How do special forces work through local proxy forces during indirect operations?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command training mission — special operations warfare Members of the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command training for water rescue, 2007.

In the context of special operations warfare, indirect operations involve working through local proxies—such as insurgent or partisan groups—to achieve strategic objectives without the direct, kinetic application of force by special forces themselves.1

When operating through these proxies, special forces aim to increase the effectiveness of local insurgent or security forces. These missions are characterized by:

Patience and Time: Unlike direct raids, indirect operations require significant time to yield noticeable effects.1
Economy and Discretion: These missions are conducted as economically as possible and typically with little or no publicity, reflecting the sensitive political nature of the work.1
Strategic Influence: The ultimate goal is to influence the morale, will, and cohesion of a target audience.1

An example of this approach is the United States' support for the Philippine government starting in 2002. By utilizing indirect methods rather than visible, conventional military support, both nations sought to avoid public or political backlash while addressing local insurgent and terrorist threats.1