Book Description

1. Purpose and Scope a. This manual provides guidance in Special Forces and unconventional warfare operations for commanders and staffs at all levels. The basic concepts of unconventional warfare are presented in a manner designed to acquaint the reader with Special Forces organization, concepts, and methods of operations to fulfill the Army's responsibility for the conduct of unconventional warfare. b. Thorough understanding of the ideas established within this manual will prepare the commander and staff officers for subsequent decisions and staff actions which affect special forces planning and operations. c. Detailed methods and techniques of Special Forces operations are discussed below. Classified information pertaining to all levels of Special Forces operations is found in FM 31-21A. 2. Definition of Unconventional Warfare Unconventional warfare consists of the interrelated fields of guerrilla warfare, evasion and escape, and subversion against hostile states (resistance). Unconventional warfare operations are conducted in enemy or enemy controlled territory by predominately indigenous personnel usually supported and directed in varying degrees by an external source. 3. Delineation of Responsibilities for Unconventional Warfare a. The responsibility for certain of these activities has been delegated to the service having primary concern. Guerrilla warfare is the responsibility of the United States Army. b. Within certain designated geographic areas-called guerrilla warfare operational areas-the United States Army is responsible for the conduct of all three interrelated fields of activity as they affect guerrilla warfare operations.