(IWI) The Future of Army Special Operations - LTG Braga and P.W. Singer
Jun 6, 2023
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USASOC Commander LTG Braga and author P.W. Singer discuss the future of Army Special Operations, exploring future threats, the importance of history, necessary skills and capabilities, and the significance of staying informed. They also emphasize the value of unity, and express gratitude for the guests and provide podcast information.
Partnerships and relationships with allies provide multiple benefits in irregular warfare, including better solutions, efficient communication, and access to geographical proximity and intelligence sharing.
USASOC prioritizes innovation and adaptation, embracing new technologies, experimenting with organizational changes, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
The soft-space-cyber triad leverages the convergence of special operations, space, and cyber capabilities, integrating technology, human intelligence, and human relationships to enhance operational effectiveness and provide flexible deterrent response options.
Deep dives
The value of partnerships and relationships with allies in irregular warfare
Partnerships and relationships with allies provide multiple benefits in irregular warfare. Collaborating with different viewpoints and experiences leads to better solutions and more effective strategies. The trust and networks established with partner forces allow for efficient communication and coordination, accelerating operations. Additionally, allies offer geographical proximity and access, facilitating operations and intelligence sharing. The value of partnerships lies not only in filling capability gaps, but also in the diffusion of ideas and the cultivation of long-lasting relationships that contribute to deterrence and stability.
Innovation and adaptation in U.S. Army Special Operations Command
USASOC prioritizes innovation and adaptation to maintain a comparative advantage. This entails embracing new technologies, experimenting with organizational changes, and developing a creative mindset. The ability to quickly contract and utilize commercial off-the-shelf technology allows for rapid innovation. Lessons learned from operational experiences and partnerships with international forces contribute to the dynamic evolution of capabilities. USASOC's focus on innovation extends to professional education and fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
The soft-space-cyber triad and the future of warfare
The soft-space-cyber triad represents a modern-day strategic concept that leverages the convergence of special operations, space, and cyber capabilities. This triad provides policymakers with flexible deterrent response options that span the spectrum of conflict. USASOC recognizes the interconnectedness of these domains and aims to integrate technology, human intelligence, and human relationships to enhance operational effectiveness. Leveraging software and prioritizing adaptation and communication are crucial aspects of harnessing the advantages offered by the triad.
Drawing insights from history in preparing for the future
Drawing insights from history is essential in preparing for the future of irregular warfare. USASOC benefits from its rich history, lessons learned, and experiences that inform its culture and doctrine. Understanding past campaigns, partnerships, and operational challenges provides valuable context for shaping future strategies and tactics. Incorporating historical perspectives into training, decision-making, and doctrine development ensures that USASOC remains flexible, adaptive, and effective in addressing future irregular warfare challenges.
The role of USASOC in deterrence and a regular warfare
USASOC plays a vital role in deterrence by conducting irregular warfare campaigns, influencing relevant populations, and contributing to strategic competition. Its capabilities and expertise extend beyond traditional kinetic operations, incorporating asymmetric approaches, information warfare, and the human domain. As part of the larger joint force, USASOC prioritizes unity of effort, leveraging partnerships, and providing flexible deterrent response options. To effectively contribute to deterrence and irregular warfare, USASOC must continue to focus on innovation, adaptation, and collaboration with allies and partners.
Crossover episode from the Irregular Warfare Initiative where the USASOC Commander LTG Braga, and author P.W. Singer discuss the future of Army Special Operations within the future operating environment of Multi-Domain Operations.
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