From Data to Knowledge: Training of Police and Military Special Operations Forces in Systemic Perspective

ABSTRACT Special operations forces regularly take part in strenuous trainings and operations. In the following article and geared toward the German situation, we identify knowledge as the central resource and challenge for furthering the development of police and military special operations forces. While the complex requirements of deployment and training create a strong need for knowledge, the reference of special operations forces to science not only provides solutions but also poses potential problems. By presenting proposals for medium- and long-term solutions for organizational knowledge management, this article provides orientation for the further development for (inter-)national special operations forces in the police and military sector.