This thesis examines the use of cyberspace operations by special operations forces to address the threats the United States faces from adversaries. Special operations forces need to conduct cyberspace operations to sustain their battlefield advantage, compete with adversary capabilities, and protect their personnel. Special operations forces are not fully resourced to conduct tactical-level cyberspace operations. A questionnaire was created to assess how well special operations forces were equipped with the capabilities and authorities to conduct cyberspace operations on their own and with the Joint Service. The questionnaire was delivered to special operations units, United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) elements, United States Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) elements, and other cyberspace-related organizations in the Department of Defense (DOD). Analysis of the questionnaire concluded that several resourcing problems impede special operations forces from conducting cyberspace operations, including doctrinal problems at the strategic, operational, and tactical levels. Recommendations are made to address the key policy and resourcing constraints.

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Lieutenant Commander, United States Navy

Includes Supplementary Material