(Knowledge Wins) SOF Civil Affairs in Modern Conflict

Today we conclude our podcast with Major Travis Clemens, a Civil Affairs Company Commander, discussing his article about Special Operations Forces and Civil Affairs in Great Power Competition. MAJ Clemens opens with discussing the modern forms of Armed Conflict, such as foreign sponsored insurgencies or the construction of military infrastructure in politically disputed locations. A key theme is how 21st century conflict is often, but not always, defined by asymmetrical clashes between the Great Powers in lieu of conventional conflict. Civil Affairs teams must compete with hostile foreign powers by combating their social, economic and political pressures against the populace in a third country.