The global security environment has become increasingly volatile, with growing demands for crisis response and great power competition preparedness. According to General Fenton, the demand for special operations forces (SOF) has surged by 35 to 40% over the past three years, reflecting their critical role in modern warfare.
SOCOM maintains a bias for action and a joint force focus, ensuring that U.S. special operations forces remain agile and ready for evolving threats. General Fenton stressed that complacency is not an option, underscoring the command’s commitment to maintaining a high level of operational effectiveness.
A key priority for SOCOM is the revival of the warrior ethos and reinforcing the profession of arms. Special operations forces undergo some of the most rigorous training in the Department of Defense, designed to hone their skills and ensure they are prepared for any mission.
Training within special operations is an ongoing process, focusing on repetition, precision, and adaptability. General Fenton emphasized that operators do not simply train once and consider themselves prepared, but rather, they practice relentlessly to perfect their skills.
Special operations personnel are known for their versatility and problem-solving abilities, making them uniquely suited for complex and high-risk missions. They possess technical proficiency, cultural awareness, language skills, and an innovative mindset, which enable them to operate effectively in challenging environments.
General Fenton highlighted the lessons learned from the war in Ukraine, particularly the use of unmanned systems, robotics, and mass production of strike drones. Ukraine’s success in using autonomous maritime and aerial systems against Russian forces has demonstrated the potential of these technologies in modern conflict.
Ukraine, despite not having a conventional navy, has managed to sink portions of the Russian fleet using autonomous systems and launches approximately 1,000 one-way strike drones daily. Fenton stressed the importance of achieving similar levels of production within the U.S. military, potentially in collaboration with allies and industry partners.
SOCOM operates with limited resources compared to its impact, making up only 3% of the joint force and less than 2% of the defense budget. General Fenton described the command as “tiny, lean, and mean,” emphasizing its efficiency in delivering strategic effects.
Lastly, he underscored the value of partnerships, advocating for stronger collaboration between special operations forces, industry, academia, and interagency partners. By working together, SOCOM aims to accelerate innovation and maintain its competitive edge in modern warfare.
As demand for special operations capabilities continues to rise, SOCOM remains focused on enhancing readiness, leveraging emerging technologies, and ensuring that U.S. special forces remain at the forefront of global security efforts.
Source: U.S. Department of Defense.
