Special Operations Research Program

CNA’s analyses of special operations forces are coordinated by the Special Operations Research Program. Our experts bring a thorough understanding of operations to complex issues facing Navy SEALs, Marine Raiders and other special ops forces. These include analyses of special operations exercises and training, workforce management, infrastructure, support, acquisition, resource and costs, as well as regional security analysis.

Why Special Operations?

Dr. Jonathan Schroden explains why special operations forces are uniquely suited to difficult policy problems requiring unorthodox solutions. The answer lies in the consideration of risk.

Why Special Operations? A Risk-Based Theory

Why Are Special Operations Ever Conducted?

Social Media Bots: Implications for Special Operations Forces

CNA analysts describe the opportunities and risks for special operations forces posed by social media bots and their disinformation activities: distributing, amplifying, distorting, hijacking, flooding and fracturing.

A Special Study Influences Special Operations

U.S. Marine Forces Special Operations Command asked CNA to analyze whether they needed to create new occupational specialties. Dr. Michelle Dolfini-Reed showed an improved return on investment by employing specialist Raiders rather than infantry Marines in special operations.

New Leadership for a New Generation

While some aspects of US Special Operations Forces’ leadership approach align well with what younger generations expect, critical gaps remain. Researchers recommend ways to address this issue so that SOF can best develop its future leaders.

Next Generation Leadership and Implications for Special Operations Forces

NEW LEADERSHIP FOR A NEW GENERATION

articles

Do the SEALs Have a Culture Problem or an OPTEMPO Problem?

reports

videos

Jonathon Schroden's testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee’s Hearing Senate Armed Services Committee’s hearing on the role of special operations forces in supporting the National Defense Strategy

Explore more

Most of the work products for the Special Operations Research Program are classified or have distribution limited to the Department of Defense. Visitors with appropriate credentials can find these reports on the CNA SIPR site.

Contact

Megan Katt , Director

KattM@cna.org