Special forces have often been recognised by their flexibility and their ability to adapt to the constant changes of warfare. Their ability to develop and incorporate new tactics and new technologies make the special forces a valuable resource for decision makers. Furthermore, the aspect of innovation has become more important in regular warfare. Battlefields are constantly evolving with new complex technology, meaning that troops and units must adapt. This study aims to understand how innovation in special forces can contribute to successful operations. With the help of McRaven’s theory on relative superiority, innovation is analysed using all McRaven’s six principles. In this study innovation is defined as ingenuity – the ability to find creative solutions.
Innovation is considered a vital aspect for special operations and may even be seen as an operational asset, despite that Operation Gunnerside and Operation Neptune Spear were carried out at different decades. This study presents that innovation plays an important role in each of McRaven’s six principles on relative superiority. Furthermore, this study evaluates innovations and improvements of existing gear and how it could contribute to mission success, like advanced helicopter technology and redesigned charges, for its specific purpose, by contributing to simplicity, speed and surprise.