U.S. special operations commanders are facing challenges as they aim to enhance their teams with more technology experts while also reducing their total forces by about 5,000 troops over the next five years. This balancing act is prompting a broader restructuring of the commando units, which are frequently deployed for risky counterterrorism missions and other sensitive operations worldwide.
The restructuring plans are being shaped by the lessons learned from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The U.S. Army Special Operations Command, which will bear most of the personnel cuts, is considering enlarging its Green Beret teams — typically consisting of around 12 members — to include individuals with specialized technical skills.
One idea is to include software experts who can quickly reprogram drones and other technical gear in the field.
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Similar adjustments may also affect all branches of the military.
General Bryan Fenton, commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, noted that smaller units might be bolstered with additional expertise. This could involve personnel like Air Force pilots, Navy ship operators, cryptologists, or cyber specialists, as modern battlefields become more complex and reliant on advanced technology.
Reflecting on the situation, General Fenton highlighted that the U.S. is drawing valuable insights from its involvement in Ukraine, including the operations of special forces in the region, despite not having deployed ground troops there.
