Recent conflicts have shown signs of increased operational usage of Special Operation Forces, conducting qualified missions of great strategical importance. However, the field of theoretical understanding within the subject suffers from limitations in scientifically based studies. Which aims to explain how special operations succeed on a strategical level. Although several researchers agree on the need for further studies within the subject, there are uncertainties whether theory should be developed upon classical or modern principles of war. Adam Leong Kok Wey has constructed a theoretical framework, in which eight historically rooted principles within special operations are presented. Wey claims that classical principles of war can be used to explain how modern special operations succeed. This study has been conducted in order to test whether Wey’s principles can explain the result of two contemporary cases. The result shows that all of the eight principles were present during the successful Operation Neptune Spear, whilst all but one was absent during the failed Bravo Two-Zero mission. Conclusions from this study can be drawn, which suggests an increase in explanatory power of Wey’s theoretical framework. Furthermore, suggesting that contemporary special operations theory can be developed upon classical principles of war.

Recent studies have shown an increased relevancy for special operations warfare. Special operations have been acclaimed as a cost beneficial means of achieving strategic ends. Although this is the case there is a significant lack in the realm of contemporary special operations theory. Operation Barrasin 2000 and Operation Neptune Spear in 2011 have both been renowned for being daring, well conducted but foremost successful. Nevertheless, thorough research of these operations signals their absence. This study contributes to the field by examining these two successful special operations through the lens of a theoretical framework, based on prominent special operations theorists, in order to determine what principles led to their prosperity. Although a majority of the theoretical principles could be recognised in both operations, not all of these were beneficial to the outcome. The results have shown that the principles of strategic and political comprehension, technology, practice, intelligence, personal commitment and speed mainly contributed to success. Conclusions also show that the principle of intelligence could be considered superior to the other principles. This conclusion is drawn due to the fact that accurate intelligence enabled several of the other principles, for example practice and strategic and political comprehension.