Why don't we use more Special Forces where they are needed rather than installing a huge and costly footprint?

Question

So, its' really just about the money. I don't disagree. Thanks.

Answer 1

There's a lot more money to be made when you send in tens of thousands of troops rather then a limited number of soldiers who are going to be there anyway.

Answer 2

We do use them where they are needed.

Answer 3

Special Operations Forces are a tool, you don't use a wrench when you need a hammer and vice versa. You can't win wars with SOF alone, those large and costly footprints are often times needed.

SOF is by nature small, living by the doctrine of quality over quantity. For this reason alone, it would be impossible to use SOF to put out every fire.