The Global Special Operations Forces network from a partner-nation perspective

Abstract

The purpose of this capstone project is to provide recommendations to Norwegian Special Operations Command (NORSOCOM) and Swedish Special Operations Command (SWESOCOM) on how to utilize and contribute to the U.S. Special Operations Command´s Global Special Operations Forces Network initiative. The project explains social network theory, analyzes the GSN, and suggests how NORSOCOM and SWESOCOM can manage their GSN membership. The research extends to include potential aspirations of a national network. The GSN effort is a thoroughly well-thought-out concept nested in U.S. strategy. USSOCOM’s leadership in the GSN can be described as informal, cooperative, and communicative with partner nations and agencies. The network has no alliance-like requirements, which makes membership for partner nations low cost. NORSOCOM and SWESOCOM have been forward-thinking, and are well positioned for an evolving GSN. However, from a network perspective, further actions are required to counter expected challenges and to utilize the membership more effectively. The national commands should inform national stakeholders to build support, establish national network managers, and participate in burden sharing. The GSN membership can provide the policy level with an alternative security cooperation forum that has access to information and resources. The GSN membership should be leveraged to enhance national networks.