This volume undertakes a systematic analysis of the relationship between Special Forces and contemporary strategy, explaining the resurgence of interest in Special Forces, particularly in the West, by exploring their appeal over traditional conventional force options in the current ‘War on Terror’.

Special Forces, Terrorism and Strategy comprises four overarching themes:

• theory and practice


• command and control


• culture and technology


• operations and the ‘War on Terror’.

By developing a credible theory about the role of Special Forces in contemporary strategy, Alastair Finlan assesses the changing character of the relationship between conventional forces and Special Forces, illustrating the prominent role of these forces in the ‘War on Terror’.

This book will be of great interest to students of strategic studies and military history, as well as for professional military colleges.