Join Professor Martin Kitson, an expert in Irregular Warfare from the Netherlands Defence Academy, and Major General Ron Smits, former Commander of Netherlands Special Operations, as they discuss the pivotal role of Special Operations Forces in modern influence activities. They explore the shift from counterterrorism to influence operations, the necessity of cultural understanding, and the importance of diverse skill sets. The conversation dives into the challenges SOF face in a hybrid warfare landscape, addressing the intricate balance of local engagement and global security demands.