Echelon of Automation: The Future of Army Security Assistance

Discover the critical challenges units face on the ground and explore the bigger picture that often goes unnoticed. This article delves into a crucial yet overlooked topic: the information systems managing large-scale materiel aid transfers. Learn how these systems will shape the future of Irregular Warfare in large-scale combat operations.

Silhouette of soldier using drones for military combat or scouting operation.

Confident military coach pointing at tactics plan while addressing students.

Read Time: < 12 mins

The Three Pillars of Irregular Warfare Education

Irregular Warfare education is essential for ARSOF Soldiers, evolving through three pillars: institutional training, self-study, and experiential learning. This article explores the importance of these pillars in shaping effective Irregular Warfare strategies, addressing current educational gaps, and offering recommendations for integrating comprehensive learning in military operations.

By Paul Burton, SWCS senior instructor and retired Special Forces officer

Silhouette of soldier using drone for military combat or scouting operation.

Read Time: < 29 mins

Strategic Disruption: An Operational Framework for Irregular Warfare

This article explores the critical need for a structured operational framework for irregular warfare, highlighting the role of strategic disruption by special operations forces (SOF). It introduces strategic disruption as a solution to the ambiguity in irregular warfare, explaining its five pillars: resist, support, influence, understand, and target.

By Bryan L. King, National Defense University CISA student

Soldiers holding gps in hand and determines the location of coordinates.

Read Time: < 10 mins

Just War and Irregular Warfare

This article discusses the inadequacy of traditional Just War Theory in addressing ethical considerations in irregular warfare. Thompson proposes "jus tumultuarium bellum," a new ethical framework to guide partnerships with non-state actors, ensuring ethical criteria for resorting to force are met and considering the long-term viability of these actors.

By J. David Thompson, U.S. Army Civil Affairs officer

Africa countries outline map from space, globe planet earth from space, 3d illustration

Read Time: < 16 mins

Misconceptions about Irregular Warfare have Wasted U.S. Influence in the Sahel

This article discusses the failure of U.S. Army special operations forces (ARSOF) in the Sahel due to a one-dimensional approach to irregular warfare. Despite years of training and assistance, violent incidents in the region have increased significantly. The focus on security over essential governance tasks has undermined stability, leading to declining U.S. influence as local governments turn to Russia for support.

By Capt. Juan Quiroz, Civil Affairs Officer