Fake It till You Make It? Representation of Special Operations Forces Capabilities in Jihadist Propaganda Videos

Daniel Koehler

Studies in Conflict and Terrorism, 2023, vol. 46, issue 5, 541-558

Abstract: Jihadist propaganda videos depicting training camps and combat scenes have steadily increased in variety and quality over the years. A small number of these videos attempt to mimic Special Operation Forces (SOF)’s tactics and skills. This subset of jihadist propaganda might go beyond a mere attempt to show prowess and reveal actual operational capabilities. This article analyzes three exemplary jihadist propaganda videos depicting claimed SOF capabilities through expert reviews with active service SOF personnel to assess the actual tactical quality of the content shown. It also discusses the potential reasons for those groups to mimic SOF and implications for counterterrorism.

Date: 2023
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DOI: 10.1080/1057610X.2020.1780014

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