Introduction. Special operations may be described as military activities conducted by specially designated@ organized@ trained@ and equipped forces using operational tactics@ techniques@ and modes of employment not standard to conventional forces. These activities are conducted across the spectrum of conflict independently@ integrated with@ or in coordination with operations of conventional forces to achieve political@ military@ informational@ and economic objectives. Politico-military considerations may require low prominence@ covert or discreet techniques@ and the acceptance of a degree of physical and political risk not associated with conventional operations.