CNA issues new report on using special ops forces

The Center for Naval Analyses issued a new paper this week titled "The Role of Special Operations Forces in Global Competition."

In recent years, some nations have switched strategies in exerting their global influence, some of which could be interpreted as "ambiguous." CNA's report explores the role that SOF can serve today in global operations given this changing environment.

According to the report's abstract:

Nations have a variety of options for exerting influence, such as through diplomatic, military, or economic means. In recent years, some nations have shifted to more ambiguous activities for exerting global influence, in attempts to achieve benefits normally obtained through conventional war, but without triggering such a war. In this report, we explored a different way of thinking about these ambiguous activities and their implications, which suggested a need to shift U.S. focus away from preparing to win tomorrow and toward winning today. From this shift, we described a different approach to U.S. activities in such competitive environments. We also identified the unique qualities of U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF) as the military force having the best alignment with these different activities.

Read the full report here.