I was just curious whats the point of having so many groups with similar training and similar goals when they go out for missions. GB's are like Delta Boys and Delta boys are like Devgru and Devgru is similar to the SEALs and Rangers like Force Recon just like to blow everything up. What's the point of having so many special forces?
There are different forces, because each one has a very distinct specialty. And to an outsider that does not understand the differences, they probably all "look the same". But just like a Mustang is different from a Cadillac, which is different from a Citroen, which is different from a Fiat, which is different from a Hummer, (they all have an internal combustion engine, 4 wheels, and drive down roads) each Special Operations group is very different.
Green Berets actually specialize in training and operating with indiginous forces. Their main task is acutally as a "Force Multiplier", training and advising local forces. In this way, a small group can advise a much larger group, so for the investment of a Company worth of US troops, you get the effective might of a Division.
Rangers are the Army's "Shock Troops". Their specialty is taking difficult locations, with little support and holding it. They operate with organic support, and normally in advance of a much larger unit (division size or larger).
Seals are a multi-function Naval SOC. Their original purpose was and is to operate as part of "Underwater Demolitions", either destroying enemy vessels and port and support facilities, or guarding against such actions against our own forces. They also operate as a reconnaissance force, checking for obsticals and mines, tides, water depth, and forces inland of proposed landing beaches. They also scout for ports and other facilities that may be needed.
Force Recon fulfills a combination of Ranger and Seal tasks, but for the Marine Corps. They will either work in advance of a larger unit operating as a rreconnaissance unit, or they will open up avenues of approach for a Division sized force or smaller. While capable of fighting, their job is perfectly performed if they do their job without ever being detected.
And all Marine Infantry units are considered to be "Special Operations Capable". This is because they are all highly cross-trained in many forms of what is considered to be "Special Operations" functions. These include amphibious assaults, jungle warfare, mountain warfare, desert warfare, arctic warfare, helicopter assault, and operating in small numbers (frequently Company sized). And in 2005, 2 "MARSOC Battalions" were formed, that fulfill many tasks similar to the Green Berets, but specializing in training other Marine or "Naval Infantry" units.
And you also have several Air Force SOC units that are very specialized. Pararescue is dedicated to the rescue and recovery of downed pilots and crew. Combat Control Teams work as pathfinders, dropping behind enemy lines and setting up either advance air bases before any other forces arrive, or guiding in aircraft for bombing and strike missions.
Each of these groups however though is highly specialized. Green Berets are not trained to perform the duty of Pararescue or Combat Control Teams. And Rangers are not trained to do the job of SEALS. Force Recon is not trained to operate in the way that Green Berets are.
