This paper addresses insights and best practices in achieving synergy between conventional forces and Special Operations Forces (SOF) co-located on the irregular warfare battlefield. We focus integration considerations in those cases where a Joint Task Force (JTF) is formed and SOF is working within the JTF’s Joint Operations Area (JOA). We discuss insights at the theater strategic, operational, and tactical level, and provide education and training recommendations. We do not address insights on integration in the more traditional (conventional) warfare environment because we have not been able to gather sufficient data. However, we believe many of our insights can apply to that environment.

We don’t discuss coalition SOF in detail due to the limited scope of this paper. These important members of the team provide unique capabilities based on their mission sets and national direction. JTF commanders can't simply "outsource" these forces to the JSOTF commander. Instead the joint force commander must build the same levels of trust, confidence, and integration with these highly skilled operators as with the other joint forces.

The paper builds on insights in the July 2008 JWFC publication “Insights and Best Practices on Joint Operations.”1 It is also consistent with the USSOCOM Pub 3-33 Handbook on Conventional and SOF Integration and Interoperability dated September, 2006.2 We strongly recommend use of the USSOCOM Handbook for additional information and tactical level checklists.

The Joint Warfighting Center’s Joint Training Division (JTD) and the USJFCOM Special Operations Command (SOCJFCOM) are afforded the unique opportunity to visit and support joint headquarters worldwide as they prepare for, plan, and conduct operations, and draw out and refine what we term “best practices” to share with others and help inform and shape joint doctrine. Other papers are on Commanders Critical Information Requirements (CCIR), Information Management, Interagency Coordination, and JTF Command and Control (C2).

We want to get your thoughts on this subject. Please pass on your comments, insights, and best practices so that we may share them. Contact the JTD POC for insights and best practices, Mike Findlay at (757) 203-5939 or email at Michael.Findlay.ctr@jfcom.mil. The paper can also be viewed at http://jko.cmil.org/.