Special forces

: For the .38 Special album, see Special Forces (album).

History of special forces

Special operations forces have played an important role throughout the history of warfare when the aim has been to achieve disruption by "hit and run" and sabotage, rather than more traditional face to face combat. Other significant roles lay in reconnaissance, providing essential intelligence from close to or among the enemy, and increasingly in combating terrorists, their infrastructure and activities.

Related Topics:
Sabotage - Reconnaissance

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During the Napoleonic wars, rifle and sapper units existed who were not committed to the formal lines that made up most battles of the day. They instead held more specialized roles in reconnaissance and skirmishing.

Related Topics:
Napoleonic wars - Sapper

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The formation of the Bushveldt Carbineers in the Second Boer War may also be seen as an early manifestation of a unit for unconventional warfare.

Related Topics:
Bushveldt Carbineers - Second Boer War

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