Military theories regarding surprise has a conceptual way of being described which may influence the effect that surprise actually has on a specific command level. Without sufficient explanations there might be unclear reasons for the conversion of these theories into practice.
The existing research shows an increased possibility of surprise within the strategical command level and how to achieve it. It also shows the absence of research regarding what causes surprise on tactical command level, even if some theories describe surprise as being more effective at that level. Special operations can be included within the tactical command level and may offer an explanation. This case study examines which causes may lead to surprise on a tactical command level by analyzing descriptions of special operations within the conduct of regular warfare.
With theoretical and empirical references, surprise was achieved in both of the selected cases. The results of the study can be divided in to two categories: the direct and the indirect causes. The categorization gives a further explanation in how to better understand surprise within a specific command level. The study contributes to the existing research by revealing a better understanding for commanders within a tactical command level in how to achieve surprise.