'Complete Incompetence': Markwayne Mullin Derides Defense Cyber Security Budget Proposal

In the ever-evolving landscape of global security and diplomacy, one term has emerged as a beacon of adaptability and efficiency: the "Soft Community." This innovative concept, which transcends traditional military strategies, has been instrumental in shaping the way we approach international relations in the 21st century.

A Formation Beyond Conventional Boundaries

Mr. Chairman, esteemed members of the committee, let's dive into the brilliance of the Soft Community. It's not just a military formation; it's a mindset that resonates with the dynamism of our era. The Soft Community is about more than just the uniform; it's about the mindset of adaptability and agility that defines modern conflict.

In the pre-9/11 era, our focus was on strategic competition and building relationships with partners and allies worldwide. The Soft Community's integrated deterrence approach has taken this a step further. It's a formation that knows not only the hard skills but also the technology required to deploy around the world at a moment's notice.

A Force Against Terrorism

Now, let's talk about counterterrorism. For over two decades, the Special Operations Command teams, alongside our military, interagency, and global partners, have brought immeasurable value to our nation. They've been at the forefront of disrupting and degrading terrorist networks globally. Names that once struck fear into the hearts of many have been removed from the battlefield, no longer posing a threat to our nation.

This isn't just about military might; it's about crisis response. The Soft Community's ability to deploy forces rapidly and arrive in a country, safeguarding our diplomats and citizens or rescuing them when necessary, is nothing short of remarkable. It's all part of the Special Operations Command's value proposition – a small investment on the budget with a high return on investment.

The Power of Partnerships

Now, let's shift our focus to the partnerships we've cultivated with our allies in Europe. These partnerships have proven to be invaluable, especially in the face of Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine. Our Special Operations teams have played a pivotal role here.

The relationship began with trust-building in the mid-'90s and escalated in 2014 with comprehensive training in resistance and resilience. These skills, initially designed for developing militaries, have been a game-changer for the Ukrainian Special Operations. Their NCOs understand mission command and possess initiative – qualities that have made them an asset to the Ukrainian military as a whole.

What's equally fascinating is our ability to learn from our partners. The Ukrainians' ingenuity in re-engineering battlefield equipment has enriched our knowledge base. This exchange of expertise illustrates how collaboration can lead to mutual growth.

In conclusion, the Soft Community is not just a military formation; it's a paradigm shift in the way we approach global security. It's about being agile, adaptable, and proactive. It's about forming partnerships that transcend borders and learning from each other to enhance our capabilities. As we discuss budgets and investments, it's imperative that we acknowledge the remarkable contributions of the Soft Community and continue to support its endeavors. After all, in the ever-changing world of geopolitics, it's the innovators and adaptors who lead the way. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for your attention to this critical matter.