US Special-Operations Leaders Are Shifting To Confront Near-Peer Adversaries Like China And Russia

A US soldier assigned to Special Operations Command Africa observes wind conditions during a parachute jump near Stuttgart, Germany, September 21, 2016. US Army/VIS Jason Johnston  

Business Insider: US special-operations leaders are figuring out what skills to bring with them into 'the 5th modern era' of special ops 

* US special operators are shifting focus to great-power competition after 20 years of counterterrorism. 

* Special-ops leaders told lawmakers in April that in a new era they will focus on an old skill: supporting conventional forces. 

During a Senate hearing at the end of April, US special-operations leaders provided insight into how the US special-operations community is gearing up for future challenges. 

Near-peer adversaries — mainly China, but also Russia — are the primary threats to US national security, and the US military, including US Special Operations Command, is adjusting accordingly. 

When asked how the shift from counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations to great-power competition is affecting their planning and investment decisions, the commanders emphasized a shift to supporting operations.  

Read more ....  

WNU Editor: More confirmation that the Pentagon is focused on Russia and China.