DA3880 History of Special Operations

What constitutes a "special" operation? This course considers special operations in a historical context, with emphasis given to their impact on war outcomes, the necessary conditions for their success, and the patterns of civil-military relations that emerge when elite forces are formed. Successes and failures in air, ground, and naval actions are equally considered. Historical studies from World War II to the present will provide the principle means of analysis to gain insights into the theory, practice, and effects of special operations and irregular warfare. Prerequisite: None.

Lecture Hours

4

Lab Hours

0