World | Afghanistan war Elite US Forces Take Bigger Role in Afghanistan Navy Seals, Army's Delta Force make gains against top militants By John Johnson Posted Dec 26, 2009 12:54 PM CST Copied Marines take part in a mission in the Garmsir district of Helmand province, southern Afghanistan, Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2009. (AP Photo/Kevin Frayer) Elite US military units are taking on a larger role in the hunt for the most dangerous Taliban militants in Afghanistan. Navy Seals and the Army's Delta Force have had enough success over the past few months that their operations will be expanded next year, reports the New York Times. US commanders say the special ops forces carry out some of the risky and crucial missions in the country. Specifically, the commandos have made gains against the network of Sirajuddin Haqqani, described by Eric Schmitt of the Times as the most powerful Taliban in eastern Afghanistan. The units' missions are vital in buying time for the buildup of conventional forces and the training of Afghan troops. “They are extremely effective in the areas where we are focused,” said one US official. Read These Next Horrific tragedy reported at Rob Reiner's house. Rob Reiner's son has been arrested after murder of his parents. Police interviewing family member after deaths of Rob Reiner, wife. The Reiners murders and arrest have called attention to a 2015 film. Report an error