistan and northern Iraq, supported conventional military operations in both countries, conducted foreign internal defense missions from the Philippines to the Horn of Africa, and conducted clandestine missions around the world. Policymakers have revaluated the strategic role of the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) giving it the responsibility to synchronize all military efforts in the war on terror.  The human and material resources for special operations have increased substantially and will continue to grow through the coming years.  The Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) commander has been elevated to the three-star level, the first Marine Corps Special Operations Command units are operational, endstrength increases have been programmed for Civil Affairs, PSYOPS, SEAL teams, and Army Special Forces. By 2013, USSOCOM’s topline will have increased three-fold over 2001 levels.

Fighting two wars, conducting global operations, and rapidly growing the force poses unprecedented challenges to the special operations community and USSOCOM.  To help inform the strategic and operational decisions ahead, the Center for a New American Security is conducting a multi-year study on the future of U.S. Special Operations. The study will provide an independent assessment of the tradeoffs that lay ahead and aims to inform the decisions about special operations made by senior leaders, both military and civilian.