In response to the need for enhanced capabilities and the lessons learned from the war in Ukraine, U.S. special operations commanders are facing the challenge of incorporating more high-tech experts into their ranks while reducing overall forces by approximately 5,000 troops over the next five years. These conflicting pressures have prompted a wider restructuring of commando teams, which are frequently deployed for high-risk counterterrorism missions and other sensitive operations across the globe. The changes being considered are influenced by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, drawing on the experiences of British special operations forces in the region.

The U.S. Army Special Operations Command, which will bear the brunt of the personnel cuts, is exploring plans to expand the size of its Green Beret teams, usually consisting of around 12 members, to include individuals with specialized technical abilities. One potential addition could be computer software experts who can reprogram drones and other technical equipment on the fly. These changes could have a ripple effect across all military services.

General Bryan Fenton, the commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, explained the need for upscaling these teams, stating that as battlefields become more challenging and reliant on high-tech solutions, an Air Force pilot, Navy ship driver, cryptologist, or cyber expert may be indispensable. Fenton revealed that the United States is drawing valuable lessons from the experience in Ukraine, primarily through the perspective of their U.K. special operations partners. He emphasized that the British commandos required Royal Air Force pilots for guidance on drone operations and Royal Navy support to navigate the Black Sea effectively.

The primary reason for the personnel cuts stems from the Army's decision to downsize its force by around 24,000 troops and restructure its composition to focus more on large-scale combat operations rather than counterterrorism and counterinsurgency. Additionally, the Army has faced challenges meeting recruitment goals, compelling them to reduce the overall size of their force. Consequently, the Army Special Operations Command, absorbing about 4,000 cuts ordered in the past year and a half, is considering leveraging high-tech skills among recruits.

Major General Patrick Roberson, the deputy commander of the Army Special Operations Command, highlighted the question of whether technical skills can be effectively taught to Green Berets. While he acknowledged the ability to train someone to use a drone, the expertise required for software engineering and drone programming presents a unique challenge.

The cuts to Army special operations forces have not gone unnoticed, with some members of Congress expressing opposition during recent hearings on Capitol Hill. Fenton also pointed out the growing demand for special operations forces around the world and how reducing their numbers will limit the ability to meet those demands.

Over the years, the number of special operations forces and support staff had grown significantly during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, necessitating additional security and logistical support due to their deployment in remote bases. Now, the Pentagon believes a slight reduction in numbers is feasible.

Fenton disclosed that the department had mandated a reduction of approximately 2,000 personnel in special operations about a year and a half ago, including around 750 in the Army. This year, an additional 3,000 cuts have been implemented in Army special operations, to be spread out over the next five years. Fenton indicated that the remaining 1,000 reductions will come from the joint force, including SEALs, Marine raiders, and other Army units.

For Maj. Gen. Roberson, the dilemma lies in determining where to make cuts within the Army troops. He emphasized that cuts serve to focus attention on what is truly important for the future. Redundancies, particularly among trainers and instructors, are being scrutinized, along with potential reductions in psychological operations and civil affairs.

As the United States reflects on 20 years of war, this moment provides an opportunity to assess lessons learned and define future needs. The evolving nature of conflict and advancements in technology demand that special operations forces adapt and integrate specialists to effectively confront emerging challenges.