Special operations

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Special operations are military operations that are considered "special" (that is, unconventional).

Special operations (SO) are typically performed independently or in conjunction with conventional military operations. The primary goal is to achieve a political or military objective where a conventional force requirement does not exist or might affect the overall strategic outcome. Special operations are usually conducted in a low-profile manner that typically aim to achieve the advantage of speed, surprise, and violence of action against an unsuspecting target. Special ops are typically carried out with limited numbers of highly trained personnel that are able to operate in all environments, utilize self-reliance, are able to easily adapt and overcome obstacles, and use unconventional combat skills and equipment to complete objectives. Special operations are usually implemented through specific or tailored intelligence.^[1]

[edit] Special Operations Forces & Special Forces

Special Operations Forces (SOF) is a term primarily used in the West. It is an “all encompassing” term that defines a nation’s specialized units. The term “Special Forces” is age old and used by countries around the world to describe their specialized unit(s). The United States, however, reserves the term “Special Forces” primarily for its Army special operations unit that specializes in unconventional warfare (UW)/Foreign Internal Defense FID) (commonly referred to as the “Green Berets”).^[2]

Examples of special operations include such operations such as reconnaissance/military intelligence, unconventional warfare, and counter-terrorism actions. Special operations are sometimes associated with unconventional warfare, counter-insurgency (operations against insurgents), operations against guerrillas or irregular forces, low-intensity operations, and foreign internal defense.

Special operations may be carried out by conventional forces but are often carried out by special operations forces (SOF), which are military units that are highly-trained and use special equipment, weapons, and tactics. They are sometimes referred to as "elite" forces, commandos, and special operators.

List of US Special Operations Forces