Welcome to the Yale Special Operations Conference (SOFCON)

An annual gathering dedicated to fostering dialogue on the evolving challenges and opportunities in global security at Yale University. This conference brings together distinguished leaders, practitioners, and scholars to explore topics at the intersection of strategy, technology, and Special Operations Forces. Through keynote speeches, panel discussions, and collaborative workshops, we aim to inspire innovative solutions and cultivate a deeper understanding of the complexities shaping today’s security landscape.

Join Us

April 9 - 10th, 2025

The Yale Special Operations Conference begins with a welcoming reception on April 9th, setting the stage for a full day of thought-provoking discussions on April 10th. Featuring a dynamic mix of panels and keynote speakers from diverse fields, the event promises to deliver unique insights and foster meaningful dialogue on global security challenges.

this year’s themes

how SOF is translating its lessons learned in contact, on the frontline, into policy and its service-like responsibility

The evolution of SOF’s partnership approach since the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT), emphasizing intelligence sharing, joint exercises, and operational integration changes

the role of technology, and balancing speed with safety in high-stakes situations

The complexities of large-scale hostage recovery operations, including challenges in navigating tunnels and dealing with evasive militants