The Brazilian Special Operation Forces to the Benefit of the Basic Task of Air Control

Abstract

Special Operations (Op Esp) are one of the most efficient kinds of military operation. They contradict conventional military employment because they use forces composed of small teams to reach goals against an opponent stationed on fortified bases. This research aims to analyze how the Brazilian Special Operations Forces (FOpEsp) contribute to the Basic Task of Air Control. The work is important, since the employment of these troops has increased considerably nowadays. In order to reach the goal of this study, the possibilities and limitations of the Op Esp for the completion of its tasks have been identified, and examples related to this subject were analyzed considering their impacts on some conflicts. As for the methodology, the data collection was based on bibliographical and documentary researches, and the data were treated analytically and provided the theoretical foundation for the definition of Op Esp and the conclusion of this work, which was based on the views of McRaven (1996). During the data analysis, it became clear that the suggested hypothesis had been corroborated, that is, that the Op Esp, with their unconventional methods based on a specific doctrine, when properly employed, may contribute in a decisive manner to the Control of the Air, acting directly upon the Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SDAI) and other targets of interest to the friendly Aerospace Power.