Executive Summary

We assess that the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) is adapting to the great power competition between the United States, China, and Russia by shifting its mission priorities from counterterrorism to strategic competition with major powers. This change requires a re-orientation of Special Operations Forces (SOF) capabilities, strategies, and plans. Additionally, this change occurs amid recurring and new challenges in developing sustainable strategic guidance and resource allocation.

Images Sourced From: Staff Sgt. Travis Fontane, Spc. Sara Wakai, Sgt. Patrik Orcutt,