ROMAN SPECIAL FORCES AND SPECIAL OPS: Speculatores, Exploratores, Protectores and Areani in the Service of Rome

1-237150

Examines the kinds of special operations conducted by the Romans: tactical scouting ahead of the legions, covert strategic reconnaissance in neighboring states, espionage, assassination or abduction of dissidents and enemies, counter-insurgency, and close protection of Roman officials and commanders. While such missions were frequently executed by ad-hoc units or individuals detailed for that specific mission, the Romans created specialist units. Discusses the role of the Speculatores, Exploratores, Protectores, and Areani. Includes 16 color illustrations.