Special operations or spec ops are military activities conducted, according to NATO, by "specially designated, organized, selected, trained, and equipped forces using unconventional techniques and modes of employment." Special operations may include reconnaissance, unconventional warfare, and counterterrorism, and are ...

What do Special Operations Forces do? Special Operations Forces (SOF) service members are involved in a wide variety of missions ranging from direct combat and counterterrorism to hostage rescue, humanitarian assistance and much more.