MARSOC leaders advocate modernization to enhance US military capabilities against China

The U.S. House Armed Services Committee convened on February 28, 2025, to discuss the critical role of Special Operations Forces (SOF) in great power competition, particularly in relation to countering adversaries like China. The meeting highlighted the importance of modernization and investment in SOF capabilities to maintain a competitive edge.

The session began with a presentation from military leaders emphasizing the need for continued support and investment in Marine Special Operations Command (MARSOC). They outlined three key areas for development: equipping operators with advanced technologies, expanding precision strike capabilities, and investing in personnel training. The leaders stressed that these investments are essential not only for MARSOC but also for enhancing the overall effectiveness of the joint force.

General Braga noted that SOF's trans-regional footprint and established relationships are vital in countering China's influence and maintaining national security. He described SOF as "global sensors" that provide critical intelligence and operational support during both competition and conflict phases. General Connolly echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of long-standing partnerships in the Pacific region, which enable rapid deployment and operational readiness.

Admiral contributions focused on maritime capabilities, emphasizing that the unique access provided by Navy Special Warfare (NSW) forces allows for operations in contested environments, enhancing joint force lethality and survivability. The ability to link sensors with shooters was also underscored, showcasing how SOF can illuminate operational spaces to facilitate joint maneuvers.

The discussion also addressed the increasing demand for SOF support from combatant commanders, with leaders acknowledging challenges in meeting these requests due to resource constraints. They indicated that the number of unmet operational requests is rising, primarily due to the high costs associated with deployments.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical role of Special Operations Forces in modern military strategy, particularly in the context of great power competition. The leaders called for sustained investment to ensure that SOF can effectively counter adversaries and support the broader objectives of the U.S. military. The committee members expressed their commitment to working with military leaders to secure the necessary resources for these initiatives.