Special Operations Forces (SOF): An Integral Part of the Theater Operating System

reportActive / Technical Report | Accession Number: ADA279634 | Open PDF

Abstract:

Special Operations Forces SOF, if properly integrated, can significantly influence the outcome of a military campaign. However, unless commanders and planners understand SOF capabilities and limitations, and as importantly, how SOF fits into the operational environment, this potential force multiplier may be misused. The purpose of this paper is to outline the Theater Operating System TOS and how SOF should be integrated into that system. It does not restate SOF related doctrine but refers the reader to the various service component manuals for a more detailed discussion. Instead, its primary focus is on how the commander should think in terms of employing SOF from an operational perspective. Operation Desert ShieldDesert Storm is used to illustrate how one CINC was able to fully integrate SOF into his campaign. Special Operations ForcesSOF, Operational maneuver, Theater operating system, Operational fires, Operations Desert ShieldDesert Storm, Command and control

Author(s):
Perkins, Christopher S.
Author Organization(s):
NAVAL WAR COLL NEWPORT RI DEPT OF OPERATIONS
Descriptive Note:
Final rept.
Supplementary Note:
DOI: 10.21236/ADA279634
Pagination:
0032

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release

RECORD

Collection: TR
Identifying Numbers
Monitor Series:
NWC/DO
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_3_Force Application; JCA_3.1_Maneuver; JCA_3.1.1_Maneuver to Engage; JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_1_Force Support; JCA_3.1.2_Maneuver to Insert; JCA_3.2_Engagement; JCA_3.2.1_Kinetic Means; JCA_1.1_Force Management; JCA_5.2_Understand; JCA_8_Building Partnerships; JCA_8.1_Communicate; JCA_7_Protection; JCA_8.1.3_Influence Adversary and Competitor Audiences; JCA_1.2_Force Preparation; JCA_2_Battlespace Awareness; JCA_5.1_Organize; JCA_5.2.2_Develop Knowledge and Situational Awareness; JCA_2.1_Planning and Direction; JCA_5.1.1_Establish and Maintain Unity of Effort with Mission Partners; JCA_5.5_Direct
Modernization Areas:
Fully Networked C3
Communities of Interest:
Weapons Technologies
Descriptor(s):
*COMMAND AND CONTROL SYSTEMS, *SPECIAL FORCES, CONTROL, THEATER LEVEL OPERATIONS, ENVIRONMENTS, MILITARY DOCTRINE, LIMITATIONS, OPERATION, MANEUVERS
Field(s)/Group(s):
Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics, Command, Control and Communications Systems
Keyword(s):
DESERT SHIELD OPERATION, DESERT STORM OPERATION
Report Date:
1994 Feb 08