Accession Number:

ADA235838

Title:

USSOCOM Support for Counter Narcotics

Descriptive Note:

Final rept.

Corporate Author:

ARMY WAR COLL CARLISLE BARRACKS PA

Personal Author(s):

• Trumble, Roy R.

Report Date:

1991-03-21

Pagination or Media Count:

41.0

Abstract:

The Department of Defense has assumed a greater role in efforts to fight the drug war. USSOCOM elements play a major role in these operations. Yet there still is neither clearly defined military strategy nor adequate operationalization of the efforts in the fields. An evaluation of past and present roles that Special Operations Forces play in the war against drugs reveals a relatively ineffective campaign. Considering current SOF doctrine and organization, legal and ethical parameters, and DoD guidance, there are major changes required to enhance effectiveness of law enforcement and interdiction, to fulfill the command-and-control requirements and clarify the mission. USSOCOM has the capacity to take on a much greater role than it now shoulders. If USSOCOM is to participate in the war on drugs, then it must become more than an equipment and personnel pool for civilian law enforcement. It must fight to win.

Descriptors:

• *WARFARE
• *INTERDICTION
• *LAW ENFORCEMENT
• *DRUGS
• DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
• MILITARY STRATEGY
• SPECIAL FORCES

Subject Categories:

• Sociology and Law
• Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE