Small Wars Journal

Testimony on United States Special Operations Command’s efforts to sustain the readiness (SASC)

  1. Blog
Fri, 04/29/2022 - 8:01am
The 90 minute hearing can be viewed at this link. https://www.armed-services.senate.gov/hearings/to-receive-testimony-on-united-states-special-operations-commands-efforts-to-sustain-the-readiness-of-special-operations-forces-and-transform-the-force-for-future-security-challenges
 
The commanders' statements can be accessed at the hotlinks below.
 
I would like to highlight three excerpts from LTG Braga's (CG, USASOC) statement.   The first (and second) and last priorities are not technologically or equipment  or weapons focused.  Unfortunately I fear congress is focused more on buying things than supporting the training, education, and intellectual development necessary for irregular warfare campaigning and strategic influence through information advantage.  I commend the USASOC CG for laying out these priorities and providing a clear and succinct vision for Army special operations.  I also think his vision is completely nested in the National Defense Strategy
 
There should be no confusion that Army special operations is focused on irregular warfare (across the spectrum of conflict to include in high end conflict).
 
 
USASOC supports the Joint Force worldwide through irregular warfare campaigning for
integrated deterrence, while preparing for high-end conflict. ARSOF is vital to the Nation
because of our capability to provide asymmetric options with tailorable solutions and a
unique mindset to prevail in any conflict.
 
USASOC is operationally minded with responsibilities to man, train, and equip formations.
We are organized to conduct irregular warfare across the continuum of campaigning,
crisis, and conflict. USASOC’s persistent forward presence, flexibility, and relationships
provide the Nation with enduring asymmetric advantages. 
 
The seven modernization priorities for USASOC are: Irregular Warfare, Information
Advantage, Multi-Domain Operations Interoperability, Next Generation Precision Effects,
Unmanned Systems/Robotics/Artificial Intelligence, Next Generation Mobility, and
Enhanced ARSOF Soldiers. We synchronize within these priorities while remaining a
bottom-up driven organization. We have men and women on the ground identifying
problems and providing requirements. Whether we lead or support, USASOC serves as
a catalyst for innovation through our continued experimentation and operational use. We
are deliberate with our selective disclosure, knowing our initiatives drive adversary
decision cycles. 
 
 

To receive testimony on United States Special Operations Command’s efforts to sustain the readiness of special operations forces and transform the force for future security challenges

Subcommittee: SUBCOMMITTEE ON EMERGING THREATS AND CAPABILITIESDate: Wednesday, April 27, 2022Time: 02:30 PMLocation: Russell SR-232Ahttps://www.armed-services.senate.gov/hearings/to-receive-testimony-on-united-states-special-operations-commands-efforts-to-sustain-the-readiness-of-special-operations-forces-and-transform-the-force-for-future-security-challenges

 
 
  1. Lieutenant General Jonathan P. Braga, USA
    Commanding General, United States Army Special Operations Command
     
  2. Lieutenant General James C. Slife, USAF
    Commander, Air Force Special Operations Command
     
  3. Rear Admiral Hugh W. Howard III, USN
    Commander, Naval Special Warfare Command
     
  4. Major General James F. Glynn, USMC
    Commander, United States Marine Forces Special Operations Command