ABSTRACT
Special operations forces (SOF) are not entirely unique phenomena; they do not represent a complete military novelty. This chapter explains why SOF has moved from a position of tactical marginality to operational and even strategic centrality. There is little doubt that SOF possess special capabilities which differentiate them from regular forces. They are highly selected and have developed heightened forms of collective expertise in a number of areas. The definition of SOF is once again not simply capabilities, but the location of the force in a transnational military network. In short, SOF offers the most effective way for financially constrained states to fight hybrid wars, veiled from the attention of the media and international rights organizations. The SOF of each Western nation has a place in this hierarchy, and any aspirant force has to earn its place in it. The heavy investment in SOF suggests that they are likely to execute the missions which they are given with competence.
