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Following the 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001 special operations gained increased prominence as strategic tools for addressing asymmetric threats. The attacks also initiated a manhunt for the responsible terrorist leader, Osama bin Laden. Operation Neptune Spear, conducted by United States special operations forces in 2011, culminated the manhunt with bin Laden’s elimination. However, the operation faced significant challenges, including unconfirmed intelligence on bin Laden’s presence and a helicopter crash. Therefore, this study aims to enhance understanding of tactical success during Operation Neptune Spear by applying McRaven’s theory of special operations and Spulak’s theory regarding operator characteristics. It further it seeks to contribute to the field of special operations, which have received growing scholarly attention, although research focusing on tactical level remain limited. 

The study adopts a qualitative single-case study design, with data collected through qualitative text analysis of secondary sources and a firsthand interview. The theories were operationalized into analytical questions concerning planning, preparation, and execution phases. The findings demonstrate that the principles of security, purpose, creativity and partially simplicity, surprise, speed, and repetition had a positive effect on the success. Conversely, flexibility did not affect the outcome. In conclusion, the study contributes to understanding tactical success during Operation Neptune Spear and highlights the need for further theoretical development for a holistic perspective of special operations.