Frogmen and pirates: the utility of special operations forces for small states against for-profit, illicit networks. Issue 3 (3rd July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Henningsen, Troels Burchall
• Is Part Of: Defence studies. Volume 21:Issue 3(2021)
• Page Start: 292
• Page End: 311
• Publication Date: 2021-07-03
• Subjects: Special operations forces -- small states -- counter-piracy -- criminal networks; Military policy -- Periodicals; International relations -- Periodicals; National security -- Periodicals; Defensive (Military science) -- Periodicals; 355.0305
• DOI: 10.1080/14702436.2021.1922082
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1470-2436

Abstract

ABSTRACT: What role can special operations forces (SOF) play against for-profit, illicit networks in operations with strict rules of engagement? How can small states utilize their SOF units to add value to a military strategy in cases where they take an active role in multinational operations? Based on in-depth interviews with members of maritime SOF units, commanding officers, and archival research, this article unearths the roles that Danish and Dutch maritime SOF units played against Somali piracy networks. Specifically, it analyses how SOF units were able to evolve their tactics, which allowed the international naval task forces to target the piracy networks' increasingly sophisticated operations. Moreover, the article discusses other potential ways SOF units can influence for-profit, illicit networks. The case study sheds light on an aspect of the utility of SOF often overlooked in the literature, namely the ability to use discriminate and proportional violence in operations that straddle the categories of peace and war. This almost mundane use of SOF units is of special interest in relation to small states, who may take on leadership roles if they are willing to engage in the development of the operational concepts.