Why do direct special operations require detailed intelligence and repeated rehearsals?

In the context of special operations warfare, direct operations—which involve the kinetic application of force such as capturing or neutralizing targets—carry significant inherent risks. Because these missions often take place in denied or hostile territory with small teams, tactical failure can result in the death of operators or severe strategic and political humiliation for the nation involved.12

To mitigate these risks and ensure mission success, direct special operations require exceptionally well-trained and well-equipped forces that have exhaustively rehearsed their objectives. These rehearsals are conducted on the basis of long-term and incomparably detailed intelligence—evaluated information regarding the strength, activities, and probable courses of action of opponents. By combining precise intelligence with repeated, rigorous rehearsals, special forces can refine their tactical approaches, solve unconventional problems, and maximize the probability of success in high-stakes environments.234