Special Operations Forces

The Special Operations Command (SOCOM) was established to oversee the training, doctrine, and equipping of all U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF). A key objective in establishing a unified command was to ensure that the Special Operations Forces of the military services would be equipped with the right weapon systems to carry out their unique missions. The SOCOM commander was granted the authority to independently develop, acquire, and field specialized equipment. This “special operations forces-peculiar” equipment may be newly created or standard equipment modified to meet SOF needs, but may not duplicate equipment provided from the other military services. This new book presents important materials concerning the Special Forces which have become an important strike force due to the changing face of military challenges. "The Special Operations Command (SOCOM) was established to oversee the training, doctrine, and equipping of all U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF). A key objective in establishing a unified command was to ensure that the Special Operations Forces of the military services would be equipped with the right weapon systems to carry out their unique missions ... This new book presents important materials concerning the Special Forces which have become an important strike force due to the changing face of military challenges"--Preface