Topic: Special Operations Command

The Deloitte & Touche "Global Defense Outlook 2013" report outlines a shift in military strategy toward special operations and cyber warfare. As traditional defense budgets in high-income states decline, the report suggests a "balancing" of security and prosperity. The U.S. Cyber Command, established in 2009, is highlighted as a primary area of investment to exploit the military potential of the digital domain.

Hillary Clinton addressed the Special Operations Command regarding the Quadrennial Diplomacy and Development Review (QDDR). She detailed efforts by the State Department to contest online spaces by altering Al-Qaeda recruitment ads in Yemen. The segment concludes with a description of Clinton being presented with a sword referred to as Excalibur by Admiral McRaven.

The NDAA funds the "Transregional Web Initiative," an $18 million program for the U.S. Special Operations Command to develop websites tailored to influence foreign audiences. The initiative requires measurement mechanisms like Google Analytics to ensure target audiences are reached. The hosts also point out the massive amounts of money allocated for the procurement of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and ammunition.

General Dynamics was awarded a $10 million contract to develop websites for the US Special Operations Command to influence foreign audiences. Simultaneously, the USDA agreed to spend $151 million this year purchasing surplus pork to compensate the industry for losses attributed to the swine flu outbreak.